Developers Vie for Next-Gen Formula E Battery Contract

Formula E Holdings Ltd. has received proposals from nine organizations to develop and supply next-generation batteries for the 2018 season of its electric vehicle race circuit, according to Motorsport.com.

The website lists eight applicants, including battery giants Panasonic, Sony and Saft (which was acquired by petroleum powerhouse Total SA earlier this year). Five current Formula E teams also have applied: PSA Group’s DS unit, India’s Mahindra & Mahindra, Red Bull Technologies, Renault and Williams Advanced Engineering. The ninth bidder wasn’t identified.

Williams Engineering supplies the 200-kW batteries currently used in the two-year-old race series. But a more powerful system will be needed for the fifth season of the series in 2018 when teams will be allowed to use only one car during the race. Currently, each team swaps in mid-race to a vehicle with a fresh battery pack.

A high-level of interest among battery companies and other technology specialists has delayed the selection process. But Motorsport.com says a decision could be made as early as this month after meetings with the applicants are concluded.

Formula E serves as a proving ground for EV batteries under harsh operating conditions. In addition to driving range and power, companies can evaluate a battery’s thermal management performance, charge retention and overall durability and maintenance requirements.