Formula E Introduces Fast-Charging Pit Stops at Jeddah E-Prix
Following the initial announcement made two years ago, Formula E is prepared to implement its fast-charging pit stops in an official race setting. This weekend’s Jeddah E-Prix in Saudi Arabia marks the inaugural introduction of Pit Boost—a mandatory pit stop lasting 34 seconds that provides an additional 10% energy (equivalent to 3.85kWh) through a 30-second charging session. During this process, only two crew members are permitted to work on the vehicle, while a third crew member is tasked with signaling to the driver when they can leave.
The Distinction Between Pit Boost and Attack Mode
It’s essential to note that Pit Boost operates separately from Attack Mode—a feature utilized in previous races that grants drivers a temporary power increase during competition. Typically employed twice per race, Attack Mode requires drivers to maneuver over a designated section off the primary racing line, often trading track position for increased energy capacity.
The introduction of Pit Boost adds another complex element for teams to strategize around. Formula E mandates that only one vehicle may enter the pits at any given time; hence traditional “double stacking,” akin to strategies used in Formula 1 racing, is prohibited by regulations established by both Formula E and its governing body, FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile). In addition to managing their pit stop procedures effectively, teams must also contend with what feels like an eternity—specifically timed at 34 seconds—compared even with rapid sub-three-second stops common in F1 races. The FIA will specify the timing window for implementing Pit Boost prior to each event and inform teams three weeks ahead of scheduled races.
During practices leading up to this event at Mexico’s E-Prix earlier this year, DS Penske’s Maximilian Gunther navigated past rows of charging devices designed for use with Pit Boost (Joe Portlock/Getty Images).
The Evolution from Car Swaps to Efficient Race Management
It’s noteworthy that it has been seven years since pit stops were last part of Formula E events—historically requiring drivers to switch cars mid-race due to battery limitations now resolved with advancements in EV technology. Over recent seasons, vehicles would only enter pits for tire repairs or minor damage fixes which generally hindered their overall placement on track due partly due poor timing needs stemming from such interruptions.
This season marked exciting developments as well with Gen3 Evo car’s debut within Serie; bringing upgraded performance alongside all-wheel drive capabilities which have already resulted fresh thrilling moments—including Jaguar’s Mitch Evans performing remarkably well after starting from lower grid positions during Sao Paulo’s race.
A Journey Towards Implementation Amongst Challenges
Reports indicate that discussions around implementing energy-enhancing pit stops began as early as 2019 during Gen3 car explorations but faced hurdles once practical trials commenced just recently where it became clear rapid-charging systems needed more refinement before deployment could proceed comfortably into future events leading them being postponed until now towards this upcoming season commencement.
This weekend features a double-header format including Jeddah but usage plans identified highlight Friday specifically targeted implementation while exploring opportunities thereafter across select remnants slated through locations including Monaco Tokyo without restrictions impacting future scheduling right away or continued progression either towards established practices moving forward throughout remaining calendar months ahead!
