Porsche Leaves LMP1 for Formula E
They came, they saw, they conquered, and now they’re done.
After a triumphant return to the World Endurance Championship’s top-tier LMP1 class, Porsche has announced that it is planning to exit the series after the end of this season. The news follows a prior announcement that they would depart after the 2018 season, now opting to leave one year earlier.
This comes after Audi opted to leave LMP1 at the end of last year. With only Toyota left in LMP1, the future of the class is uncertain.
Starting in 2019, Porsche intends to compete in Formula E, the cutting-edge, all-electric racing series. When you think about it, it’s a logical progression for Porsche to go from the successful hybrid electric 919 race car to a full-electric Formula E car. Simply put, they proved their success and dominance and are prepared to move on.
Audi is also now competing in Formula E. It’s a good image booster for both companies, who, as part of the Volkswagen group, were on the fringes of the massive Dieselgate scandal that recently rocked the industry. Mercedes-Benz has recently announced that they are joining Formula E in 2019 as well.
It’s clear that manufacturers hope that the lessons learned in Formuala E will trickle down into road cars and hasten development of the next generation of automotive technology. In Formula E, all teams use the same car, but the drivetrain and electric motor can be modified and developed individually. Each team’s car will be slightly and subtly different.
Even though the series is just now completing its third season, manufacturers such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Jaguar are participating with full factory support. Porsche will have its hands full with stiff competition from all sides.
Hopefully, Porsche’s giant-killing history will repeat itself in the form of Formula E success, which can only mean better road cars in the future. While we will miss the familiar flat-six whine, we’re cartainly looking for the sort of immediate kick only an electric motor can provide.
