Formula E
Electric single-seaters, city-centre streets and racing that never settles down.
2026 schedule
For the latest Formula E calendar and results, see the official Formula E site.
Formula E is the FIA's all-electric single-seater championship, and it brings wheel-to-wheel racing straight into city streets. Instead of remote permanent tracks, the cars squeeze between barriers and walls in the heart of major cities. That makes every lap tight, bumpy and unpredictable. Fans love the close packs, the constant overtaking and the way energy management turns a race into a rolling chess match. It is also a rare series where the technology on the grid and the action on track are closely linked.
The series was founded by Alejandro Agag, with strong backing from then-FIA president Jean Todt, and held its first race in Beijing in September 2014. Early seasons used identical cars, and drivers swapped into a second car mid-race because the batteries could not last a full distance. Nelson Piquet Jr. won the first title. Since then, new car generations have arrived, major manufacturers have come and gone, and the championship has grown into a global tour with a loyal fanbase.
How it works
- An event usually packs practice, qualifying and the race into one compact day, so there is no long wait for the action.
- Qualifying sets the starting grid. Starting position matters a lot on tight street circuits where passing takes planning.
- Drivers must manage battery energy over the whole race. Going flat out early can leave you slow and vulnerable at the end.
- Cars recover energy when braking, and special power boosts such as Attack Mode reward drivers who leave the ideal racing line.
Fan tips
- Pick a grandstand near a slow corner or hairpin. That is where overtakes tend to happen and you will see the most close-quarters action.
- Bring ear protection, but you will not need as much as at a combustion race. The cars are far quieter, so you can actually hear the crowd and tyres.
- Watch the energy and battery graphics when following live. They often show who is saving up for a late push before it happens on track.
- Check the official series channels for the current calendar, session times and how to watch, since these change from season to season.
Legends of Formula E
Books, biographies and collectibles about the series' greats.
FAQ
What makes Formula E different from Formula 1?
Formula E cars are fully electric and race mainly on temporary street circuits in city centres. Energy management is a bigger part of the strategy, and the cars are generally lighter on top speed but quick off the line. The two series are separate championships.
Do the cars run out of battery during a race?
Not by design. Teams and drivers have to ration energy across the race, and regenerative braking puts some back. Early seasons required a mid-race car swap, but that was dropped when battery technology improved.
Has Formula E raced in the United States?
Yes. Over its history the series has visited American cities including Miami, Long Beach and New York. Check the official schedule for the current calendar and venues.
Who is a good driver to start following?
Look at the live standings on this page and pick someone in the title fight or a driver from a team you like. Then follow how they handle energy management, as that is often where races are won.