Formula E’s GEN4 Era Begins: Citroën Racing Unveils New Car, Porsche 975 RSE Hits 816hp, and London Faces Calendar Dilemma

Formula E has unveiled its all-new GEN4 race car, set to debut in the 2026/27 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship season, marking a significant leap in performance, technology, and sustainability for electric racing.

The GEN4 represents the fastest and most powerful Formula E car in the series’ history, capable of reaching speeds over 335 km/h (approximately 208 mph) and delivering up to 600kW of power in Attack Mode – equivalent to over 815 horsepower. This marks a 71% increase in power output compared to the current GEN3 Evo car, with 0-200 km/h acceleration achieved in just 4.4 seconds, 1.5 seconds faster than its predecessor.

Unveiled at Circuit Paul Ricard in the South of France on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, the GEN4 was presented by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Formula E as a machine designed not only for extreme performance but also as a pioneer in sustainable motorsport. The car features two distinct aerodynamic configurations – one optimised for high downforce during qualifying and another for low downforce in race conditions – allowing teams to adapt to varying track demands.

Every aspect of the GEN4’s design prioritises environmental responsibility, with the FIA confirming that the vehicle uses 100% recyclable materials in its construction. At least 20% of key components incorporate recycled materials, and the entire supply chain has been selected for ethical sourcing, recyclability, and reduced environmental impact. This positions the GEN4 as motorsport’s most sustainable race car to date, advancing circular design principles from battery systems to bodywork and tyres.

The introduction of active all-wheel drive and an active differential further enhances the GEN4’s capabilities, making it the most technically advanced Formula E car ever built. These systems are designed to improve handling and performance across all phases of a race, while also increasing the car’s relevance to road-going electric vehicles, allowing manufacturers to transfer innovations directly from track to consumer models.

Despite its technological advancements, the GEN4’s increased size has raised concerns about its compatibility with existing street circuits. The car is 87kg heavier, 439mm longer, and 90mm wider than the GEN3 Evo, posing challenges for tight urban tracks. This has sparked debate over the future of the Formula E calendar, particularly regarding events like the London ePrix at the ExCeL venue, which has hosted the series since 2021 but features narrow, bendy sections that may not accommodate the larger machine.

As Formula E prepares for the 2026/27 season, the GEN4 stands as a symbol of the championship’s evolution – balancing blistering performance with cutting-edge sustainability. While its debut promises to deliver unprecedented wheel-to-wheel racing and fan engagement, the series now faces the task of adapting its urban racing identity to accommodate a new generation of machines that are faster, wider, and more demanding than ever before.