Formula E introduces mid-race charging called Pit Boost for Season 11

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is set to introduce a groundbreaking new feature in Season 11. Dubbed the Pit Boost, this feature will debut at the Jeddah E-Prix in Saudi Arabia on Feb 14,15th and will provide teams with ultra fast charging for a period of 30 seconds.

Pit Boost will not replace Attack Mode.

What is Pit Boost?

This will provide a 10 per cent energy increase, equivalent to 3.85kWh, to Formula E cars through a 30-second ultra-fast recharge. This charge will take place during a mandatory pit stop at select races in the Formula E calendar. Using 600kW charging speed, far exceeding the capabilities of current consumer chargers, this stop involves a 34-second stationary pit stop to top up the battery.

Discussing the impact of this feature, Alberto Longo, co-founder and chief championship officer of Formula E, emphasized that this innovation would increase the strategic elements of racing. He believes that the introduction of Pit Boost will prevent races from becoming too predictable, adding drama and unpredictability that will appeal to fans worldwide.

“We always position the fan at the front of everything we do,” said Longo. “This innovation will introduce an exciting new element to our races, with different teams utilizing the Pit Boost at different moments. The strategy here can make or break a team’s race, and that kind of jeopardy is what keeps fans on the edge of their seats.”

Teams will only be allowed to deploy one car at a time.

The tech behind it

The 600kW charging system is the result of years of development and testing, both by manufacturers and in race environments. Pablo Martino, head of the Formula E Championship from the FIA highlighted that this innovation has been in the works since Season 9, with manufacturers playing a key role in its development. The system has been rigorously tested at recent races, including events in Madrid, Sao Paulo, and Mexico, to ensure its reliability. “We’ve tested the system extensively,” said Martino. “It’s reliable, it’s efficient, and it’s going to create a new dimension of excitement in the championship. And importantly, it’s mandatory for all teams — they have to use it during the race.”

Porsche 99X Electric.

Strategic impact on racing

Pit Boost introduces a host of tactical considerations that could alter the course of a race. Teams will only be allowed to deploy one car at a time, ensuring that pit stops won’t occur simultaneously, thus adding another layer of complexity to their strategy. Only two pit crew members are permitted to work on the car during the stop, with a third crew member specifically assigned to stop and release the car. This adds additional pressure on pit crews to execute the stop with precision.

Teams will have to carefully weigh the benefits of an energy boost against the risk of losing valuable track position. Choosing the perfect moment to take the charge will be crucial, and success will depend on how well teams adapt to this strategic element. Longo added, “Teams are going to be under immense pressure to get it right. The timing of when they take Pit Boost could determine the entire outcome of the race. The potential for dramatic overtakes, sudden twists, and last-minute gambles will keep everyone on the edge of their seats.”

Questions were raised about its future beyond this season. Will it become a permanent feature, and could it eventually replace other popular elements of the race, such as Attack Mode? According to Longo, the answer is clear: Pit Boost and Attack Mode are complementary rather than competing technologies. “There’s no chance that Pit Boost will replace Attack Mode,” Longo confirmed. “Attack Mode has been a fantastic addition to our races, and it’s not going anywhere. If anything, we’re looking at ways to make Attack Mode even faster and more exciting in the future.”

Nissan Formula E race car.

Showcasing EV innovation

For Formula E, Pit Boost isn’t just a new tool for enhancing race strategy — it’s a statement about the league’s significance in EV mobility. The 600kW ultra-fast charging technology it employs demonstrates the series’ role as a testing ground for the future of EVs. By showcasing the potential for rapid charging, Formula E continues to bridge the gap between motorsport and real-world applications, providing insights that could accelerate the adoption of EVs by addressing key challenges, such as charging speed. Longo highlighted this aspect, “One of Formula E’s core missions is to create a direct link between what happens on the racetrack and what can be translated to road vehicles. Pit Boost is a perfect example of that. We’re demonstrating what’s possible in terms of charging technology, and how innovations developed in Formula E can help shape the future of consumer EVs.”

India's first Formula E race, the 2023 Hyderabad E-Prix.

Safety and reliability

The FIA maintains that the feature has undergone extensive testing and simulation to ensure it’s not only exciting but also safe. Strict protocols have been developed to govern its deployment, including limits on when and how it can be used. Marek Nawarecki, senior circuit sport director at the FIA, said “Pit Boost represents the next step in electric mobility innovation. By incorporating cutting-edge technology into our racing format, we are continuing to push the envelope on what’s possible. This feature underscores the FIA’s commitment to developing advanced race-to-road technologies, and it will certainly add an exciting new dimension to Formula E.”

Both Longo and Martino reassured teams that they have taken every step to ensure the reliability of the Pit Boost system. Extensive testing has shown that the system is ready for race conditions, and any issues that do arise — such as a car not charging properly due to human error — will only add to the drama of the race.

“We’ve got full protocols in place in case anything doesn’t go to plan, but so far, the system has been working flawlessly,” Longo said. “The human element will always be part of racing, and that’s something we’ve embraced with this new feature. We want to see how teams and drivers adapt to the new challenges Pit Boost presents.”

Porsche Formula E Team, Porsche 99X Electric.

Debuting at the Jeddah E-Prix

Fans will get their first taste of this feature during the Jeddah E-Prix on February 14,15th. Longo shared his excitement about the debut, “Jeddah is the perfect stage for Pit Boost to make its debut. It’s a track that’s already known for its high-speed, action-packed races, and Pit Boost will take that drama to the next level. We’ve worked hard to ensure that this feature not only enhances the sporting spectacle but also reflects our commitment to advancing electric vehicle technology.”

Formula E’s introduction of Pit Boost in Season 11 is set to revolutionise the race-day experience. With its debut at the Jeddah E-Prix, fans can expect heightened drama, intense strategy, and exciting new challenges for drivers and teams alike. By combining race strategy with pioneering ultra-fast EV charging technology, Formula E is once again making racing exciting and fun for the viewers.