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Extreme
E 2023
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23-12-22 Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky on winning her first Extreme E title
After coming so close to a maiden Extreme E championship in 2022, Rosberg X Racing’s (RXR) Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky finally clinched her first title alongside Johan Kristoffersson in a dramatic season finale in Chile.
Reflecting on claiming her first series championship at the third attempt, the Swede talked to Extreme E about bouncing back after the disappointment of missing out last term, her partnership with Kristoffersson, learning from team owner and Formula One world champion Nico Rosberg, and revisiting ‘that’ final lap in the Atacama Desert to seal the title ahead of ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE).
Extreme E: After coming so close last year, how did it feel to clinch the Extreme E title in 2023?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: It felt like the culmination of two years of hard work. There was a feeling of ‘yes – we got there in the end and got the win!’. I've always been super happy after the race wins that we have taken with RXR and this time, when we crossed the finish line to take that championship, I just felt a calm within my whole body. I was so happy that we made it, especially after the experience of last year. We had been so strong in Season 2 and then we lost the title right at the last. It was really tough.
Therefore, my goal this year was just to make each point count and take it step by step. It was hard to keep calm and treat it like any other race weekend at the end, but that was what we had to do to stay focused and get the job done. It felt like everything we've been doing over the last two years paid off.
Extreme E: What did you do over the off-season to help bounce back after 2022?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: I'm going to be really honest - it was so tough after Uruguay last year. I do feel like I'm generally a positive person and I tried to think positive and stay strong, but it took me quite some time to get the motivation back. Of course, I always knew from the moment we lost the championship last year that I wanted to win it this year, but it took me some time to get that energy back and be fully recharged for the season. I did spend a lot of time with my family and my friends over Christmas and that gave me a lot of energy.
Once things had settled and a bit more time had passed since that final race, I could look back at Uruguay in a different way. I tried to analyse what I could have done better and what I would change for next time, because there's always something to learn. And I definitely feel that the experience from Uruguay last year helped me so much with the season finale this year.
Once the energy was back and I started to work with the team again, I was fully focused and looking ahead to what was possible for the 2023 season. Time off with family and friends to recharge was definitely the first step in getting my motivation back.
Extreme E: Did you have a different game plan going into the new season?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: With the new racing format we had to think in a different way. We knew that it was so important to get to the Grand Final in each round and so that was the main focus for us. With even more racing out on track, we had to look for advantages and the smallest improvements to get ahead. We would look at all of the places where you could gain a little bit of time, such as in the Switch Zone or entering the Switch Zone, or other overtaking possibilities. As a result we saw the race weekend in a completely different way.
Extreme E: Season 3 was anticipated to be the most competitive yet, did it feel like that for you?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: We knew it was going to be tough. It was so competitive, expecially with a lot more racing. There were five teams heading into the final event that could win the championship. That's pretty crazy if you think about it! So it's been super competitive.
And also, if you look at the increase of speed when it comes to the women drivers, everybody across the championship has really upped their game. It has been a really hard season. All of the teams have a possibility to win a race because there's so many good teams and drivers, which makes it even more rewarding.
Extreme E: Last year, Nico [Rosberg] described you as the fastest woman driver on the planet. You mentioned the gap between all of the drivers has definitely closed up – is that showing that the series’ gender-equal format is working?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: Definitely. From just looking at the times it is clear and I would say all of the drivers feel it’s so much closer. I think that is because we have got more experienced with the car.
Everyone is more comfortable. If you look back to Season 1 we had much less track time. By being in the car more, you can start to really explore the limits of the car and what you can do when racing out on course. And that has kept progressing.
To be able to work with RXR, which is such a great team, and then have the experience of Johan and Nico alongside you, with all of their skills, has been vital. And I think that's also one of the most important things with Extreme E. It has given women drivers the opportunity to work with so much motorsport experience. And I think that is a reason why we have seen the development from Season 1 to Season 3.
Extreme E: You started with two third-place finishes in Saudi Arabia and then did not reach the top three in Scotland. Did you change your mentality at all throughout that opening period?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: We did not always maximise our speed, like having that miscommunication in Saudi Arabia to lose the win in the opening round. We always kept pushing, though, to try and find ways to improve and learn for the next event. I also think one of the key things about Extreme E is that anything can happen. You just have to keep going all of the time.
