Photo: Formula E
‘NEOM McLaren driver Jake Hughes reaches a blazing speed of 135.9 MPH in a GenBeta development vehicle.’
Formula E has showcased the “unlocked” potential of its Gen3 electric race car ahead of the final two races of Season 9 in London. The series achieved the world record for indoor land speed, reaching 135.9 MPH (218.71 KPH) in a GenBeta development car on a .176-mile straight at the London E-Prix circuit. The run took place inside the ExCeL London arena. NEOM McLaren Formula E driver Jake Hughes piloted the car, surpassing the previous record of 102.7 MPH (165.2 KPH) by 33 MPH.
Hughes and fellow driver Lucas di Grassi from Mahindra Racing went head-to-head in a modified version of Formula E’s duels format. They both set faster speeds on the indoor section of the track during their practice runs and continued to break the previous world record during their official attempts. Neither driver had driven the GenBeta car prior to this exhibition.
The GenBeta car features several upgrades to enhance its speed and power compared to the Gen3 car used in race events. It has an increased power output of 400kW, up from 350kW, and is equipped with all-wheel drive for the first time in a Formula E car. The front powertrain kit provides more traction during acceleration. Alessandra Ciliberti, Formula E’s technical manager, explained that the activation of four-wheel drive in a single-seater race car for both acceleration and braking regeneration is a significant feature of the GenBeta car, showcasing the future possibilities of Formula E racing.
The GenBeta car utilized softer Hankook tires, allowing for faster warm-up and better peak grip. The car also had 3D-printed wing endplates, wheel fins, and a wind deflector to improve aerodynamics and achieve peak straight-line speed. The drivers’ runs were analyzed using Al technology powered by Google’s Vertex platform and McKinsey & Company’s QuantumBlack, enabling the interpretation of telemetry data and strategy refinement.
To make the record official, the drivers had to start from a standstill and come to a complete stop inside the convention center. This required a 130-degree turn at approximately 25 MPH before accelerating along the straight. Speeds were measured 16.4 feet before the drivers reached the breaking zone, which was the section of the circuit needed for them to stop and remain within the building.
The regular Gen3 car is already recognized as the fastest and most efficient electric racer ever built. It can reach speeds of over 200 MPH and generates 40 percent of the power required for an E-Prix through braking. GenBeta is described as an innovation platform created by Formula E, the FIA, Sabic, and Hankook. The vehicle is used for projects that experiment with new materials and technology to enhance performance, efficiency, and sustainability.