Formula E’s Gen4 Car: A Power Surge aimed at Closing the Gap with Formula 1
(Published December 14, 2025)
Formula E is poised for a dramatic leap forward with the introduction of its Gen4 car in the 2026/27 season. Unveiled last month, this all-electric racer isn’t just an evolution – it’s a revolution, promising notable performance gains across the board and a serious challenge to the dominance of Formula 1.
the core of this transformation? Raw power. The Gen4 car is projected to deliver a staggering 600kW – that’s over 800 horsepower. This represents a massive 71% increase compared to the current Gen3 Evo cars, which peak at 350kW (469hp). Imagine the acceleration and speed this unlocks!
But the upgrades don’t stop at horsepower. Formula E is introducing several key innovations designed to elevate the racing experience and competitive landscape:
* Permanent Four-Wheel Drive: A game-changer for traction and control, all-wheel drive will be strategically deployed during qualifying duels, race starts, and when utilizing Attack Mode, adding a new layer of strategic complexity.
* Aerodynamic Versatility: Teams will have access to two distinct aerodynamic configurations. A high-downforce setup will maximize grip for qualifying, while a low-downforce option will prioritize speed and efficiency during the race.
* Increased Dimensions: The Gen4 car will be noticeably larger and wider than its predecessor, contributing to improved stability and potentially more exciting wheel-to-wheel racing.
These advancements aren’t accidental. Formula E has long aspired to establish itself as a world-class motorsport platform, capable of directly competing with the pinnacle of motorsport – Formula 1. And according to Formula E CEO jeff Dodds, the Gen4 car is a major step towards achieving that goal.
“The jump we’re making with Gen4 over Gen3 is bigger than any single jump we’ve ever made in a generation,” Dodds told Motorsport.com. “All-wheel drive, 71% more power, about 10 seconds a lap faster than the current Gen3 car. So there’s no question it shuts the gap right down on Formula 1.”
Interestingly, Dodds also points out that the next generation of Formula 1 cars may actually lose pace, potentially narrowing the performance difference even further.
The Gen4 car isn’t just about faster lap times; it’s about redefining what’s possible in electric racing and positioning Formula E as a true contender on the global motorsport stage. The 2026/27 season promises to be a thrilling chapter in the evolution of electric racing
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