Spark-Renault SRT_01E

The Spark-Renault SRT_01E is an electric formula race car. The car is the result of a 10-month collaboration between Spark Racing Technology, McLaren Electronic Systems, Williams Advanced Engineering, Dallara and Renault. The car was used until the end of Formula E’s fourth season in 2018, after which it was replaced by the SRT05e.

Using the very latest technology, the SRT_01E aims to push the boundaries of what is currently achievable in electric motor sport, whilst ensuring a balance between cost-effectiveness and sustainability, in addition to coping with the demands of racing entirely on city-centre circuits.

Base data from specifications indicate a maximum power of 200 kW, top speed of around 200 kph (124 mph) and 0–100 kph (0–62 mph) below 3 seconds. Weight minimum is 800 kg, of which 1/4 is the battery pack weight. That pack is big enough to provide power for 20–25 minutes. Races will be almost an hour long so drivers must swap one Spark-Renault SRT_01E for another half way through.

The car’s monocoque chassis is made from carbon fiber and aluminum and was been constructed by Italian firm Dallara. McLaren Electronics Systems provides the electric motor, gearbox and electronics. Williams Advanced Engineering is responsible for the design and supply of the batteries and their battery management systems. Renault added systems integration, performance optimization and powertrain electrical safety and Michelin is the official tire provider.

It’s worth noting that a single type of tire will be used in both wet and dry conditions to reduce overall costs and promote sustainability.Providing the electric motor, gearbox and electronics is McLaren Electronics Systems, the world leader in high- performance technology for motor sport. Williams Advanced Engineering, part of the Williams group of companies that includes the world famous Williams F1 Team, is responsible for the design and supply of the batteries and their battery management systems; producing 200 kw (the equivalent of 270 bhp).

Overseeing all the systems integration, performance optimisation and powertrain electrical safety is Formula E’s Technical Partner Renault, a leader in electric vehicles and an expert in motor sport thanks to its Renault Sport Technologies and Renault Sport F1 programs. Meanwhile, custom made 18-inch treaded tyres have been created by Official Tyre Partner Michelin, with just one durable Tire to cater for both wet and dry conditions and helping to reduce overall costs and promote sustainability.

The car, which has been 10 months in the making, will be used by all 10 teams and 20 drivers competing in the new zero emission series although only for the first season as Formula E is an ‘open championship’ designed to encourage manufacturers to build their own car to help accelerate R&D around the electric vehicle. A total of 42 cars will be produced by Spark with each driver using two cars during the one hour races.