Formula E ‘silly season’ is in full swing after a thrilling conclusion to season 12. Nissan today have announced their driver line-up for the 13th season, having recently parted ways with Norman Nato. Oliver Rowland will be joined by Zane Maloney, who joins the team from Lola Yamaha ABT.
Retaining the Champion
The decision to stick with Rowland into the GEN4 era comes after their great relationship together over four seasons. The duo understand each other well, and Nissan retain a champion. Rowland won the Season 11 championship with Nissan, and despite a difficult Season 12, he remains confident in the future.
He and the team had a great opportunity for a second championship victory coming into the final E-Prix. However, the weekend didn’t go the way they’d hoped, finishing 4th. Despite this, together, they gained six podiums, including an impressive victory around the streets of Monaco. Nissan know they’ve retained a driver who can perform when they need it, putting them in the best position for GEN4.
“I’m delighted to continue with Nissan for our seventh season together and fourth consecutive one with Nissan Formula E Team. With the GEN4 car coming in, we’re going to see a big step forward in performance and it’s something we’re really excited for.” – Oliver Rowland
The Boy from Barbados Recruited
Zane Maloney moves from Lola Yamaha ABT to join the Nissan Formula E team for the 2026/27 season. Entering his third season in the series, Maloney has shown serious ability in his two FE seasons, as well as success in junior categories. Nissan continue to see potential in the 22-year-old, and believe he has a great foundation to excel at the team.
The Bajan driver is no stranger to strong results, having been in the championship battle during his final Formula 2 season. He ended that season early, finishing 4th in the standings with two victories and eleven podiums. His time with Lola Yamaha was about development and learning. A new driver with a new team in Formula E gave the pair a chance to evolve. Maloney secured three top-ten finishes, and duel appearances, despite the car being the lowest performing on the grid.
“When I came to Formula E, the team was winning the championship with Oli, so it’s a great chance for me to now join a top manufacturer.” – Zane Maloney
An Unlikely Pairing into GEN 4
Season 13 is a huge step-up for all teams, with the cars receiving a large increase in power and acceleration. In this era of redevelopment, Nissan feel having a new line up is their best chance to maximise GEN4. Experience paired with youth, gives the team drivers who both have core foundations to perform, as well as the drive to succeed.
Team Principal Tommaso Volpe highlighted how important this duo is to the team, with GEN4 being the perfect opportunity for Maloney to build upon skills showcased in his lower category successes.
In addition, keeping a world champion who has played a vital part in the development of the team, means starting the new season in the best possible position.