Eager Anticipation Ahead of Berlin – Europe Plays Host to the Formula E Race Series

Having been staged in Asia, Africa, South and Central America, the FIA all-electric racing series arrived in Europe with events in Monaco and Paris. The Berlin “home fixture” is now set to take place June 10-11, 2017 as the highlight for Germany’s only racing team. Würth Elektronik eiSos, technology partner and sponsor of the ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport team, sees the race also as a chance to awaken more enthusiasm for eMobility in Europe. The manufacturer of electronic and electromechanical components is also looking to find and recruit young engineers among the spectators at the trackside. One highlight in Berlin is the “eVillage”, which not only hosts public viewing, the presentation ceremony and autograph sessions, but also exhibitions focusing on eMobility.

The German team has been very successful in this Formula E season. Lucas di Grassi triumphed in Mexico and finished 2nd in Monaco. ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport is in 2nd place in both the team and driver rankings. “We are all captivated and look forward to the race in Berlin”, says Alexander Gerfer, CTO Würth Elektronik eiSos. “The allegiance with our team is strong. Our technology is now on-board and is knocking out laps at a tremendous pace. We wish our team, and also Formula E as a whole, every success. The race series with its electric racers provides a unique platform to awaken enthusiasm for eMobility worldwide”.

Technology partnership intensified

As a manufacturer of high quality components, like REDCUBE PRESS-FIT terminals for high current applications, not only has Würth Elektronik recently entered into partnership with ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport, but is also actively involved in new developments. For instance, Würth Elektronik eiSos worked with ABT Sportsline in developing a backup battery to supply power in the cockpit with a weight below 2,200 g, saving over 50 percent of the previous battery weight. ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport also developed the charging infrastructure and several subsystems with Würth Elektronik eiSos. Since the beginning of the 3rd season, the battery is integrated in the electric racer.

The parent company has also become inspired by Formula E: in a joint project with Adolf Würth KG and Würth Elektronik eiSos GmbH & Co. KG, the assembly professional Würth manufactured mobile tool racks especially for ABT Schaeffler Audi Sport and supplies the appropriate tools.