One of the revelations was the car they will use for campaign eight, which, besides some changes to its lettering, has received software updates regarding Nyck de Vries’ version for 2021, as the grid must adapt to a power increase of 20 kW for race mode during the last season of the Gen2 regulations. 

The revision of the homologation regulations ensures that the Silver Arrow 02, led by former Renault Formula 1 technician Nick Chester and Mercedes KERS architect Pierre Godof, remains in place. 

A Farewell with no Certainties

2022 will be an atypical year within the team, since uncertainty reigns ahead of the departure, although rumors indicate that the structure could be sold and continue into Formula E under another name. In the meantime, Stoffel Vandoorne and de Vries will remain as regular drivers, despite the fact that the latter was linked to Williams Formula 1 after the departure of George Russell. Where changes will take place is in the engineering staff.

Read also: The Valencia Test offered hints of the rivals to beat in Formula E’s “Season Eight”

Mercedes director, Ian James, assured that the competitiveness and focus on being favorites will not change despite being on the back foot in Formula E. “We know how close this championship is and how strong the rivals are. It’s going to be another tough battle to the end.” 

He admitted that they always have pressure because of the challenges managed within the squad, but highlighted the hard work put in by all the staff, which shows the hunger that still exists to win.

From the technical side, Mercedes explains that they are in a position to make further developments in the configuration and mapping to have control of the systems and develop the software internally, without neglecting other important aspects such as the performance of the tires.

Written by I Jhonattan González

The post Mercedes’ Novelties on their Farewell to Formula E appeared first on Green Racing News.

In the three test days, different drivers showed dominance with excellent displays at the helm of the electric single-seaters. On the first day, Envision Racing representative, Robin Frijns, won against the DS Techeetahs of Jean-Eric Vergne and Antonio Felix da Costa.

The Dutchman set the pace with a best lap of 1m26.968s in the afternoon session to beat Vergne by 0.173s, while da Costa was just 0.002 behind his teammate.

Related content: The Most Efficient Car in the World! Formula E Introduces Third-Generation Vehicle

The best time was eight seconds slower than the time set on the first day of testing last year, as on this visit Formula E ran on a 240-meter longer track.

The Champions dominated the Second Day

During the next day of testing, Stoffel Vandoorne and Mercedes were the ones who struck an authoritative blow to show why they are the champion team. Vandoorne’s time, a 1m26.045s, was not the only good thing for the team, which saw its star driver, Nick de Vries, finish fourth, just one tenth of a second behind.

Venturi finished second with Edoardo Mortara, while third place went to Andretti with Jake Dennis. Pascal Wehrlein completed the Top 5 with Porsche.

Final Day

The test was closed on Thursday, December 2 and Edoardo Mortara, who finished only seven points behind champion Nyck de Vries on season seven, set the best time with 1m25.763s. This allowed him to finish the day four hundredths of a second ahead of the next fastest driver, Jean-Eric Vergne.

Stoffel Vandoorne’s Mercedes set the third fastest time of the day, while Mitch Evans’ Jaguar Racing beat Porsche driver Pascal Wehrlein in the fight for fourth.

These results seem a clear indicator that last season’s dominators will be the rivals to beat in 2022. Mercedes champions de Vries and Vandoorne want to see off the team in style, while Mortara wants to get rid of the thorn that left him very close to the throne.

Although the aforementioned drivers start as favorites, it should be remembered that last year Formula E had up to seven different E-Prix winners, so the same level of competitiveness is expected in the tournament that is about to begin.

It will be next January 28 when Saudi Arabia will once again become the initial venue for the electric single-seater series, which is becoming more and more popular among fans and comes with more races, incredible urban circuits and a new, more attractive format for spectators.

Written by I Jhonattan González

The post The Valencia Test offered hints of the rivals to beat in Formula E’s “Season Eight” appeared first on Green Racing News.

Volkswagen

The Volkswagen ID. Life is a small electric car that is giving a lot to talk about because of its futuristic square shape. Mechanically, it has 400 kilometers of autonomy and is expected to be on the streets by 2025.

