The Formula 1 paddock is grappling with a significant shift in its technical regulations, increasingly mirroring the electric-focused approach of Formula E. But according to Alberto Longo, co-founder and Chief Championship Officer of Formula E, this move is misguided. Longo believes F1 should remain true to its core principles rather than attempting to emulate its all-electric counterpart. The debate centers on the growing electrical component within F1’s power units, now accounting for up to 50% of total power output, a change that has sparked comparisons to the energy management strategies inherent in Formula E racing.
This isn’t simply a matter of competitive rivalry. Longo, while remaining a fan of Formula 1, suggests the recent regulatory changes could ultimately diminish the spectacle and excitement that define the sport. The shift towards greater electrification, he argues, is a departure from what makes Formula 1 unique. The increasing focus on electrical power in F1 has even drawn commentary from drivers like Max Verstappen, who described the new cars as “Formula E on steroids” during pre-season testing, a remark Longo acknowledged with a shrug and a Spanish proverb: “Let them talk.”
F1’s Energy Management Challenges Compared to Formula E
The contrast in energy management between the two series has become particularly apparent. During the recent Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, F1 drivers reported struggling with electrical energy depletion on straights, a consequence of the track’s limited braking zones. Formula E, however, doesn’t face the same issue. Drivers in Formula E can utilize “Attack Mode” – a temporary power boost of 350kW – for up to six minutes without experiencing a reduction in speed. “Yes, we can use eight minutes or six minutes of Attack Mode and the car doesn’t slow down,” Longo stated. “I think they need to be back to where they are. They are noise, they are full power, they are breaking the latest [technologies], this is what Formula 1 is about.”
Longo emphasized that Formula E was designed as a distinct proposition from the outset. “We are a completely different proposition. We have been presented like that since day one,” he explained. “It’s not one or the other. it’s both of them. But the problem is that they try to become more Formula E. In my opinion, as a fan, I think they are making a mistake. I definitely believe that they should stick to what they are, to their principles.”
Formula E as a Testing Ground for Future Circuits
Looking ahead, Longo envisions Formula E playing an increasingly important role as a testing ground for new circuit designs, particularly with the introduction of the more powerful Gen4 car in the 2026-27 season. He believes F1 could learn from Formula E’s flexibility in venue selection, pointing to past races in locations like Brooklyn and Paris as examples of events F1 would have been unable to host. “I think they will study what we do, as they have done in recent years,” Longo said. “Obviously, we are very advanced in terms of the specific technology we use.”
He also anticipates increased “fishing” for talent from Formula E by Formula 1 teams, as they seek engineers, technicians, and even drivers with expertise in electric and hybrid technologies. “As Formula 1 is becoming more electric or becoming more hybrid, definitely I’m sure there will be fishing in our power in terms of technical people, engineers, even drivers, why not? They will try to steal all those people from our teams and manufacturers, for sure,” Longo concluded.
The evolving landscape of motorsport suggests a growing convergence between Formula 1 and Formula E, but Longo’s comments underscore the importance of each series maintaining its distinct identity. As Formula 1 continues to navigate its path towards greater sustainability, the expertise and innovation developed within Formula E will undoubtedly remain a point of interest and potential collaboration. The future will likely see continued scrutiny of how these two championships adapt and compete in a rapidly changing automotive world.
What are your thoughts on the direction of Formula 1 and Formula E? Share your opinions in the comments below.