For instance, at the first event in Sardinia this year, in Free Practice 2 I went a bit wide over a jump. We got a puncture, which meant there was very little track tme for us. I was a bit down when I came into the garage, but one of our mechanics turned to me and said ‘don’t worry, put on a smile because we will be smiling on Sunday’. And we were! It is so important in Extreme E to have good team spirit and remain positive because it can turn around so quickly.
Extreme E: You took two wins and a podium from the four rounds in Sardinia. What has made you so quick there over the years?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: I think we had a really good test and feeling ahead of Sardinia last year and we were really competitive on track as a consequence. Whenever you go to place where you had good results previously, you then return with a bit more confidence. Knowing we were really strong there served us well. With only a few laps out on track before the racing starts, having that confidence in the car is just so important.
We felt similarly about Chile, too, when we watched our onboards ahead of the season finale. There is visual proof that you were stong the year before, so it gives you that little bit of confidence going into the weekend.
Extreme E: How much of a motivating factor has Nico been during this title battle?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: He is always following our progress and giving us advice. You could be driving back from the track, and he will be on the phone with thoughts and suggestions, about what to focus on and keeping a close eye on all of the little details to seek improvements. You have to keep pushing in Extreme E because it is such a competitive field.
Nico is always there to make sure that we never stop developing ourselves and find ways to keep improving. It is also just a few points between some of the top teams in the championship, so there needs to be a balancing act between not taking too many risks and not being too cautious. And Nico was very supportive in that regard.
Extreme E: You entered the season finale in Chile behind in the standings, but after the first day of racing you lead the championship. Could you feel that momentum switch and move towards you?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: No – I would say our mindset was the same across the whole weekend. Of course, it felt great to take that win and secure a lot of points. And you're then even closer to taking that title. But we knew there was still so many points up for grabs and that was when it really counted, so we just had to stay in the zone. It was a good step, but nothing more with one race still to go. We had the confidence, but we also needed to reset and do it all over again in the final round. And hopefully then we could celebrate after the last race!
Extreme E: In 2022, you had the chance to win the championship in both Chile and Uruguay. You also had to watch from the sidelines in that season finale in Punte del Este last year as you did not make the Final. Did you feel better about it knowing that you were taking part in that last race and that it was in your hands?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: I felt much better about it. Johan said before the start, ‘this is the closest we are to the title’. And I said ‘no, last year we had a lot of points as well’ and he replied ‘yeah, but then we were sitting watching the Final. Now we are in the Final’. It was a totally different feeling. This was the closest way of affecting the race to take the championship.
We make a really good team out on track. We have different approaches and I feel they compliment each other really well. From my side, heading into Chile I was focused on not making too many big risks or mistakes because I wanted to ensure that once the season was over I had felt that I had done my very best. And if that means we win, we win. And if it doesn't, it doesn't.
Johan also said ‘in the end, all we can do is our best and the world will keep on spinning when we get back home, whether it's as champions or in second place’. It was a good approach.
Extreme E: It was a dramatic final race of the 2023 season. What are your recollections of it now?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: At first, when Johan nearly rolled and got the puncture, I thought the title had gone. However, in a split second I thought, ‘I am going to go out there and I am going to race like I have never raced in my whole life’. It was like a killer instinct mode that just went into my head. And so no, I never thought it's over. Never giving up really is the team mentality.
The guys made a great tyre switch and Johan want went out tried to push for the Continental Traction Challenge points. That's when the car broke, but he managed to get back it to the Switch Zone. Even then, I just kept on thinking that I had to drive and do what we can do with the situation that we have and let's see what happens.
As I left the Switch Zone I saw a spin up ahead, and over the radio I was told that it was Laia [Sanz – ASXE] who had gone off. And then I passed her as she spun again, before hearing on the radio that Laia rolled the car. Thankfully she was okay and that was the most important thing. Then I was told to keep driving and bring the car home, and that it was looking good. It took so long to get to the finish line with the technical problems we had.
And then we made it – we finished the race. I asked two or three times just to confirm, ‘are we champions?’. When they did it was just such a range of emotions. There were tears, and I was so happy, but I also felt a calmness because of what we had been through. It was for everyone who had put so much work into achieving this, across the team and our partners for making it possible. There was so much joy.
