Formula E GEN 4 car gets first running at Le Castellet in France

The dawning of a new era in the world’s premier single seat electric racing season has begun as the Formula E GEN 4 car hit the track at Le Castellet in France with James Rossiter behind the wheel.

LE CASTELLET, FRANCE – APRIL 21: James Rossiter of Great Britain driving the GEN4 Formula E car at Circuit Paul Ricard on April 21, 2026 in Le Castellet, France. (Photo by Simon Galloway/LAT Images)

Currently into its 11th season, the series has evolved through three generations of machinery. Although not racing until the 2026/27 season, the GEN 4 car has impressive numbers in terms of power output.

According to the official press release, the car will reach speeds of ‘over 335kph and 0-200kph in 4.4 seconds, with a 71% increase in power in ATTACK MODE compared to its predecessor’.

It will also be the first 100% recyclable car with at least 20% recycled materials across key components.

“GEN4 isn’t just a car, it’s a bold declaration of our ambition,” commented Jeff Dodds, CEO, Formula E.

“Seeing what it can do on track for the first time is a real milestone for Formula E – we are now delivering performance levels that were thought impossible for electric vehicles just five years ago.

LE CASTELLET, FRANCE – APRIL 21: A general view of the GEN4 Formula E car during the Formula E GEN4 Launch at Circuit Paul Ricard on April 21, 2026 in Le Castellet, France. (Photo by Simon Galloway/LAT Images)

“The step up in performance is immediately clear, from the speed and power to the way it delivers on track, and there was a genuine buzz among everyone who witnessed it.

“This is a hugely exciting moment for the Championship as we head into the upcoming 2026/27 Season, and a clear signal of where we are headed.

“GEN4 isn’t just an evolution, it’s a step-change in innovation and performance that will redefine motorsport for years to come.”


The GEN4 car will also set the fastest-ever lap times seen in Formula E, predicted to be five seconds per lap faster on street circuits compared to the GEN3 Evo.

“The new GEN4 Formula E car marks a significant step forward for electric racing, setting a new global benchmark for performance, innovation, and sustainability,” added H.E. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).


“It is not simply just a fast car, it is a statement of intent about the future of this technology. I am proud that the FIA and its partners in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship are leading this vision.

“Collaboration has been central to the development of this car, and it will continue to be at the heart of a new era for the championship defined by greater performance, road relevance, and excitement.

“We are redefining what is possible alongside some of the world’s biggest automotive manufacturers using the laboratory of motorsport.”



Fraser Masefield

Fraser is a sports and motorsports editor with over 25 years experience. The former head editor of WilliamsF1, BMW Motorsport, Jaguar Racing and Virgin Media, he has also worked for Autosport, ESPNF1 and Eurosport amongst others.