Key Highlights:
- Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds expressed a strong desire to see four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen test the upcoming Gen4 electric race car.
- The high-performance Gen4 machinery features permanent all-wheel drive, offering 450kW in standard race mode and reaching up to 600kW during Attack Mode.
- Formula E plans to race in the Netherlands for the first time in 2027 with a double-header at Zandvoort, while Dodds highlights broader collaboration opportunities with Verstappen’s racing ventures.
Formula E Pursues Max Verstappen’s Technical Insight for Gen4 Era
Formula E chief executive Jeff Dodds has confirmed his sustained interest in seeing reigning four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen get behind the wheel of the championship’s upcoming Gen4 race car. Regarded as the most potent iteration of machinery in the history of the all-electric series, the Gen4 platform represents a massive technological step forward. While formal discussions have not taken place regarding a test run, the championship’s leadership sees significant merit in having the Dutch driver evaluate the electric single-seater.
Speaking on the potential crossover, Dodds acknowledged Verstappen’s current commitments while reaffirming his eagerness to secure the Red Bull Racing driver’s technical perspective. āNo, we havenāt talked to him more about the car,ā
Dodds told RacingNews365. āI know heās very focused, delighted to see him re-sign with Red Bull for the long term. And obviously, we know the team there really well, and I think theyāre doing a really good job.
āBut Iād still love to see Max in this car, partly because I just really value his insight. So Iād love him to drive the car to be able to give us real feedback, real insight into what he thinks of it.ā
Grand Prix Stars Take Notice of Gen4 Performance Figures
The upcoming Gen4 specification introduces significant technical enhancements designed to push performance boundaries. The vehicle incorporates permanent all-wheel drive, delivering 450kW of standard race power and peaking at 600kW when Attack Mode is engaged. This notable surge in output and technology has already attracted attention across the motorsport paddock.
During the Monaco E-Prix, reigning champion Lando Norris took time to inspect the design closely. Fellow Formula 1 drivers Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg also evaluated the vehicle, reflecting a wider curiosity among top-tier open-wheel competitors regarding the next era of electric racing.
Exploring Synergies with Verstappen Racing Ventures
Beyond on-track driving duties, Dodds pointed to the Dutchman’s expansive initiatives across the wider racing ecosystem as another avenue for future alignment. Max Verstappen has actively diversified his efforts through simulator programs and team management, establishing a presence well outside the Formula 1 calendar.
āI forget what itās called, Verstappen Racing, but his investments are not just in him racing Formula 1 cars,ā
Dodds noted. āHeās also building academies, and heās very focused on sim-to-track activity.
“I think there are opportunities to do things with him that could be pretty exciting.ā
Dutch Double-Header and Expanding Driver Market
In 2027, the electric series will make its debut in the Netherlands, staging a double-header event at Circuit Zandvoort in June. Although Dodds kept quiet about any potential involvement from Verstappen on his home turf, the Formula E chief emphasized that the capabilities of the Gen4 platform will serve as a major driver magnet.
“Weāre going to be overwhelmed with potential new drivers,”
he said.
Verstappen has continuously illustrated his passion for competition outside Formula 1, including outings in GT racing, and has voiced positive impressions regarding the Gen4 machinery. While a high-profile crossover remains a possibility down the road, Verstappen’s immediate attention remains fixed on Formula 1, with the United States Grand Prix next on his racing itinerary.
Why This Matters
Formula E’s ambition to involve premier global talents like Max Verstappen signals an aggressive push to elevate the championship’s sporting credibility and engineering prestige. By pushing peak output up to 600kW through the Gen4 regulations, the series is actively closing the performance and perception gap between electric racing and traditional top-tier categories. Gaining direct validation and data from world-class drivers serves as a crucial marketing and development lever as Formula E prepares to introduce faster cars and enter major venues like Zandvoort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the performance specifications of the Formula E Gen4 car?
The Gen4 car features permanent all-wheel drive, delivering 450kW of power during standard race conditions and up to 600kW when Attack Mode is deployed, making it the most powerful vehicle in the history of the championship.
Has Max Verstappen formally agreed to test or race the Gen4 car?
No formal discussions have taken place regarding a test, and Verstappen has not agreed to an outing. Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds has simply stated that he would welcome the chance to secure Verstappen’s technical feedback and noted potential synergy with Verstappen’s sim-to-track racing initiatives.
When will Formula E race in the Netherlands?
Formula E is scheduled to make its Dutch debut in June 2027, hosting a double-header round at the Zandvoort circuit.