Extreme E: What was the first thing Johan and Nico said after taking the chequered flag?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: Johan was overjoyed. He shouted ‘I need to see how happy you are!’ and I was so made up. As for Nico, I found out from one of our team who had received a text from him during the final lap that he’d asked me to slow down because he was also scared that I would break the car. So I saw these ‘slow down, slow down, slow down!’ messages, which was quite funny. And then he congratulated us, saying he was so happy and so proud of all the work that we've all been putting in at RXR.
Extreme E: How did it feel to realise that championship dream at the second time of asking?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: It is the biggest achievement so far in my career. I was delighted to be asked to join RXR after they won the first championship, and looking back fighting for the Season 2 title was an important experience. It was great that they still believed in me to fight for the title once more this year, and I was so happy to finally get it. It means so much. The level of talent is so high, racing with so many world champions, it is a great feeling.
For RXR it is fantastic as well to have taken two championships in three Extreme E seasons. That I think is a great achievement and really shows the whole spirit, atmosphere, strength and unity across the team.
Extreme E: What is your mentality like now in terms of preparing to go again and secure another championship?
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky: That would be amazing. Of course, nothing has been finalised for 2024, but I really hope to be back that’s for sure. Nevertheless, I am still in a little bit of a bubble following the championship victory.
I've been fighting for this for so many years, almost my whole life, and so I will look at these trophies and still enjoy it for a little while yet. But then attentions will turn to next season and I will hopefully be back out there and ready to help take the championship again.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-12-21 Extreme E announces Season 4 calendar
Extreme E has revealed its calendar for the upcoming 2024 season, as the pioneering off-road racing championship gears up for its fourth campaign.
Extreme E’s latest instalment will kick off on the sands of Saudi Arabia once again, as the new season opens against a stunning desert backdrop on 17-18 February for Rounds 1 and 2 at a new location near Jeddah.
The championship’s next three X Prix will take place across Europe, with the location of Rounds 3 and 4 on 13-14 July to be announced in the new year.
The series will then play host to back-to-back rounds in Sardinia in September, which has become a firm fixture on the Extreme E calendar and an ever-present since its inception in 2021. Extreme E will return to the Italian island for Rounds 5 and 6, and 7 and 8 of the 2024 campaign for what promises to be another thrilling spectacle in the Mediterranean, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The Sardinian rounds will also be the setting for demonstration and testing of the Extreme H cars ahead of their full debut in 2025. Extreme H will be the world’s first off-road racing series to be powered by hydrogen, with preparations well underway ahead of the championship’s launch in just over a year’s time.
The conclusion of Season 4 will take place in Phoenix, Arizona, in late November, as the championship makes its historic debut in the USA.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “We are delighted to unveil our calendar for Extreme E Season 4. If the 2024 campaign is anything like our first three, then our fans are going to be in for something special.
“We are looking forward to returning to Saudi Arabia for the opening rounds of the new season. Saudi Arabia has always delivered a thrilling spectacle on track, and we are expecting more of the same in February at an exciting new location near Jeddah.
“The location of our European race in July will be announced soon. While we continue a dedicated testing programme of the new Extreme H car, holding spectacular races across the European continent during the middle leg of the season is important for streamlining our operations, and so we are excited to return to Sardinia in September. I would like to thank the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna for their unwavering support for our series, and a double-header on the Italian island is a prospect we are all looking forward to. Sardinia is also likely to be the setting of the Extreme H car’s first public laps on an off-road race course, which will be an historic moment for motorsport and hydrogen power.
“To head to the USA for the first time for our season finale is an important milestone for our series and a fitting conclusion to the year. It is a key market for us and there is plenty of passion for off-road racing across the country, so we are looking forward to Extreme E’s debut in North America which will likely crown the victors of the championship.”
Season 3 Calendar
Saudi Arabia: 11-12 March 2023
Scotland, UK: 13-14 May 2023
Sardinia, Italy: 08-09 July 2023
Sardinia, Italy: 16-17 September 2023
Chile: 02-03 December 2023
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-12-19 Extreme H completes successful shakedown of its first prototype
Extreme H has completed the first major milestone in its development, having successfully carried out a shakedown of the series’ first prototype chassis ahead of the launch of the new championship in 2025.
For the first time, Extreme H can reveal a teaser of its hydrogen-powered prototype which recently undertook its debut laps out on track during testing.