Smart

The brand expects to increase sales through an electric SUV called Concept Smart #1, which stands out for its slim bodywork, resembling a Mini Cooper, although totally different and with great driving aids.

Renault

The Renault Megane e-Tech was seen in Munich with total robustness, mechanically equipped with two power options for its electrified engine. The first offers 130 horsepower, and the second, 218 horsepower, with a range of 300 to 470 kilometers on a single battery charge.

Porsche

Luxury and comfort are characteristics transmitted by Porsche. However, this time they highlighted the aggressiveness of the Mission R, a fully electrified racing vehicle with physical aspects similar to the 911, promising to be the brand’s future at the different competitions it is involved in.

Mercedes

Mercedes was one of the brands bringing the latest news on sustainable vehicles to Munich. Two concepts have been revealed to catch everyone’s attention:Mercedes-Maybach EQS serves as the first of them, being a luxury SUV next to the Mercedes EQG Concept, the future of the G-Class.

On the other hand, the plug-in hybrid variant was not far behind thanks to the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance and its 843 horsepower. Also, the EQE, EQB and AMG EQS were on display.

Great Wall

Models such as the Ora Cat (100% electric with a range of 400 kilometers and 171 horsepower) and Wey Coffe (plug-in hybrid SUV with 150 kilometers of range and 475 horsepower) are ready to arrive in Europe, competing against established manufacturers and earning their place among customers’ choices.

Cupra

Cupra showed plans to be 100% electric by 2030. One of the steps to achieve this goal is the UrbanRebel model, an urban vehicle with a racing feel due to its aerodynamic shape and striking rear spoiler, scheduled to hit the market in 2025.

Audi

More than 700 kilometers of autonomy were shown through the Audi Grandsphere Concept, revealing what is projected to be the future of the brand of the four rings with a completely aggressive and elegant design.

BMW

A projection of what cars will be like in 2040 has been part of BMW’s venture in Munich. The i Vision Circular has a daring design, as if it were a smaller Cybertruck, which will be made of recyclable materials for reuse at the end of its useful life and contribute to a more sustainable path.

Written by | Ronald Ortega

The post IAA Mobility 2021: Hybrids and Electric Cars Take Over Munich appeared first on Green Racing News.

After the announcements from high-caliber manufacturers, such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes itself, the boss believes more than just a defeat, it is an opportunity to repackage and start a new path.

“Disruptions always offer opportunities for change. At first glance, of course, it’s unfortunate that three premium manufacturers are pulling out all at once, but perhaps Formula E just needs a reboot to take the next step. Other teams, possibly privateers, will grow because they will become the center of attention,” Wolff told the British press.

Related content: Norman Nato on the Edge: Di Grassi could replace him at Venturi Racing

Mercedes joined the Formula E grid in 2019, and had relatively quick success when Nyck de Vries won the 2020-21 Drivers’ Championship. But unlike their Formula 1 efforts, however, that title will not become the starting point for sustained FE glory, in the executive’s view, and so they confirmed that they will leave the series after season eight.

Formula E has been referred to as the future of motorsport in recent years, but Mercedes feels that Formula 1 is better suited to the development of its electric vehicles.

Family Competition

Toto’s wife, Susie Wolff, is team boss of Venturi Racing in Formula E. Ironically, it was De Vries who beat Edoardo Mortara, driving for Susie’s team.

The Mercedes manager pointed out, however, that the on-track rivalry did not generate discord at home. “No, not at all. In fact, we went on vacation together and enjoyed the family time,” he said.

“Of course we were very happy with the title, but Edoardo Mortara not only became runner-up, but Susie’s other driver, Norman Nato, also won the last race in Berlin. That has to be considered at least an equal success,” he added.

Written by I Jhonattan González

The post Mercedes CEO: Team Exit is an Opportunity for Formula E to Redefine the Competition appeared first on Green Racing News.

