Photo credit: www.motorsport.com
Jean-Eric Vergne Raises Concerns Over New Pit Boost in Formula E
Jean-Eric Vergne, a two-time champion in Formula E, has expressed apprehensions regarding the potential challenges posed by the introduction of the Pit Boost system, set to debut at the upcoming Jeddah E-Prix on February 14-15. This new feature is part of a broader overhaul of the championship’s regulations, which includes the innovative Gen3 Evo car design.
The Gen3 Evo vehicles are now equipped with enhanced four-wheel drive capabilities and utilize softer Hankook tires, leading to significant improvements in lap times across various circuits. Notably, the pole position time was nearly three seconds faster in Sao Paulo and 2.3 seconds quicker in Mexico compared to previous seasons.
The Pit Boost aims to provide each car with a strategic advantage by allowing a 10% battery recharge at a power rate of 600kW during scheduled pit stops that last approximately 30 seconds. This system has been in development for over two years and will be vital in the races that follow the maiden outing in Saudi Arabia.
“There will undoubtedly be many unknowns,” Vergne noted, highlighting concerns that race leaders might find themselves unexpectedly a lap behind under certain circumstances, especially if a safety car is deployed at critical moments.
Vergne elaborated on the dynamics of race strategy, observing that once the pit stop window opens, drivers will be compelled to make tactical decisions. Those who pit will need to execute their planned undercuts effectively, while others may push their pace to avoid being overtaken by those who have already made their stops.
“Pitstops are relatively lengthy; in some situations, they could leave us a lap down, so I hope that the FIA and Formula E consider measures to shorten the stop duration,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the race’s competitive integrity, particularly if leaders exit the pits facing a significant disadvantage in relation to the pack.
“The element of chance has begun to play too large a role. With the safety car potentially entering the fray as drivers pit, a late stop followed by a safety car can dramatically alter the race outcome, giving a substantial advantage to those who timed their pit stops perfectly,” Vergne remarked.
In addition to the new pit strategy, Vergne also addressed the evolving nature of Attack Mode, which has gained potency this season due to the all-wheel drive feature. He acknowledged the need for improvements to ensure a more equitable experience for all drivers.
“I encountered this issue twice recently in Sao Paulo and Mexico. Activating Attack Mode only to see a full-course yellow shortly afterward disrupted my strategy immensely,” he lamented, recounting his placements of ninth and fifth in those races. “Given how crucial this mode is for gaining performance and position, poor timing can be significantly detrimental.”
Vergne’s sentiments were echoed by fellow driver and champion Sebastien Buemi, who agreed that as Attack Mode becomes increasingly impactful, any inability to utilize it effectively can lead to results heavily influenced by luck, rather than pure skill or strategy.
As the excitement for the Pit Boost and revised strategies builds, both Vergne and Buemi’s criticisms highlight the inherent unpredictability of motorsport, reminding teams and fans alike that even the most strategic plans can be thwarted by chance.
Source
www.motorsport.com