Ahead of the launch of the Extreme H chassis later in 2024, a rigorous testing programme is now underway to ensure the championship – the first-ever off-road hydrogen racing series – is ready for its debut in just over a years’ time.
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Its current incumbent, Extreme E, was designed to be a testbed for innovation and solutions for mobility. The transition to hydrogen-powered racing and the Extreme H series is a natural evolution of the series’ overarching mission to showcase the possibilities of new technologies in the race to fight climate issues, support decarbonisation and develop applications outside of motorsport.
Extreme H cars will be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell from the start of the 2025 season.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “Completing this initial first shakedown of the Extreme H prototype ahead of schedule is a sign of strong progress being made as we prepare for the launch of Extreme H in 2025. We are thrilled to reveal the first look at our hydrogen-powered concept, which we feel is going to be ground-breaking in motorsport.
“This a hugely important first step as we transition towards an exciting hydrogen future and launch the first-ever off-road hydrogen racing world championship.”
Mark Grain, Technical Director of Extreme E, added: “Preparations for the launch of Extreme H are well underway, and undertaking a successful first shakedown of the prototype chassis for the series is a critical milestone.
“It is has been huge team effort, and this first step would not have been achieved without the support from Spark Racing Technology who have delivered impressively. There is still plenty of work to be done ahead of the launch of Extreme H in 2025, but we are pleased with the progress of our concept, which believe will deliver strong performance levels and break the mould in terms of innovation not just in motorsport, but with potential for the future of mobility more widely.”
The FIA Formula One World Championship (F1), the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and Extreme H recently announced plans to establish a joint Hydrogen Working Group.
The group, comprised of representatives from all three organisations including Mark Grain, Extreme E Technical Director – who is leading the series’ transition to Extreme H – Pat Symonds, F1 Chief Technical Officer, and Nikolas Tombazis, FIA Single Seater Director, will bring together their collective expertise in a strategic alliance to evaluate developments and potential applications for hydrogen within motorsport and wider mobility.
Earlier this year, a pathway was established for Extreme H to become an FIA Championship from its inaugural season in 2025, with the intention that it will become an FIA World Championship from 2026, should the requisite criteria be met. This planned pathway to FIA World Championship status demonstrates the series’ progression since its inception in 2021 and a strong statement of intent for its growth towards its hydrogen-powered future.
As a result, Extreme H would join the company of just seven other official FIA World Championships, which put it in the same bracket as Formula One and Formula E in terms of motorsport recognition.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-12-15 What could have been in Season 3 for third-placed Veloce Racing
Veloce Racing came tantalisingly close to a maiden Extreme E championship title in Chile. The British squad entered the Season 3 finale third in the standings, but an incident-packed Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix meant the team ultimately came up short in the championship decider. Here’s how the Season 3 title slipped away from Veloce Racing’s grasp.
Extreme E Season 3 saw the Veloce Racing team secure the same number of wins as two-time champions Rosberg X Racing (RXR). Taking three victories in a year that saw five teams in the title fight indicates just how close Veloce Racing was to taking home the Season 3 trophy.
In their most successful campaign to date, the team not only stood on the top step of the podium three times, but also secured a debut first-place finish, with Molly Taylor and Kevin Hansen securing a healthy number of points and podiums over the course of Season 3.
The London-based outfit entered the Season 3 finale in Chile mathematically within reach of the top spot, sitting just 21 points behind leaders ASXE. However, misfortune for the team in Round 9 denied Veloce Racing their first-ever Extreme E title.
Hansen and Taylor started Round 9 strongly, comfortably winning the very first Heat of the day with an eye-catching new chrome livery, voted for by VEXT token holders. Hansen performed a striking overtake on fellow Swede and eventual Season 3 champion, RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson, in the opening stages to help secure a positive start and an extra championship point for Veloce Racing.
In the next Qualifying Heat it was Taylor’s turn to strike, as the Australian charged off the line to take an early lead. A red flag in the first corner, which saw a roll for ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson, meant a restart. Taylor appeared unfazed, as the Australian surged into the lead once again.
Taylor remained ahead throughout the opening lap, before a puncture and broken suspension allowed ASXE’s Sanz to shoot round on the outside at the start of lap two.
