Latest Episode | Cut To The Race Podcast
Attack Charge could finally make its Formula E debut next season after its introduction was delayed.
Updates to Formula E’s sporting regulations suggest that the series will go ahead with the fast-charging pit stops next season. (Image credit: Simon Galloway / Formula E) Although “Attack Charge” featured in Formula E’s sporting regulations for 2023, the concept was put on hold last season. Whilst the technology was in place for the fast-charging pit stops, and trials were carried out, the decision was ultimately made that the introduction of Attack Charge would be delayed.
There had been some speculation over whether Attack Charge would be introduced mid-season, but this never came to fruition.
However, with pre-season testing just around the corner, Formula E has published its amended Sporting Regulations for Season 10 of the all-electric racing series. Mentions of Attack Charge remain present in the regulations, with the addition of further information seeming to suggest that it could finally make its in-race debut.
What is Attack Charge?
Attack Charge will see drivers pit for a boost of energy during a predetermined point in the race. The 30-second pit stop enables drivers to later deploy Attack Mode — a feature that sees the power output of the car increase by 50kW to a maximum of 350kW.
Currently, drivers are able to implement Attack Mode in two installations of varying durations. Drivers activate the power boost by driving over a designated activation zone. The use of Attack Mode is mandatory, and drivers must use the entirety of their Attack Mode period. Failure to activate attack mode will result in a penalty.
What do the regulations say?
According to the Formula E sporting regulations, the use of Attack Charge will also be made mandatory. However, it appears that use of Attack Charge will be on a race-by-race basis, as specified by the FIA.
Amendments made to the sporting regulations have provided further clarity to the carrying out of Attack Charge stops. New additions to the regulations include the clarification that teams are “forbidden” to change tyres until the Attack Charge is complete, and that “competitors are forbidden to double stack” in the pitlane for the service of an Attack Charge.
A minimum “stop time” will be published by the FIA ahead races where Attack Charge is mandatory. The regulations state that drivers must comply with this minimum “stop time”, which will be counted from the moment the Boost Charger is connected to the car.
Beyond its mention in the Formula E regulations, there are few other details about Attack Charge. As per The Race, it’s reported that Attack Charge will be mandatory in Riyadh, Italy, Berlin, Shanghai, and London. However, this is yet to be confirmed.
Formula E heads to Valencia from October 23 for a week of pre-season testing. Further details about Attack Charge could be made available throughout the week.
Featured Image Credit: Nick Dungan / Formula E