Formula E, the world’s first fully-electric single-seater racing series and the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) has announced the Smart Cities Initiative, a new programme created to promote the use of safe, sustainable and accessible e-mobility solutions in cities.
The initiative aims to form synergies between the motorsport and mobility pillars of the FIA, bringing industry experts, public authorities and mobility specialists together to identify and tackle issues facing over populated, heavily polluted cities.
Three races have been selected to hold Smart Cities conferences during the 2016/17 season of the FIA Formula E Championship along with a special event in Paris, with each focusing on a key area linked to e-mobility and urban growth.
The first Smart Cities Forum, in Mexico City, will highlight the advancement of green mobility while during the Berlin ePrix the initiative will address new mobility models. During the season finale, taking place in Montreal on July 29 & 30, the Smart Cities Forum will discuss the rise of Smart Data and its capabilities.
During the Awards Gala event to celebrate the end of the season in Montreal, a panel of judges will recognise two of the best projects that have been nominated by each of the Formula E races held this season to be recognised for their efforts in mobility services and mobility solutions.
The Smart Cities Start-up, established in conjunction with investment fund company Digital Leaders Ventures, will take place during the week of each race and will identify, support and invest in some of the most innovative and relevant technology companies on a concept that could help revolutionise how cities approach e-mobility issues.
The project, with Smart Cities partners Michelin, Julius Baer and Enel will establish a collaboration with start-up companies to foster innovation and technology development to find solutions to air pollution in city centres.