The situation worsened for Veloce Racing, though, as Munnings, unaware of Taylor slowing down, launched her Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E ODYSSEY 21 over the top of the Veloce car. This brought about the second red flag of the Heat and an end to both teams' races.
Nevertheless, Veloce Racing still had enough points for a Grand Final appearance. With hopes high for a podium result, having won GridPlay and securing a strong spot on the start the line, the team suffered another DNF due to damage suffered in Qualifying.
Fifth-place for the London-based team in the penultimate round of Season 3 put Veloce Racing just out of reach of a maiden championship title, with the squad's nearest rivals RXR and ASXE finishing first and second, respectively.
Just as the team started off Season 3 strongly with a win, they ended it with a victory, too. Kicking off Round 10 in positive fashion, Hansen and Taylor finished their Qualifying 1 Heat in second, hot on the heels of ASXE after several striking overtakes from Hansen. Delivering strong starts throughout the weekend, the second Qualifying session proved no different as Taylor stormed to the front of the pack in Q2 Heat 1.
In the Round 10 Grand Final Hansen held his ground ahead of RXR's Kristofferson to take second place behind ASXE's Mattias Ekström. Taylor took over in a prime position, and the Australian deployed her ENOWA Hyperdrive at the exit to the Switch Zone to the lead from ASXE's Laia Sanz to end a strong Season 3 campaign with a third win and a third-place finish in the championship.
Veloce Racing ended the campaign just 27 points adrift of 2023 champions RXR.
Molly Taylor, Veloce Racing driver, said: “It feels amazing to end the season with a victory here in Chile. This course really suited Kevin and myself, and we showed race winning pace throughout the double-header. The team executed everything perfectly today and they truly deserve this victory. While it stung to fall short of a maiden Extreme E title, our campaign this year has been so strong and we will be riding this momentum into 2024."
Kevin Hansen, Veloce Racing driver, said: “This is the perfect end to such a great season with the team. We had a frustrating time in Round 9 where we fell out of contention for the Extreme E title despite showing race winning pace, but I'm so happy we could repay the team with what is our third victory this year. For Molly, myself, and the team to make it into the top three in our first full campaign together is an amazing achievement, and there is so much for us to build on heading into next season."
Dan Bailey, CEO, Veloce Racing, added: “While we missed out on our maiden Extreme E title there is still so much for Veloce Racing to be proud of. Kevin and Molly put on a stellar performance over the weekend, and the team worked tirelessly to provide a race winning car. The same can be said for the whole season, as we found ourselves wheel-to-wheel with the best on the grid, never dropping out of the top three in the championship standings.
"Our attention has already switched to Season 4 and we'll be looking to build upon our three victories this year and convert our pace into an Extreme E championship trophy."
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
Season 3 Calendar
Saudi Arabia: 11-12 March 2023
Scotland, UK: 13-14 May 2023
Sardinia, Italy: 08-09 July 2023
Sardinia, Italy: 16-17 September 2023
Chile: 02-03 December 2023
23-12-12 Tanner Foust and Emma Gilmour to leave NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team following 2023 season
Tanner Foust and Emma Gilmour are to leave the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team following the end of the 2023 season.
Competing together since the team's inception and inaugural race in 2022, Foust and Gilmour managed to pick up two second-place finishes during their time with NEOM McLaren XE, achieving their best championship results in Extreme E Season 2 with fifth in the standings.
A maiden podium came at the Season 2 finale in Uruguay, and the duo went on to snatch a podium on home-soil for the team at the Hydro X Prix earlier this year. Last time out in Chile they finished fourth and fifth across the double-header weekend, with Hedda Hosås deputising for Gilmour following her accident at the Island X Prix in September.
The NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team will be revealing its 2024 driver line-up in due course, as the British outfit looks to climb the leaderboard in Season 4 and secure its first X Prix victory.
Emma Gilmour said: “As a Kiwi, it has been unbelievably special to have driven for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team for the past two years, and to make history as McLaren Racing’s first ever female driver. It was amazing to race in some of the most extreme locations in the world, including Saudi Arabia, Chile and Uruguay, and to come through to secure those hard-fought podiums. I’m grateful for the team’s incredible support and for the unforgettable highlights we enjoyed together. I wish everyone at McLaren Racing all the best."
