Formula E Unveils Gen4 Car: ‘A Whole New Machine’ with 816 Horsepower

Formula E has officially unveiled its next-generation racecar, the Gen4, set to debut in Season 13 (2026-27), marking what the series calls ‘the biggest development leap in its history.’ The new machine delivers up to 600 kW of power—equivalent to 816 horsepower—and features permanent all-wheel drive, a significant upgrade from the previous Gen3 specification.

The Gen4 car was officially presented on November 5, 2025, as confirmed by multiple sources, including the series’ official announcement and technical specifications released by the FIA. With a 55 kWh battery capacity—up from 38.5 kWh in Gen3—and redesigned aerodynamics allowing two distinct configurations, the vehicle is engineered for heightened performance and efficiency.

Porsche has been at the forefront of this transition, unveiling its specific iteration, the 975 RSE, which completed initial test runs in November 2025. The vehicle’s designation honors Porsche Motorsport’s 75th anniversary in 2025, with the manufacturer reporting the car has already accumulated over 1,860 kilometers of testing.

According to Porsche team principal Florian Modlinger, the Gen4’s capabilities are transformative: ‘The acceleration is impressive, and we expect top speeds of up to 335 km/h.’ This projection aligns with the series’ broader performance goals, which include stronger acceleration and a top speed exceeding 330 km/h, as outlined in the Gen4 technical framework.

Driver Pascal Wehrlein, the 2024 Formula E World Champion and current points leader in Season 12, echoed the sentiment of a paradigm shift: ‘The anticipation is huge. The cars are so much faster, it’s a whole new machine. Fans can really look forward to it.’ Wehrlein, who drives for Porsche, emphasized the intensive transition process involving simulator work and track testing.

The Gen4 introduces several technical advancements designed to improve both performance and sustainability. Each car will be constructed using at least 20% recycled materials, with the entire vehicle designed for recyclability after its competitive life. Tire supplier Bridgestone provides treaded dry and Monsoon wet compounds, optimized for the Gen4’s increased torque and all-wheel-drive dynamics.

Weight remains a critical factor, with the Gen4 specified at 1,016 kg (2,240 lb), only slightly higher than the Gen3 Evo despite the addition of a second motor for all-wheel drive. This efficiency gain stems from advancements in battery density and lightweight materials, allowing the 600 kW powertrain to deliver immediate performance benefits without compromising agility.

Series officials have highlighted improved energy recovery during braking as a key innovation, enabling drivers to harness more kinetic energy than in previous generations. Combined with the larger battery, this system supports longer periods of peak power deployment, particularly during attack mode and qualifying sessions when the full 600 kW is available.

As Formula E prepares for the Gen4 era, the focus shifts to ensuring competitive parity among manufacturers. The standardized chassis, developed by Spark Racing Technology, ensures that innovation centers on powertrain, software, and aerodynamics—areas where brands like Porsche, Jaguar, and Nissan can distinguish themselves.

The Gen4 is forecasted to develop its competitive debut in Season 13, beginning in late 2026. Teams are currently in the final stages of validation, with prototype testing continuing through early 2026 ahead of the first official race.

For continued updates on Formula E’s Gen4 rollout, including testing schedules and team preparations, follow the series’ official channels and team announcements as the 2026-27 season approaches.