The NIO 333 Formula E Team, partnered by Acronis, will be looking to continue their solid start to the 2021 season by impressing at the most iconic of all circuits for the Monaco ePrix.
Monaco has hosted races around the Principality ever since 1929 and for the first time in the world’s premier electric racing series, the cars will compete on the full layout of the world’s most iconic street circuit for the first time.
Since 2015, Formula E has raced on a shortened circuit. But for the 2021 edition, fans will see the NIO 333 001 cars of Oliver Turvey and Tom Blomqvist zipping up the famous hill after the first turn at Sainte Devote and complete a new section of the circuit for Formula E which includes the iconic Casino Square, Mirabeau, the Grand Hotel Hairpin and Portier.
“I don’t think there is a motor racing fan alive who would not be excited by the thoughts of going to race at Monaco,” commented Christian Silk, NIO 333 Formula E Team Principal. “Over the years I have been there many times and am still thrilled to be returning. During this time I have experienced the highs and lows of racing, from working 72 hours straight to get the car built only for it to crash on the first lap (I may have shed a tear) to some memorable wins.
“To be racing the NIO 333 Formula E cars around the full length of the historic circuit is a real honour, one that the whole team is looking forwards to. The great performances during the last race in Valencia only heightens the expectation.”
For stalwart NIO driver Oliver Turvey, the experience of racing around Monaco is nothing new and the Englishman has even won at the Principality, taking victory in the 2009 Formula Renault 3.5 category.
“It’s always special to race in Monaco, this year I can’t wait to be able to race NIO 333 Formula E car on the full street circuit! Having won on the Grand Prix track previously, I have very fond memories of these iconic streets,” said Turvey. “After an encouraging weekend in Valencia with two strong races, I am aiming to continue this momentum into Monaco to fight for Superpole again and more points for the team.”
In contrast, for new team driver Tom Blomqvist, the Monaco circuit represents an entirely new challenge but is unsurprisingly one that the Anglo-Swede is looking forward to.
“Monaco itself doesn’t need any introduction! It’s pretty awesome that Formula E is racing on the full circuit. I have never raced there myself so that’s going to be really exciting. The team had a good result in Valencia with Oliver; I had a troubling weekend in terms of the races, so hopefully we’ve learned what went on there and we can have a solid weekend in Monte Carlo. That’s the main goal. It’s going to be a cool weekend, a cool experience racing on the full track – it’s going to be fun!”