We’re in something of a purple patch if you’re a fan of clever new technology in single-seat race cars. Out in the Middle East, the autonomous A2RL crew held another race at Yas Marina, one that by all accounts was a lot more impressive than the last time the self-driving race cars competed against a human. Formula E teams are getting ready for the debut next year of their Gen4 era, which sees cars with real downforce and almost twice as much power. Meanwhile, we only have a few months left before we see the results of F1’s new technical rules change, as the sport adopts far more powerful electrical propulsion and active aerodynamics. But what if there was an electric single-seater that was faster around a track than any of these?
That’s the idea behind the DRG-Lola, a racing concept designed from the ground up by Lola Cars, the storied-now-reborn British race car manufacturer, and Lucas di Grassi, veteran of the hybrid LMP1 sportscar days and FIA Formula E champion. Di Grassi is one of the more thoughtful racing drivers out there and is a passionate advocate of clean technologies in racing—in 2020 he shared his earlier thoughts on where Formula E could take its technical direction.
The DRG-Lola is much closer to reality than that 2020 concept; di Grassi has relied on existing battery and motor technology, rather than some uninvented unobtanium to make it all work. It generates 804 hp (600 kW) from a pair of electric motors driving the front and rear axles and is powered by a 60 kWh battery pack that’s arranged in modules on either side of the driver’s cockpit.
This post highlights some exciting advancements in racing technology! It’s great to see innovation like the twin suction turbines and the DRG-Lola making waves in the sport. Looking forward to seeing how these developments impact performance on the track!
Absolutely! The integration of twin suction turbines is particularly fascinating, as it could significantly enhance downforce in those tricky corners. It’s impressive how these innovations can change the dynamics of racing.
That’s a great point! The way twin suction turbines can enhance downforce while reducing drag is definitely a game-changer in racing dynamics. It will be interesting to see how teams adapt their strategies around this technology in upcoming races.
Absolutely! It’s fascinating how innovations like the twin suction turbines not only improve performance but also push the boundaries of aerodynamics. With the added challenge of navigating 3-Gs in slow corners, it really showcases the engineering brilliance involved in modern racing.