The variety of electrified vehicles on display in Frankfurt is amazing – from huge luxury sedans to practical little city cars, they’re all plugging in. This one is at the high-speed end of the scale: the Spark-Renault SRT_01E electric race car that will be driven in the inaugural FIA Formula E Championship, the global electric racing series that begins in September 2014.

Built by Spark Racing Technology, the SRT_01E is a showpiece for the latest technology and the leading manufacturers in motorsport from around the world. The carbon fiber and aluminum monocoque chassis is made by the Italian firm Dallara, and has been aerodynamically designed to aid overtaking. The electric motor, gearbox and electronics are from McLaren Electronics Systems. The batteries and battery management system, which produce 200 kw (270 bhp) of power, come from Williams Advanced Engineering. The custom made 18-inch tires are from Michelin. Overseeing systems integration, performance optimization and powertrain electrical safety is Formula E’s technical partner Renault.

“I congratulate all partners involved in the production of the fully-electric SRT_01E car – it is a fantastic achievement,” said FIA President Jean Todt. “The innovative technology deployed follows the best environmental practices, highlighting the potential of the Formula E Championship to spark a revolution in the development of new electromobility systems, not just for motorsport but also for everyday use. This new championship builds on the FIA’s traditional role as a leading promoter of innovation, technology and performance in the automotive sector.”

The car, which has been 10 months in the making, will be used by all 10 teams and 20 drivers for the first season of the Formula E series. A total of 42 cars will be produced by Spark, with each driver using two cars during the one-hour races.

Source: Formula E