According to reports from the Dutch sports press, the driver could leave the electric category to join Formula 1, no less. Early in his career, De Vries won the Formula 2 title in 2019 and was aiming to participate in the Grand Circus, but was unable to reach an agreement with any team.

Formula E was his consolation, with Mercedes opening their doors to him, and only during his second season, he conquered the glory. Now, with the championship in hand, the Dutchman seems to have several pretenders that could lead him to fulfill his dream. 

Related content: Lucas di Grassi and Formula E are One and the Same

One of them is the manufacturer for whom he races for in the electric series. His director, Toto Wolff, has expressed his possible interest in taking him to the big leagues of motorsport. Also, other teams that have assessed the possibility of having De Vries include Williams. The team would reportedly be happy to give him the opportunity for 2022.

Pride and Future Analysis

De Vries’ triumph put him on an uncertain position regarding his future in motorsport. The Netherlands-born driver is torn between staying with Formula E to defend his title with Mercedes, or launching into the Formula 1 arena.

“In motorsport it’s all about performance, that’s the only way I can influence on my racing career; only then I can open doors and strengthen my chances. Is Formula 1 closer now? As long as I get results, doors will open, and winning a Championship obviously contributes to that.”

Regarding the interest expressed by F1 manufacturers, De Vries said: “I have read some of the messages and listened to what the Mercedes team boss said. Those are beautiful words. Honestly, I don’t know what’s going to happen now.”

Although he has to prepare for the next challenges, there is still time for the driver to make a decision about what he will do in 2022, since Formula E starts in January, while F1 starts in March.

Written by I Jhonattan González

The post De Vries: Defend Formula E title or move up to Formula 1? appeared first on Green Racing News.

Mercedes director Ian James noted that negotiations were ongoing with Formula E, however revealed that they were awaiting “clarification” on “important details about the structure of the series” and that for that reason it had been delayed registration.

Now Mercedes has made the decision to register as a manufacturer with the FIA ​​to advance its development work with Gen3 standards.

“We have signed our option as a manufacturer for Gen3 which means we can start important development work by taking part in the meetings between the FIA, the rights holder and the manufacturers,” said a Mercedes representative.

It may also interest you: Eriksson will debut in Formula E in the absence of Muller in Puebla

It should be mentioned that even with the signing of the German brand, it does not guarantee that the team will participate in the electric series in the future since they will also be evaluating the strategies of Formula E.

Consequences of not joining

The FIA ​​introduced a registration and homologation fee of € 300,000 per season, which a manufacturer would have to pay for the remainder of the cycle if it left early.

Originally, a flexible deadline was set for March 31 for manufacturers to commit to Gen3 regulations and gain access to this data, with Mahindra, DS Automobiles, Porsche, Nissan, NIO and Jaguar all signed up. Furthermore, Audi and BMW will exit the championship at the end of the season.

That delay had prevented Mercedes from accessing FIA data from providers Gen3 Spark Racing Technology (chassis), Williams Advanced Engineering (battery) and Hankook (tires).

Suppliers ready for testing

Spark Racing Technology is ready to begin testing the new Hankook tires and installing them on a car equivalent in speed to current Gen2 machines. In addition, the body kit report has also been sent to three design houses to design the look of the new cars.

Written by | Gabriel Sayago

The post Mercedes signs option to begin Gen3 Formula E rules development appeared first on Green Racing News.

TeamViewer will provide both teams with remote connectivity solutions to lower carbon emissions and new technology to optimize work between the track and the teams’ bases.

TeamViewer’s technology, which recently signed a deal to become the main sponsor of soccer giants Manchester United later this year, will also be used by Mercedes for industrial purposes.

In return, TeamViewer will receive branding on the manufacturer’s Formula 1 and Formula E cars and race suits, beginning from each series’ upcoming races in Monaco.

It may also interest you: This is the Mini Electric Pacesetter, Formula E’s new ‘safety car’

“By working together across Formula 1 and Formula E, we can drive gains in technology performance, and we will help optimize remote operations for many companies across the globe,” said Mercedes-Benz Motorsport chief executive, Toto Wolff.

