Formula E and the FIA launch PIT BOOST, a new mid-race feature providing a 10% energy increase (3.85kWh) via a 30-second, 600kW ultra-fast recharge in the pitlane, debuting during the Jeddah E-Prix on February 14-15, 2025.

·         PIT BOOST will challenge teams to weigh the benefits of an energy boost against the risk of losing track position, introducing new high-stakes strategic elements and enhancing race unpredictability.

·         Highlighting advancements in ultra-fast EV charging, PIT BOOST reflects Formula E and the FIA's role as a “race-to-road” technology platform, addressing key challenges in EV adoption, such as charging speed and efficiency.

·         Mandatory for one of the races of a double header, PIT BOOST includes strict protocols, allowing only one car per team to utilise it at a time. 21 days prior to each race, teams will receive the race information including the Pit Boost window and its deployment will operate independently of existing ATTACK MODE rules.

·         After six successful seasons in Diriyah, the Saudi Arabian E-Prix has moved to Jeddah and will be held at the record-breaking Jeddah Corniche Circuit, on a revised version of the track.

·         Tickets for the Jeddah E-Prix are available via WeBook or Formula E website and include access to the race and all off-track entertainment including the concerts.

LONDON, UK. Thursday, 23 January. 2025 - The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is set to revolutionise the race-day experience with the launch of PIT BOOST – a groundbreaking new feature debuting at the inaugural Jeddah E-Prix that’s ready to entertain thousands of motorsport fans at the record-breaking Jeddah Corniche Circuit on February 14-15. Designed to enhance strategy, unpredictability and fan engagement, PIT BOOST will showcase cutting-edge EV ultra-fast charging technology while adding a thrilling new dimension to select Formula E races across Season 11.

What is PIT BOOST?

PIT BOOST is an innovative mid-race feature that provides a 10% energy increase (3.85kWh) to race cars through a 30-second, 600kW rapid recharge in the pitlane. This mandatory sporting feature – deploying more than double the power of current consumer superchargers – adds another strategic element during selected races, with the potential to dramatically alter race outcomes and tactics.

Strategic Racing Impact

PIT BOOST is set to redefine race strategy in Formula E. Drivers and teams will have to weigh the benefits of an energy boost against the risk of losing track position during the pit stop. Choosing the optimal moment for their PIT BOOST will be pivotal, introducing heightened stakes and an extra layer of drama to every race.

PIT BOOST will debut during Formula E’s Jeddah E-Prix in Saudi Arabia on February 14-15, 2025.

Alberto Longo, Co-Founder and Chief Championship Officer, Formula E, said:

“After an extensive testing and simulation process, we’re pleased to finally present this game-changing technology to the world. It marks one of the most ambitious and impactful additions not just to our series, but modern-day motorsport. PIT BOOST will challenge teams and drivers alike to make high-stakes decisions under intense pressure. The potential for dramatic overtakes, unexpected twists, and human ingenuity will elevate the excitement for our fans and showcase Formula E and the FIA’s relentless commitment to innovation. As a series born to enhance the technology transfer from the racetrack to the road, it marks a step change for consumer vehicles and the future potential of EV performance.'

Marek Nawarecki, Senior Circuit Sport Director, FIA, said:

“Following a comprehensive testing programme, we are glad to once again be able to push the boundaries of electric mobility with the introduction of PIT BOOST. Part of the FIA technical and sporting regulations, this pioneering new feature will add another strategic element to the sport, and underscores the FIA’s steadfast commitment to developing evermore advanced race-to-road technologies – an approach that is perfectly exemplified by the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.”

Highlighting EV Innovation

As the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship continues to lead the charge in advancing electric mobility, PIT BOOST highlights the rapid progress in EV charging technology. This innovation addresses one of the key challenges in EV adoption – charging speed and time – and demonstrates Formula E’s unique position as a ‘race-to-road’ technology platform.

PIT BOOST has undergone extensive testing and simulation to ensure its safety, reliability, and race-enhancing potential. Strict protocols govern its implementation, including limits on when and how it can be deployed, ensuring the feature delivers both excitement and safety on race day.

Quick facts about PIT BOOST:

·         Adds 10% additional energy (+3.85kWh) to race cars in the form of a 30-second charge, as part of a 34-second stationary pit stop at 600kW.

·         Mandatory for all drivers in designated races.

·         Independent of existing ATTACK MODE rules, providing teams with two strategic elements to manage alongside one another.

·         No more than two Pit Crew may work on the car during the PIT BOOST, plus one Pit Crew member assigned specifically to stop and release the car.

·         Only one car at a time per team may carry out PIT BOOST (not simultaneously).

·         Highlights rapid-charging EV technology, reflecting Formula E’s race-to-road ingenuity.

·         The FIA will determine the window to take PIT BOOST (depending on a certain ‘Status of Charge’ value), which will be shared with teams 21 days before each race.

Jeddah E-Prix

After six successful seasons of racing in Diriyah, Formula E is returning to the Kingdom for its seventh year, but this time the race will be held in Jeddah. The E-Prix will take place on a revised version of the high-speed Jeddah Corniche Circuit, famous for being the fastest street circuit in the world, on February 14-15.

The Jeddah E-Prix will also be a special occasion for title sponsor ABB, marking its 100th race with Formula E over the course of the weekend. Fans in Saudi Arabia can expect a variety of brand activations around the track celebrating ABB’s significant partnership with the series.

To avoid missing out on this thrilling event, be sure to buy your Jeddah E-Prix tickets today via WeBook or Formula E website. General admission and grandstand tickets are available for one or both race days, with prices starting from 70SAR and 100SAR respectively. Grandstand tickets also include access to off-track entertainment, including concerts.