Tanner Foust said: “It has been an honour to drive for a team with such a great motorsport lineage as NEOM McLaren. It has been a privilege to compete for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team for the last two years, in addition to other opportunities with the Heritage programme. I have had the opportunity to drive cars that I never thought I’d drive in my life, and the podiums in Uruguay and Scotland were a big highlight. I wish everyone at the team all the best, and I would like to thank them for the incredible support they’ve provided for me during the past two years.”
Ian James, Managing Director, NEOM McLaren Electric Racing, said: “It’s been an absolute pleasure working together with both Emma and Tanner. They are not only incredibly talented racing drivers, but also great personalities that made every race weekend a pleasure to attend. Since McLaren Racing joined the Extreme E Championship two years ago, it’s been a steep learning curve and challenging journey for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team. Both drivers have been a key part of the development process and they have grown together with the team. Although the results haven’t always reflected just how far we’ve come, both Emma and Tanner have made a significant contribution to the team’s future success. I feel fortunate to have had both as part of the team and can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.”
Gary Paffett, Sporting Director, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team said: “On behalf of the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, I’d like to thank Emma and Tanner for all their incredible work over the past two years. With their help, we’ve established a strong foundation in the Extreme E Championship, and secured two P2 finishes along the way, in Uruguay and Scotland. It’s no secret that we’ve faced some challenges during our time in the championship so far, but their support has been invaluable and we are all incredibly grateful. We wish them all the best for the future.”
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-12-08 Extreme H, FIA and FIA Formula 1 World Championship to establish joint Hydrogen Technical Working Group
The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), the FIA Formula One World Championship and Extreme H, the world’s first off-road hydrogen motor racing championship, which will commence in 2025, have today announced plans to establish a joint Hydrogen Working Group.
The group, comprised of representatives from all three organisations including Mark Grain, Extreme E Technical Director – who is leading the series’ transition to Extreme H – Pat Symonds, F1 Chief Technical Officer, and Nikolas Tombazis, FIA Single Seater Director, will bring together their collective expertise in a strategic alliance to evaluate developments and potential applications for hydrogen within motorsport and wider mobility.
The objective of the Hydrogen Working Group between Formula 1, the FIA and Extreme H is to monitor the progression and development of hydrogen technology – both for the fuel cells and battery systems which will be used in Extreme H’s first-generation racing chassis – as well as hydrogen technology within race site infrastructure, transportation, charging, storage and management, and its safety implications.
Extreme E, which debuted in 2021, has already established itself as a leader in sustainable technologies, with a unique racing format that combines off-road racing in electric SUVs, a mandatory gender-equal driver line-up in each team, and a mission to highlight climate change issues and environmental impact. In March 2022, it announced plans to transition to the first-ever hydrogen-powered racing series – Extreme H – from the 2025 season.
Development of the first Extreme H series is underway, with plans in place to launch a prototype hydrogen-powered chassis with its partner Spark with a first full-speed shakedown towards the end of this year, ahead of a comprehensive testing programme in early 2024.
Alongside the FIA, Extreme E has agreed a pathway for the hydrogen series, Extreme H, to become an FIA Championship from its inaugural season in 2025, with the intention that it will become an FIA World Championship from 2026. This planned framework leading to FIA World Championship status, pending the relevant approvals by the FIA World Motor Sport Council, demonstrates the series’ progression since its inception in 2021 and a strong statement of intent for its growth towards its hydrogen-powered future.
As technical regulator and sporting authority of the Extreme E championship, the FIA will be responsible for all technical, sporting and safety regulations for the competition.
There is already plenty of crossover as well as scope for cooperation in the alliance between F1 and Extreme E: three of Extreme E’s teams are owned by F1 World Champions Sir Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg and Jenson Button, and McLaren Racing has teams both in Extreme E and Formula E. The two organisations are aligned in their commitment to the development of sustainable technologies, climate change and impact awareness, as well as increased diversity within motorsport.
Mark Grain, Technical Director, Extreme E, said: “It’s a privilege to be working alongside Formula 1 and the FIA as we continue to develop our world-first hydrogen racing proposition. Our transition to Extreme H makes us the pioneers and first-ever testbed of hydrogen technology in motorsport – not only in our racing cars, but also transportation, infrastructure, refuelling processes and safety regulations. It’s a ground-breaking initiative and we look forward to collaborating with Formula 1 and Pat [Symonds] both technically and operationally, as we continue to champion new technologies and break boundaries on behalf of motorsport, with hydrogen at the forefront.”
