Formula E World Champion Wehrlein after Gen3 Evo tests: "Traction control is constantly being improved"

After two years with the same hardware, the manufacturers in Formula E are currently working at full speed on their powertrains for the update to the current Gen3 cars, known as "Gen3 Evo". World champion Pascal Wehrlein has also already completed test kilometres with the enhanced Porsche powertrain and confirms that the new car has significantly improved performance.

This summer, the manufacturers in Formula E have the opportunity to have a new powertrain homologated for the electric series. At the same time, some changes to the technical regulations will come into force, which will require adjustments to both the hardware and the software if they want to be competitive in the next two seasons.

"Evolution instead of revolution," is how Pascal Wehrlein describes the Gen3 Evo version of the Porsche 99X Electric, which he has already been able to test on several days, when asked by e-Formula.news. He noticed a significant improvement each time. "Of course, we improve the car every time and bring updates to the car to make it faster."

"The biggest differences are of course the all-wheel drive, the softer tyres and a little bit of the aerodynamics, the bodywork," says Wehrlein. The revised bodywork in particular, including the redesigned front wing, are noticeable when driving - the car has a different balance to its predecessor. "Those are the three main differences. Then there is the software development for the (fast-charging) pit stop. There are a few changes, but not too many in the end."

Traction control in Formula E

"In terms of performance, it will make a difference of around three to four seconds (per lap)," he continues.

For the first time in Formula E history, a technical device will be permitted in the coming season that uses electronics to prevent the tyres from spinning. However, this only applies to the period in which the front motor is used for acceleration - i.e. the duel phase in qualifying, the start of the race and in attack mode.

"The traction control for the all-wheel drive is being developed and is of course constantly being improved," Wehrlein explains. "As traction control is not yet permitted, we have to invest a lot of work in it. We also need to find out how it works with the front engine, as it is not developed by us but comes as spec car from a manufacturer. So we have to see how we can optimise the balance."

At the beginning of November, the public will have their first opportunity to see the teams' "Gen3 Evo" cars at the official pre-season tests in Valencia. The race debut will take place on 7 December in Sao Paulo.