DS Automobiles is set to bring its highly successful Formula E journey to a close, while Opel prepares to step in and begin a bold new chapter in the all-electric racing series.
After more than a decade as one of Formula E’s most competitive and innovative teams, DS Automobiles will withdraw from the championship at the end of Season 12.
At the same time, Opel has confirmed it will enter the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship as a full factory team starting from the 2026/27 season—marking a significant shift within the Stellantis motorsport lineup.
DS Automobiles Ends a Historic Formula E Era
Since joining Formula E in 2015 as the first premium manufacturer in the series, DS Automobiles has built an impressive legacy. Over 142 races, the French brand secured:
– 4 championship titles (drivers’ and teams’)
– 18 race victories
– 55 podium finishes
– 26 pole positions
Beyond the results, DS has used Formula E as a real-world laboratory to advance electric powertrain efficiency, energy management, and overall system performance—technologies that have directly influenced its latest production EVs, including models offering up to 750 km of range.
The brand will remain active through the remainder of Season 12, aiming to finish on a high note before shifting its motorsport focus elsewhere.
A Strategic Shift Toward New Innovation Platforms
DS Automobiles’ exit is not a retreat from innovation but a strategic pivot. The company is redirecting its efforts toward new technological frontiers, including its recently announced partnership with SailGP Team France.
This move opens up fresh opportunities in areas such as aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and software development—fields that are increasingly relevant to next-generation electric vehicles.
Opel Steps In for the GEN4 Era
As DS steps away, Opel is ready to take center stage. Beginning with the 2026/27 season, the German automaker will compete with its newly formed Opel GSE Formula E Team, signaling a major expansion of its electrified motorsport ambitions.
The timing aligns perfectly with the introduction of Formula E’s next-generation GEN4 cars, which promise a substantial leap in performance:
– Up to 600 kW (816 hp) in qualifying and attack mode
– Permanent all-wheel drive for improved traction
– Energy recovery of up to 700 kW
These advancements make GEN4 the most powerful and efficient era in Formula E history—and an ideal entry point for Opel.
Opel’s Electric Motorsport Ambitions Grow
Opel’s move into Formula E builds on its growing electric motorsport portfolio. The brand has already established itself as a pioneer with the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup, the world’s first all-electric one-make rally series.
Now, with decades of motorsport heritage across rallying, touring cars, and endurance racing, Opel is bringing its engineering expertise to the global Formula E stage.
The Formula E program will also serve as a showcase for Opel’s high-performance electric GSE lineup, including models like the Mokka GSE and the upcoming Corsa GSE.
A Changing Landscape in Formula E
The transition from DS Automobiles to Opel highlights the evolving nature of Formula E as manufacturers continuously adapt their strategies in the race toward electrification.
While DS leaves behind a legacy of success and innovation, Opel’s arrival injects fresh energy into the championship—ensuring that Formula E remains a key battleground for the future of electric mobility.
As the GEN4 era approaches, the spotlight now turns to Opel and how its new factory team will perform against established competitors in one of motorsport’s fastest-growing series.
