Max Verstappen Invited to Test Formula E Machinery
Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 world champion, has been given an open invitation to test Formula E machinery following his recent comparison between the series’ all-electric cars and F1’s new generation. Verstappen labelled the new F1 cars being tested in Bahrain this week as “Formula E on steroids,” sparking a conversation about the direction of the sport.
A complete overhaul of the engine rules has introduced a near 50-50 split between combustion and battery power, meaning there will be added emphasis on managing electrical power, recharging batteries under braking in corners, and the tactical deployment of different power modes through a grand prix. This significant change has led to concerns among drivers, including Verstappen, who believes the new F1 cars are “anti-racing.”
Verstappen’s Criticism and Formula E’s Response
Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds, currently in Saudi Arabia with the championship, extended the invitation to Verstappen after reading his comments. Dodds texted Verstappen, saying, “My slightly tongue-in-cheek message from last night was, well, one, you’re in Bahrain, I’m in Jeddah. It’s a quick flight. I’ll go and get him if he wants.” Dodds emphasized that the invitation is genuine, stating, “Open invitation. Come and drive the car. For the Gen 4 car, come and have a go and see what you think.”
Dodds highlighted that several F1 drivers have expressed interest in driving the Gen 4 car, and he would love to hear Verstappen’s honest opinion on it. The Gen 4 car is Formula E’s new all-electric single-seater, set to debut in the 2026-27 season, with roughly 600 kW (over 800 horsepower) and permanent all-wheel drive. Dodds noted that the Gen 4 car is much faster than its predecessor, with a 10-second lap time improvement, and will continue to evolve with advancements in technology.
Concerns About the Future of F1
Lewis Hamilton also expressed criticism of the new generation, stating that the new rules have produced something so complicated that fans will need a university degree to understand all the new elements. Dodds believes that it is natural for F1’s drivers to be concerned about the direction of the sport, as they are accustomed to pushing the limits of speed and performance.
Dodds noted that Verstappen’s comments were not surprising, given his love for driving on the edge and his experience with previous generations of F1 cars. However, Dodds also emphasized that the evolution of technology will continue to shape the sport, and Formula E is at the forefront of this change. With its focus on sustainable energy and innovative design, Formula E is poised to become an increasingly competitive and exciting series.
As the world of motorsport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how drivers like Verstappen and Hamilton adapt to the changing landscape. With the invitation to test Formula E machinery, Verstappen has the opportunity to experience the latest advancements in electric racing and provide his expert opinion on the future of the sport.