“In addition to our own ambitions in terms of sustainability, we are convinced that the growth of companies like TeamViewer will make a meaningful difference to CO2 emissions on a much greater scale. I’m excited to welcome them to the team – and looking forward to seeing their brand enter the global stage with our Monaco races in May.”

Written by | Gabriel Sayago

The post Mercedes’ F1 and Formula E teams sign TeamViewer partnership appeared first on Green Racing News.

It is important to mention the deadline passed on 31 March for manufacturers to confirm their long-term future in the series with the new regulations running between the 2022-23 and 2025-26 seasons.

Formula E will still accept signatures beyond this date, but entries submitted after the deadline are expected to receive later access to the FIA’s bank of data from Gen3 parts suppliers Spark Racing Technology, Williams Advanced Engineering and Hankook.

Mercedes-EQ is expected to sign up for the Gen3 regulations that will create 120kg lighter cars with the equivalent of 470bhp. Nevertheless, team has chosen to delay the formal agreement.

It may also interest you: Formula E: Nissan delays the use of its new powertrain

A statement supplied to Autosport says: “Whilst recent discussions relating to key topics such as the implementation of a cost cap for Formula E have been largely positive, there are still important details regarding the structure of the series which are in clarification.

“For this reason, the decision has been taken to delay our registration to enable these points to be finalised.”

Mercedes is now planning a sizable restructure of its Formula E programme at the end of the current 2021 season that will consolidate the race team operations in Brackley, UK.

Should be noted that four manufacturers announced their long-term commitment to Formula E prior to the 31 March deadline, with Mahindra the first to pledge its ongoing participation. It was shortly followed by DS Automobile, partner to race team Techeetah, and Nissan then Porsche.

It is likely that Dragon Penske Autosport is ready to commit also, having agreed a multi-season technical partnership with Bosch, which itself will build a Gen3 powertrain.

Similarly, the NIO 333 concern has recently announced an alliance with the Gusto Group, Team executive director Alex Hui said: “For the next stage of the 333 Racing Formula E long term project I would like to bring the knowledge of electric racing back into the Chinese motorsport and automotive market.”

Written by | Gabriel Sayago

The post Mercedes-EQ awaits “clarification” about regulations before its commitment to Formula E Gen3 appeared first on Green Racing News.

In 2019-2020 Mercedes finished on the podium of the competition which was a great start for the their debut season. For 2020-21 German manufacturers will start the campaign with a highly evolved powertrain.

Ian James, Mercedes EQ Formula E team director pointed out the team’s new car is an “evolution” of the Silver Arrow 01 from last season, but with major changes.

“Conceptually, is an evolution,” he said. “But there isn’t really any component part we haven’t touched and redesigned and gone at again.

“That’s really born from the fact that when you’re working that concept, we had started on the season seven power unit before we’d even turned a wheel in anger in season six.

“You’re laying out that groundwork really very early on. So it is a completely new power unit that we’re bringing for season seven.”

Read also: Riders ready to sparkle in the MotoE 2021 season

Last season Mercedes’ mistakes

Despite the good finish in 2019-2020, Mercedes suffered reliability errors, centered on Nyck de Vries’ car. The young Dutch rider could not get on the podium in Santiago de Chile due to a battery problem and in Mexico he had a brake system failure.

De Vries who also suffered mechanical problems in Marrakech and in the second of six races at the Berlin ePrix. A situation on which Ian James has spoken.

“We have to focus on being more effective in our second season. We have a strong protocol when it comes to dealing with failures, be they technical or operational errors. It is vitally important that we all speak honestly about what happened last season, as it allows us that the mistakes we have made do not happen again. Our rookie year is behind us and that no longer serves as an excuse. We need to reduce mistakes and we cannot make the same mistake twice, that’s clear. We trust our package for 2021, so if we can eliminate those mistakes we are in a good position.”

The post The things to improve for Mercedes to win the Formula E Championship this year appeared first on Green Racing News.