The Formula E boss, Jeff Dodds, has hinted that the series has initiated discussions about a possible involvement of Ferrari in Formula E.
These potential negotiations emerge as Ferrari prepares to inaugurate its first electrification plant next month, where it will produce its own batteries and a fleet of electric vehicles.
The new “e-building” project has been underway since 2022, with a cost of 500 million euros, also allocated to renewable energy and infrastructure, creating up to 250 jobs. Before this new facility, SK On has supplied battery cells for Ferrari’s road cars since 2019, for hybrid models such as the SF90 Stradale and the 296 GTB.
Despite the collaboration with SK On being renewed earlier this year, Ferrari is taking a more active role in the development of battery technology, announcing that it will produce its first fully electric vehicle by the end of 2025.
This significant investment has led to potential contacts with Formula E. When Motorsport.com asked Dodds if discussions had been initiated with Ferrari, he responded: “Maybe.”
He added: “They have announced an electrification plant in Italy and talked about a future electric lineup. It’s the first time they’ve talked about it as a purely electric lineup rather than a hybrid one..”
While Ferrari is synonymous with Formula 1, it returned to racing in the top class of the World Endurance Championship last season, winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the first time since 1965.
In Formula E, which will celebrate its tenth anniversary in 2024, several high-profile manufacturers have already confirmed their commitment to the new Gen4 era, which will begin in 2026-27. This includes Nissan, Porsche, and Jaguar, with Dodds fully aware of the allure Ferrari would bring if it were to join.
“I think having Ferrari involved would elevate the championship,” he said. “We are fortunate because Porsche has the same motorsport history running through their veins, and Maserati the same, although they obviously exited motorsport at a time when Ferrari remained.”
“I believe what Ferrari brings, in addition to greater credibility in motorsport, is this base of loyal fans, the supporters, which is incredible. So, in terms of attracting historical motorsport fans to watch ours, I think Ferrari would do a great job.”
“Clearly, I’d prefer to have them than not to have them. It would elevate the championship, whether it’s exponential or revolutionary remains to be seen, but clearly, they’re in a league of their own..”
When asked for a statement regarding possible interest in joining Formula E, a spokesperson for Ferrari said: “Our focus today is on F1 and endurance – and we have recently announced that we will bring the race where we have never been before – on water[avendo annunciato un progetto di vela all’inizio di quest’anno].”
Regarding the new electric facility, Ferrari’s CEO, Benedetto Vigna, said last month: “For me, the e-building represents three things”:
“The first is the opportunity to create strategic components internally, such as batteries, axles, and the entire vehicle.”
“The second is the ability to build all cars, not only electric ones but also hybrids, with more sustainable technologies. The efficiency of the machines we will use in the e-building will be higher.”
“Third, it shows that we believe in the future, in the need for new technologies, and we must be prepared for it.”
Ferrari’s interest in Formula E represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and innovative future in the racing world. While the Italian brand seeks to dominate in Formula 1 and excel in endurance racing, the potential entry into Formula E could mark a significant evolution in its history. The investment in the e-building and the future production of electric vehicles demonstrate Ferrari’s willingness to adapt and drive the change towards more ecological technologies.