Nikolas Tombazis, FIA Single Seater Director, said: “As the governing body for both the FIA Formula 1 World Championship and the upcoming FIA Extreme H Championship in 2025, we welcome this latest collaboration. The FIA Technical Department has experience and knowhow in the area of hydrogen technology which we will be bring to the Working Group along with sporting, safety and regulatory expertise. As is currently the case across the entire FIA motorsport portfolio, we will take learnings from this collaboration for the benefit of our sport and mobility.”
Pat Symonds, Chief Technical Officer, Formula 1, said: “Our sport has a tradition of bringing new technologies to the forefront of public perception in incredibly short timescales. We do this by being open-minded to all solutions and embracing cross-functional engineering. With climate change mitigation at the forefront of everyone’s mind we are committed to promoting sustainability and therefore need to explore all areas of decarbonisation of the mobility sector. This must include sustainable liquid hydrocarbon fuels, electrification and hydrogen. This Working Group enables a collaboration which will allow us to gain first-hand experience and contribute to the understanding and development of the many aspects of hydrogen propulsion that Extreme H will embrace.”
The first sport to ever be built out of a social purpose, Extreme E – and the FIA Extreme H Championship from 2025 – aims to minimise environmental impact while maximising awareness, racing in places that have already been damaged or affected by climate change or human interference, and taking fans deep into the heart of the most pressing issues facing our planet’s future.
Further details about the forthcoming FIA Extreme H Championship and its chassis development will be revealed in due course, with chassis testing to commence in the coming weeks.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-12-04 Rosberg X Racing secure second Extreme E title at Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in dramatic season finale
Rosberg X Racing (RXR) secured a dramatic second Extreme E championship at the final round of the 2023 season in Chile.
Nico Rosberg's outfit took the title, their second in three seasons, in a rollercoaster Grand Final at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, crossing the finish line in second place despite a severely damaged ODYSSEY 21.
The race saw nearest rivals ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE) retire after Laia Sanz rolled in the closing stages. Their retirement from the Grand Final meant ASXE did not secure enough points for a maiden championship victory.
Winners of the final round of Season 3 were Veloce Racing, with their third victory of 2023 securing a top-three finish in the championship standings. Completing the Round 10 podium positions were Season 2 champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing.
In the Redemption Race, Amanda Sorensen and RJ Anderson ended their first full Extreme E campaign with a race win as No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing recovered from a difficult Round 9 to end the season a higher note.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, RXR, said: "Winning the 2023 Extreme E Championship is a dream come true. It was neck to neck all season with ASXE, but I'm just so happy and speechless right now. We fought so hard last year and narrowly missed the win, so it was stressful when I saw that we had a puncture. But as always, we never give up. Despite the challenges, our team's spirit never waned. This championship is a powerful reminder that with passion and perseverance, anything is achievable."
Johan Kristoffersson, RXR, said: "After an intense season, winning the Extreme E Championship for a second time is incredible. ASXE put up an impressive fight this season, and I enjoyed every minute of the battles. I want to dedicate this win to Kyle LeDuc, who sadly passed away recently and who we will miss racing against."
Grand Final
The Grand Final was action-packed from the start, with ASXE’s Mattias Ekström taking the lead as his team chased down the points needed to steal the championship title from RXR.
Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen slotted into second, while RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson tried to push his way through the pack into third place. As the Swede muscled his way towards the inside line, he caught the steep banking of the corner and his RXR ODYSSEY 21 veered off-line on two wheels.
Kristoffersson remarkably got the car back under control, albeit in fifth place, and a mammoth task lay ahead as a subsequent puncture forced the team to pit after just one lap, while closest rivals ASXE lead the race.
Ekström entered the Switch Zone in first place, with Veloce Racing’s Hansen hot on his heels. Behind the frontrunners, the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s (NEOM McLaren XE) Tanner Foust fought to slow down his ODYSSEY 21, running into the back of X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell as the pair entered the Switch Zone.
The incident resulted in a time penalty for the American, but this proved irrelevant for NEOM McLaren XE’s race as the damage sustained ensured a retirement from the Grand Final.
The collision also hindered X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s progress. Despite being able to continue, Sir Lewis Hamilton’s outfit had to run at a much reduced pace and dropped down the order.
