Porsche has begun track testing its GEN4 Formula E car, featuring 600kW (816 PS) peak power, permanent all-wheel drive, and significantly increased downforce, marking the largest performance upgrade in the championship’s history.
This all-electric single-seater, compliant with ABB FIA Formula E World Championship’s fourth vehicle regulations, started testing in November 2025 and pushes boundaries with in-house Porsche developments for lighter, more efficient components. For EV enthusiasts and road car buyers, it showcases technologies like over 97% drivetrain efficiency that could trickle down to future Porsche Taycan models.
Porsche’s Formula E Journey and Market Position
Porsche entered Formula E in Season 8 (2021/22), quickly establishing itself as a frontrunner with multiple race wins and a strong championship presence. The German automaker, known for its road-going EVs like the Taycan, uses the series to advance electric powertrain technology.
Now in its third iteration with the GEN4 car set for the 2026/27 season, Porsche faces heightened pressure to maintain dominance amid rising competition from manufacturers like Jaguar, Nissan, and Audi (before their exit). Development emphasizes in-house components, including operating software, pulse inverter, electric motor, gearbox, differential, drive shafts, cooling, carrier, and rear suspension – all designed for reduced weight, higher performance, durability, and cost efficiency. Testing continues until October 2026, shifting then to software optimization.
Florian Modlinger, Porsche’s Director Factory Motorsport Formula E, highlighted the current GEN3 Evo’s 97% drivetrain efficiency – losing less than 3% energy from battery to wheel – with GEN4 targeting further gains alongside the 71% power increase to 600kW in Attack Mode.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Peak Power (Attack Mode) | 600kW (816 PS / ~815 hp) |
| Peak Race Power | 450kW |
| Regenerative Braking | 700kW |
| Race Energy Capacity | Up to 55kWh (43% increase from GEN3 Evo) |
| Drive System | Permanent all-wheel drive |
| Aerodynamics | Two configurations: high downforce (qualifying), low downforce (race); significantly increased downforce |
| Tires | New Bridgestone tires (replacing Hankook) |
| Chassis | Spark Racing Technology:≥20% recycled materials, fully recyclable |
| Drivetrain Efficiency (Current GEN3) | >97% |
| Debut Season | 2026/27 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship |
Note: Top speeds over 210 mph confirmed in early private testing at Jarama. Exact Porsche-specific weights and final cost details not yet confirmed.
Performance Breakthroughs
The GEN4 represents a revolution with power nearly doubling from GEN3 Evo’s 350kW to 600kW, enabling bursts over 815hp in Attack Mode for aggressive overtakes. Permanent AWD across all race phases – a first for open-wheel series – combined with traction control and ABS, promises superior handling and acceleration.
Enhanced 700kW regen exceeds power output, supporting bolder strategies with 55kWh usable energy. Aerodynamic tweaks include adjustable front wing flaps and dual setups for optimized downforce, plus bigger Bridgestone tires for greater grip. Early tests show the car shattering lap records, positioning it among the world’s highest-performance racers.
In-House Innovations and Efficiency Focus
Porsche’s extensive in-house hardware pushes boundaries beyond regulations, mirroring road EV priorities like weight reduction and cost control. Components target extended service life while boosting performance, with drivetrain refinements building on near-perfect efficiency.
Sustainability shines through Spark’s chassis using at least 20% recycled materials, all recyclable. However, unanswered questions remain: How will permanent AWD affect tire wear? Will software updates fully harness the hardware by 2026/27 debut? These could influence race reliability and strategy.
Critical Perspective: Gains vs. Challenges
While GEN4 elevates Formula E’s credibility against Formula 1-level speeds, the massive power hike risks widening gaps between top teams like Porsche and newcomers unless cost efficiencies materialize. Porsche’s in-house focus strengthens its edge but demands flawless execution under development pressure.
Comparison with Competitors
| Aspect | Porsche GEN4 | Jaguar GEN4 (Expected) | Nissan GEN4 (Expected) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Power | 600kW | 600kW (series standard) | 600kW (series standard) |
| AWD | Permanent | Permanent | Permanent |
| In-House Drivetrain | Extensive (motor, inverter, etc.) | Moderate focus | Moderate focus |
| Current Season Standing | Top contender | Championship leaders | Mid-pack improvers |
Porsche differentiates via superior efficiency and components, potentially outpacing Jaguar’s raw pace and Nissan’s development. GEN3 Evo Jaguar holds the current edge, but GEN4 levels the field.
Verdict
Porsche’s GEN4 Formula E car sets a new benchmark with 600kW power and permanent AWD, ideal for fans tracking EV tech transfer to road cars like an enhanced Taycan. It’s for performance purists valuing efficiency and innovation, though success hinges on software tuning and cost controls. Teams without Porsche’s resources may struggle, raising questions about series parity.
