Formula E invests in radical new electric SUV off-road motorsport series

Formula E has today announced that it has become a minority shareholder in Extreme E – the radical new off-road motorsport which will see electric SUVs competing in remote ecosystems around the world.

United in their founding purpose to counteract climate change by accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles, Formula E and Extreme E have a natural strategic alliance which has been formalised by Formula E’s investment. The partnership demonstrates an extension of Formula E’s commitment to developing EVs and sustainable mobility technologies, including now through Extreme E, which is set to trial electric SUVs in some of the most testing off-road conditions in the world.

What is Extreme E?
Extreme E is a radical new racing series, which will see electric SUVs competing in extreme environments around the world which have already been damaged or affected by climate and environmental issues. The five-race global voyage highlights the impact of climate change and human interference in some of the world’s most remote locations and promotes the adoption of EVs in the quest for a lower carbon future for the planet. 

To minimise local impact, Extreme E races will not be open to spectators, with fans instead invited to follow the action through live TV broadcast, and on social media.

Formula E and Extreme E have a common ambition to fight climate change, accelerate the transition to electric mobility and use their platforms to catalyse positive change for generations to come. Their distinct but complementary products mean each benefit from amplifying the other. Both series are all-electric motorsports, with Formula E operating the open-wheel single-seater FIA world championship competing in iconic international city centres, while Extreme E is a radical rally-raid showcasing the abilities of electric SUVs against the backdrop of remote ecosystems.

With Formula E’s minority investment comes a seat on the Extreme E Board of Directors which will be held by Formula E CEO Jamie Reigle. While the two businesses remain independent, the close collaboration of their leadership will allow a truly strategic partnership, as Extreme E CEO and Formula E Founder Alejandro Agag also retains the role of Formula E chairman.

According to James Reigle, CEO of Formula E and Board director of Extreme E, “Formula E and Extreme E stand out as sports founded with purpose. As we both race for better futures, a strategic partnership with Extreme E is a natural progression for Formula E. We are joining forces in our fight against climate change, while each continuing on our independent and complementary sporting paths. It’s an honour for me to be invited to join Extreme E’s Board of Directors and I’m committed to delivering the greatest impact for both businesses as we light up the world with the transformative power of electric racing."

Formula E and Extreme E come together ahead of a momentous year for both series, with the debut of the 2020/21 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship taking place in Santiago on January 16 and 17, 2021 just before the start of Extreme E’s first season, which kicks off in Saudi Arabia on March 21.

Season 1 Calendar
Desert X Prix: Al Ula, Saudi Arabia
20-21 March 2021

Ocean X Prix: Lac Rose, Senegal
29-30 May 2021

Arctic X Prix: Kangerlussusaq, Greenland
28-29 August 2021

Amazon X Prix: Para, Brazil
23-24 October 2021

Glacier X Prix: Patagonia, Argentina 
11-12 December 2021

Main image: Courtesy of Formula E