In the aftermath of almost complete success for Porsche and Jaguar dominance in the Gen3 era thus far, it’s easy to overlook the impressive accomplishments of the different factions that make up the DS Penske team in Formula E’s relatively short history overall.
Just because the team’s debut season in 2023 was relatively lackluster, according to their own high expectations, doesn’t mean they are any less formidable. They have now added a key technical and strategic force to their ranks. Could this be the final missing piece of the puzzle for a winning combination?
Phil Charles, in his first interview since making the surprising switch from Jaguar to DS Penske, explains the reasons behind his decision to change teams last summer. He had several offers on the table, but it was the combination of Jay Penske’s unwavering desire for success and Jean-Eric Vergne’s hunger for more victories after a few disappointing seasons that instantly attracted Charles.
Charles quickly realized that Penske’s sole purpose in Formula E was to win. Penske’s ambition to pursue his passion without the need to promote a car or a drink brand was something that resonated with Charles. He was impressed by Penske’s quiet determination to compete and succeed.
Upon joining DS Penske, Charles immediately made an impact in adapting to a new working culture. He also focused on improving the small but significant aspects that contribute to success. His enthusiasm for Formula E is boundless, and he can talk at length about its challenges.
Charles is a fierce competitor who loves pure competition. During his gardening leave earlier this year, he watched the first three races and couldn’t help but express his frustration and helplessness as he witnessed the strategies unfold without being able to influence them, something he had been accustomed to for the past six years.
Jean-Eric Vergne, who was previously engineered by Charles at Toro Rosso in Formula 1, is not surprised by Charles’ immediate impact on DS Penske. Vergne acknowledges that the team’s atmosphere is better than ever, and everyone is highly motivated. While Vergne may have had some influence in getting Charles to join DS Penske, he emphasizes that he doesn’t have the power that owner Jay Penske possesses. However, he believes that Penske is making all the right decisions to position the team for victory.
It remains to be seen whether Charles can provide an extra boost for DS Penske in the short term. Both Vergne and his teammate Stoffel Vandoorne had average performances in the 2023 season. The current season has shown some promise, with strong showings in Mexico and Riyadh, but neither driver has yet demonstrated the potential to win races.
Charles will strive to improve this situation, although his options are limited due to the homologation regulations for the current season. One of DS Penske’s main competitors is Jaguar, and Charles, having played a significant role in the development of the Gen3 Jaguar, will have mixed feelings if they have a successful season.
However, Charles sees his involvement with Jaguar in a positive light. He takes pride in the progress the team has made over the years, from being at the bottom of the championship to now being a leading force. He admires the people at Jaguar and feels a sense of accomplishment in their achievements.
At the same time, as a fierce competitor, Charles derives joy from challenging and surpassing his former team. He is determined to chase them down and outperform them.
A major aspect of Charles’s role will be to nurture the Gen3 Evo car for the 2025 and 2026 seasons before the introduction of the Gen4 rules. Although much of the Gen3 Evo package has already been finalized, Charles will still have the opportunity to influence vehicle dynamics and evaluate and exploit the new aero package.
While he acknowledges that he may not have as much impact in the present, Charles is excited about the future challenges and the group of people he is working with. He promises to give his all in the pursuit of success and is confident in their ability to reach their goals, although he cannot predict how quickly they will achieve them.