The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is set to revolutionize the race-day experience with the launch of Pit Boost – a groundbreaking new feature debuting at select races during Season 11.
Designed to enhance strategy, unpredictability and fan engagement, Pit Boost will showcase cutting-edge, ultra-fast EV charging technology while adding a thrilling new dimension to Formula E races.
WHAT IS PIT BOOST?
Pit Boost is an innovative mid-race feature that provides a 10% energy increase (3.85kWh) to the cars through a 30-second, 600kW rapid recharge in the pitlane. This mandatory sporting feature – deploying more than double the power of current consumer superchargers – adds another strategic element during selected races, with the potential to dramatically alter race tactics and outcomes.
STRATEGIC RACING IMPACT
Pit Boost is set to redefine race strategy in Formula E. Drivers and teams will have to weigh the benefits of an energy boost against the risk of losing track position during the pit stop.
Choosing the optimal moment to deploy Pit Boost will be pivotal, introducing heightened stakes and an extra layer of drama to every race.
Pit Boost will debut during Formula E’s Jeddah E-Prix in Saudi Arabia on February 14-15, 2025.
Alberto Longo, Co-Founder and Chief Championship Officer, Formula E, said: “After an extensive simulation and testing process, we’re pleased to finally present this game-changing technology to the world. It marks one of the most ambitious and impactful additions not just to our series, but modern motorsports. Pit Boost will challenge teams and drivers to make high-stakes decisions under intense pressure. The potential for dramatic overtakes, unexpected twists, and human ingenuity will elevate the excitement for our fans and showcase Formula E and the FIA’s relentless commitment to innovation. As a series born to enhance the technology transfer from the race track to the road, it marks a step-change for consumer vehicles and the potential of EV performance.”
Marek Nawarecki, Senior Circuit Sport Director, FIA, said:
“Following a comprehensive testing program, we are glad to once again be able to push the boundaries of electric mobility with the introduction of Pit Boost. Part of the FIA Technical & Sporting Regulations, this pioneering new feature will add another strategic element to the sport, underscoring the FIA’s steadfast commitment to developing evermore advanced race-to-road technologies – an approach that is perfectly exemplified by the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.”
As the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship continues to lead the charge in advancing electric mobility, Pit Boost highlights the rapid progress in EV charging technology. The innovation addresses one of the key challenges in EV adoption: charging speed and time. It also demonstrates Formula E’s unique position as a “race-to-road” technology platform.
Pit Boost has undergone extensive simulation and testing to ensure its safety, reliability, and race-enhancing potential. Strict protocols govern its implementation, including limits on when and how it can be deployed, ensuring the feature delivers both excitement and safety on race day.
QUICK FACTS ABOUT PIT BOOST:
- The technology adds 10% additional energy (+3.85kWh) to race cars in the form of a 30-second charge at 600kW. It is deployed during a 34-second stationary pit stop.
- Mandatory for all drivers in designated races.
- Independent of existing Attack Mode rules, Pit Boost provides teams with two strategic elements to manage alongside one another.
- No more than two Pit Crew may work on the car during the Pit Boost, plus one Pit Crew member assigned specifically to stop and release the car.
- Only one car at a time per team may carry out Pit Boost (not simultaneously).
- Pit Boost highlights rapid-charging EV technology, reflecting Formula E’s “race-to-road” ingenuity.
- The FIA will determine the window to during which teams may use Pit Boost (depending on a determined ‘Status of Charge’ value), which will be shared with teams 21 days prior to each race.
