The Tokyo E-Prix circuit is undergoing a last-minute alteration just over a week before its inaugural race. Teams were informed of this change yesterday, leading to additional simulator sessions to prepare for the new challenge. Formula E’s Oli McCrudden confirmed that the modification will be made to the Turn 16 section of the circuit, where an extra chicane will be implemented. This will be followed by a right/left complex before a similar and more extensive right/left switchback at T19/20, just before the pit-in area. The teams have been informed that this change is a safety precaution. Some teams have not yet tested their race drivers on the simulator, and they plan to do so on Friday and Saturday before traveling to Japan.
Despite the alterations, the FIA will not modify the usable energy for the first Tokyo E-Prix. The event will still be allocated a fixed 32KwH of energy, and the distance of 33 laps will remain unchanged. Several drivers have expressed their expectations that the field will be more easily separated, and there will not be a race focused on energy management like in the Sao Paulo E-Prix. Instead, a race more similar to the Riyadh encounters is anticipated, although there is a higher possibility of safety cars due to the narrow track.
In addition to the circuit changes, teams will also have to contend with cold temperatures and the potential for rain. The free practice and qualifying sessions could take place in temperatures ranging from 10-12°C next Saturday, while the race is expected to have temperatures between 14-16°C. The performance of the hard Hankook tires in such low temperatures is relatively unknown, and using them consistently in cold conditions presents a significant challenge.
The upcoming Tokyo E-Prix is a momentous occasion for Formula E. According to CEO Jeff Dodds, Tokyo has been a highly coveted location for a race for the past decade. Alongside cities like New York City, London, Paris, and Rome, Tokyo has always been a target for Formula E. The event in Tokyo will make history as the first motorsport race ever held in the world’s most populous city. Dodds believes that the race in Tokyo will be incredibly exciting, as the city has a strong racing culture and an openness to new experiences. He considers it a significant race in Formula E’s ten-year history for a variety of reasons.
The Nissan Formula E team is particularly excited about the Tokyo E-Prix, as they have achieved two consecutive podium finishes in Diriyah and Sao Paulo with Oliver Rowland. As the leading advocate for automotive electrification in Japan, Nissan’s presence in Tokyo adds prestige to the championship. Tommaso Volpe, the managing director and team principal of Nissan, expressed his happiness about racing in Japan and believes that all manufacturers, teams, and brands involved in the sport share this sentiment. He also emphasized the importance of Tokyo becoming a permanent fixture in the Formula E calendar, as it will help build a lasting legacy for the event.
Formula E has faced challenges in maintaining consistency in some regions. Cities like Seoul, Cape Town, Hyderabad, Zurich, and Montreal have only hosted one event in the past seven seasons, with little chance of a return to these venues. Volpe stressed the significance of Tokyo being a regular race on the calendar and building upon the event year after year. He revealed that there are high ambitions for the Tokyo E-Prix and the desire to establish a strong and enduring presence in the city.