Formula E works tirelessly on introducing new innovations in both racing and electromobility. PIT BOOST, which will debut at the upcoming Jeddah E-Prix, is one of those. This feature aims to add another strategic layer to one race of double headers and keep the fans entertained. What can you expect?
PIT BOOST will allow one car per team at a time to access a fast-recharging technology, adding more unpredictability – especially during its inaugural E-Prix in Saudi Arabia. The 30-second stop will provide the driver with an additional 10% energy increase. Similar to a pit stop for a tyre change in Formula 1, using PIT BOOST once per race will be mandatory for each car. However, unlike F1 pit stops, teams won’t be able to double-stack or make multiple stops for charging.
Although the recharging process is rapid, the stop still costs valuable time. The timing of each of the two stops per team will be crucial, and strategists will have their hands (and notes) full trying to maximize its benefits while simultaneously evaluating the potential risks.
According to Alberto Longo, Chief Championship Officer of Formula E, PIT BOOST has undergone extensive testing and has been integrated into simulations to ensure it remains entertaining for viewers while staying safe and reliable for the teams and drivers. If fast recharging proves to be a success in Formula E, it could be another step forward for road electromobility. Charging time remains one of the biggest barriers to widespread EV adoption across Europe, and with the ICE ban scheduled for 2035, this would be encouraging progress in the industry.
The FIA will announce the exact PIT BOOST window 21 days before each race where it is implemented, along with details on deployment limits for the teams. This addition is mandatory just like ATTACK MODE, although it will coexist independently, making the strategy planning even more challenging. Strategists won’t be the only ones under pressure in Jeddah – only two Pit Crew members will be allowed to handle the car during PIT BOOST, with a third overseeing the stop and release procedure. Their decisions and precision could be the difference between winning or losing races.
Tune in to the Saudi Arabian E-Prix on 14th-15th February to see how teams adapt to this exciting new element. Much like FANBOOST – fan-driven short time power increase for fan-selected drivers between 2014 and 2022 – PIT BOOST could shake up the standings and bring a new boost of viewership to the all-electric series. No pun intended!