New era for Formula E has Kiwi and Jaguar TCS Racing feeling optimistic about their prospects for 2023.
Kiwi driver Mitch Evans hopes to build on his momentum from last season when the 2023 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship gets under way in Mexico City this weekend.
He was runner-up for the drivers’ title in 2022 and his Jaguar TCS Racing team finished fourth in the teams’ standings.
Evans, pictured, says: “Last season was my most successful in Formula E, so I’m using that momentum to kick-start this season and focus on achieving a positive result in the first round.
“I have fond memories of winning in Mexico City in 2020, so I’m feeling ready for a strong start to the season.”
The new campaign starts on January 15 (NZ time) and will see the Jaguar I-Type 6 make its race debut as the all-electric race series enters the Gen3 era, encompassing new technical, sporting and financial regulations.
Evans and his British teammate Sam Bird will be competing against 20 other drivers under a new race format. They will also battle for honours over a set number of laps at each of the 16 rounds, as opposed to last season which saw races having a fixed time.
James Barclay, Jaguar TCS Racing’s team principal, notes 2022 was a positive year with a number of highlights.
“But we did just miss out on the top spot. This has given the team even more motivation to be in a position to fight for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship team and driver titles this season,” he adds.
“With our experienced team, Mitch, Sam and the all-new Gen3 Jaguar I-Type 6, we’ve certainly got an exciting season ahead against world class opposition.
“With so much to learn about the new Gen3 cars, new race format and Hankook tyres, this first race in Mexico will be about trying to be as prepared as we can be and ready to adapt.”