Formula E to introduce new “Pit Boost” feature for Season 11

Written by Jacob Awcock, Edited by Vyas Ponnuri

Formula E has confirmed that the highly anticipated Pit Boost system will be implemented at the next round of the season in Jeddah and will be continued for the remainder of the season.

Pit Boost has undergone rigorous testing in order to ensure its safety for teams and drivers | Credit: Formula E

First touted to be introduced at the dawn of the Gen3 era, the fast charging phenomenon was later speculated to make its debut in season ten, before Formula E shelved the move for the season. 

However, after a successful pre-season test in Jarama, and a further shakedown in Mexico City later, this feature, dubbed the PIT BOOST, will make its much anticipated debut in Formula E’s Jeddah weekend in mid-February. 

Following Formula E’s meeting, Pit Boost will be introduced across double headers in season 11, with the feature set to be used in one of the two races of a regular double header weekend. 

Formula E will visit several locations for double headers, including the upcoming weekend in Jeddah, apart from the European rounds in Monaco and Berlin, the Asian leg involving Tokyo and Shanghai, and the season finale in London. 

The system, which has been in the pipeline for some time, will feature a new mid-race strategic gamble where teams are required to have a 34-second stationary pit stop which includes a 30-second 600 KW (Kilo Watts) recharge, providing an additional 10% (3.85KW) of energy to race cars.

The new feature has been implemented in an attempt to redefine the strategic aspect of Formula E, and coincides with the revitalised attack mode system that debuted in the opening round of the season. 

Now, teams are required to balance two strategic elements, and will have to consider whether they should risk taking the energy boost, yet losing track position.

Alberto Longo, Co-Founder and Chief Championship Officer said: “After an extensive testing and simulation process, we’re pleased to finally present this game-changing technology to the world. 

It marks one of the most ambitious and impactful additions not just to this series, but modern day motorsport.

“PIT BOOST will challenge teams and drivers to make high-stakes decisions under intense pressure. 

“The potential for dramatic overtakes, unexpected twists, and human ingenuity will elevate the excitement for our fans and showcase Formula E and the FIA’s relentless commitment to innovation,” Longo continued. 

Only two team members will be permitted to work on the car during the Pit Boost recharge | Credits: Formula E 

The Pit Boost system highlights the innovative nature of Formula E and motorsport as the series continues to lead the charge in electric racing. Pit Boost features two key challenges in the electric motorsport world: Charging speed and time. 

Adding to the challenge, only two pit-crew members will be permitted to work on the car during the Pit Boost with an additional member assigned to stop and release the car. It brings pit-lane action back to Formula E following the removal of driver swaps in 2018.

The system will debut in the next round in Jeddah on the 14-15 February 2025, and will be mandatory for all drivers to use.