Mediabank Formula E | Sam Bloxham
General
Porsche and Andretti making a statement in Formula E
- GPblog.com
For the second time in as many days, Pascal Wehrlein balled his fists in the cockpit of his Porsche. Once again, there was a loud cry of joy. Two ePrix' in Saudi Arabia, two convincing victories from the German driver. Porsche seems to be the team to beat in Formula E this year, closely followed by the Andretti Avalanche team, whose cars are equipped with a Porsche powertrain.
With the introduction of the new generation of Formula E cars, it was to be expected that the order in the electric racing class would be shaken up. It has not been DS Penske and Maserati as expected to lead the way, but it is Porsche that gets to take the honors (for now).
After three races - the first won by Jake Dennis of Andretti Avalanche - the Porsche powertrain appears to be far above the rest in terms of quality. Indeed, at the first race of the season in Mexico, Wehrlein finished second, Dennis finished second twice in Saudi Arabia.
Superior powertrain
Especially at minimum race speed, the Porsche's engine proves superior to the competition. This is crucial, as it allows the cars to consume less energy on the straights. They can then use that energy in the corners, ultimately making them faster than the other teams. The braking system, which the cars use to generate energy, is also very efficient at the two Porsche teams. Yet there is still something to be gained in this respect, Porsche believes, as NIO and McLaren are said to have a small lead in this respect.
Ultimately, Porsche and Andretti want to shine in Formula 1. Porsche has been looking for ages for a partner to start a F1 adventure with (reportedly Williams is still in the picture for that), while Andretti want to start their own team with General Motors/Cadillac. Plenty of plans and ambitions, but it remains extremely uncertain whether both brands will be able to appear on the F1 grid (in 2026).
F1 teams are skeptical
The current F1 teams are not eager to join forces with Porsche and Andretti, that much has become clear after months of haggling. Especially in Andretti's case, there are doubts whether the American team actually adds anything to Formula 1. Perhaps F1 teams should look at other classes to (re)recognize the added value of Porsche and Andretti.
This season in Formula E, these teams are proving capable of building a winning car. They previously succeeded in endurance racing (Porsche and Andretti) and IndyCar (only Andretti competes in that). No doubt both teams will do everything they can to be competitive in the king class of motorsport as well. To be winners even. For the doubting teams in Formula 1, the performances in the other motorsport series should be a sign that Porsche and Andretti do not want to compete in Formula 1 for bacon and beans. No, based on their performance elsewhere, they deserve a place at the highest level.