Formula E has made two significant announcements ahead of this weekend’s race in Sao Paulo. In the morning, the organization confirmed a technical collaboration with Google Cloud. They will utilize various Google Cloud technologies, including scalable cloud infrastructure, data and analytics, and generative artificial intelligence tools, to enhance the development of the GENBETA Race Car. This partnership aims to accelerate the growth of Formula E as the world’s first all-electric motorsport.
Last season, Formula E and Google began their connection with the AI ‘DriverBot’. This collaboration resulted in NEOM McLaren’s Jake Hughes setting a new indoor land speed Guinness World Record before the London E-Prix. In their joint statement, Formula E and Google outlined a three-point plan, which includes the integration of new technologies in sporting development, the expansion of the fanbase, and the support for Formula E’s sustainability leadership.
Jeff Dodds, the CEO of Formula E, expressed his excitement about the multi-year technology partnership with Google Cloud. He believes this collaboration demonstrates Formula E’s ambition to establish itself as the most innovative, thrilling, and fastest-accelerating sport in the world. Dodds also highlighted their record-breaking achievement and expressed their eagerness for future endeavors.
Laurence Lafont, Vice President of Strategic Industries EMEA at Google Cloud, expressed their enthusiasm for partnering with Formula E. Google Cloud aims to bring cutting-edge cloud technologies to the electrifying world of racing. Together, they plan to accelerate innovation both on and off the track and shape the future of sustainable motorsport.
FE has also revealed a fresh Manufacturers’ Trophy for Season 10 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. This exciting competition will involve six manufacturers, namely Electric Racing Technologies, Jaguar, Mahindra Racing, Nissan, Porsche, and STELLANTIS. The scoring system will mirror that of the Teams’ Championship, with extra points awarded for Pole Position and Fastest Lap. In addition to the trophy itself, the victor will be presented with a “Winner’s Badge” to be proudly displayed on drivers’ helmets, cars, and team attire in the upcoming season.
Alberto Longo, Co-Founder of FE, expressed his delight, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce the Manufacturers’ Trophy for Season 10 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. This achievement has been a long time in the making and signifies a significant milestone in the Championship’s evolution, capturing the competitive spirit that drives Formula E. Our manufacturers are at the core of our journey, pushing the boundaries of technology and sustainability in motorsport. Their contributions are crucial, not only in shaping the future of racing but also in advancing electric vehicle technology for everyday use. This trophy will celebrate their innovation, commitment, and role in propelling us towards a more sustainable future.”
Ian James, Chairman of the Teams and Manufacturers Association [FETAMA], commented, “With the introduction of the Manufacturers’ Trophy in Season 10, we are entering a new era of Formula E, one that further emphasizes our dedication to innovation. As a World Championship, Formula E boasts an impressive lineup of manufacturers in motorsport, and it is fantastic to be able to acknowledge and reward the contributions of manufacturers to the series’ past, present, and future. The inclusion of this trophy not only heightens the competitive landscape but also showcases the advanced engineering behind each team.