Avid readers will remember that, back in April, Renault showcased a one-off mentalist version of the sweet little electric Twizy. Back then we all laughed at the massive wing, huge front splitter, racing wheels and tyres and its F1 KERS electric motor. Now though, it does seem that there was method in the madness with the unveiling of this: the Spark-Renault SRT_01E.
Now whilst its name does have a Kia-vibe about it, the SRT_01E will eventually make its way onto the starting grid for the first ever all-electric, FIA-spec, single-seater racing series known as Formula E. The season will start in September next year, and feature city-centre races spanning Europe, Asia and the Americas.
The car itself has been developed under the watchful eye of some of the top names in motorsport. The chief company, Spark, has appointed Renault as its technical partner in developing the 40 single-seaters that will compete in the first season. McLaren Electronic Systems, Williams Advanced Engineering and Dallara have also had their input into the race series. Interestingly, Ferrari is nowhere to be seen.
The biggest issue with all-electric racing is range. Traditionally, when you drive an electric car at full chat its batteries are out of juice rather quickly. With the SRT_01E though, the 200kW (or 270hp to you and me) electric motor is only able to reach peak power during qualifying sessions. When the race begins, power is limited to 180hp. There is also a "push-to-pass" button installed, giving temporary access to 200hp - much like the KERS system in F1 cars.
The car's overall weight is just 800kg, resulting in a 0-100km/h time of three seconds and a limited top speed of 200km/h. Due to the close-quarters racing involved in city-based competitions, this should be quick enough.
Anything else?
The SRT_01E was revealed to the world at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and will be racing through cities such as London, Rome, Bangkok and Los Angeles in the Formula E Championship - set to run from September 2014 to June 2015. A new era in motorsport is soon to begin...