In the battle for the lead, ASXE’s Sanz and Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor left the Switch Zone almost in unison. It looked like Sanz would maintain the advantage for ASXE, but Taylor got the upper hand by deploying her ENOWA Hyperdrive to snatch first place.
The DNF for NEOM McLaren XE and the damage for X44 Vida Carbon Racing meant that RXR just had to finish the race to take third place and seal the championship, unless Sanz could win back the lead and secure enough points for ASXE’s maiden title. This was to prove difficult, as after leaving the switch zone RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky encountered another problem aboard her ODYSSEY 21 as she wrestled to get the car over the finish line.
Entering the closing stages, Sanz and Taylor made contact as the Spaniard tried to retake first place. Sanz was pushing hard, but soon after the ASXE ODYSSEY 21 reached its limit and entered a spin.
As Sanz recovered to remain in second place, the race and championship win looked ever more elusive. ASXE’s fate was sealed when a few corners later Sanz entered a roll, ending her race and the team’s chances of title glory.
Veloce Racing completed an untroubled run to take a third victory this season and end 2023 in the top three in the championship standings – their best-ever Extreme E result. Behind the race winners, both X44 and RXR continued to struggle, as Åhlin-Kottulinsky crawled around the course with her severely damaged car.
Despite crossing the line over four minutes after Veloce Racing, RXR’s second-place was enough to secure a second Extreme E championship win since their title in the 2021 inaugural season. This marked a valiant effort from both Kristoffersson and Åhlin-Kottulinsky, with the latter winning her first-ever Extreme E title.
Even further back, X44 Vida Carbon Racing were able to cross the line to take the third step on the podium and steal fourth place on the championship leaderboard from No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing.
Redemption Race
Quickest off the mark was No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, having narrowly missed out on the Grand Final based on the team’s Continental Traction Challenge time.
JBXE’s Andreas Bakkerud launched round the outside to slot in behind Anderson, with Timo Scheider running in third for Carl Cox Motorsport ahead of ABT CUPRA XE debutant Adrien Tambay.
Scheider held nothing back as he committed to the inside line, getting past Anderson to take the lead. The American soon regained first place, holding on to a good racing line to muscle his way ahead of the Carl Cox Motorsport driver.
There was more drama to follow, though, as a mechanical failure for the charging Scheider forced the German to pull over, ending Carl Cox Motorsport’s Season 3 campaign with a DNF.
The remaining three teams left the Switch Zone and ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson set her sights on Tamara Molinaro’s JBXE ODYSSEY 21.
The Swede soon completed the overtake, taking second place behind No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing as Sorensen executed a smooth run for Redemption Race victory.
RESULTS
Grand Final
1. Veloce Racing 8:31.760mins
2. Rosberg X Racing +4:19.110mins
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +8:11.502mins
4. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team DNF
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team DNF
Redemption Race
1. No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing 8:34.434mins
2. ABT CUPRA XE +14.909s
3. JBXE +20.993s
4. Carl Cox Motorsport DNF
Championship Standings
1. Rosberg X Racing: 182 points
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 171 points
3. Veloce Racing: 155 points
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 121 points
5. No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 113 points
6. ABT CUPRA XE: 81 points
7. Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E 71 points
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 68 points
9. Carl Cox Motorsport: 50 points
10. JBXE: 50 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-12-03 Dramatisk väg till mästerskapstiteln
Ett osannolikt drama ledde Rosberg X Racing till titeln i Extreme E efter en stenhård kamp mot Acciona Sainz.
- Både vi och Acciona förtjänade att vinna i år, men nu var det vår tur, säger Johan Kristoffersson, som tog sin andra titel i mästerskapet medan det var den första för teamkamraten Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky.
Johan Kristoffersson är i och med segern den ende som har två mästerskapstitlar efter tre säsonger med Extreme E.
Inför helgen i Antofagasta, Chile, hade RXR några poäng att hämta in på ledande Acciona Sainz. Detta ordnade Johan och Mikaela under lördagen, där en vass körning av den värmländska duon ledde till seger i den näst sista deltävlingen.
Det innebar mästerskapsledning med sex poäng inför den avslutande dagen. Någon defilering mot titeln blev det dock sannerligen inte. RXR tvingades jobba från underläge i heaten och Johan fick leverera några patenterade omkörningar för att manövrera teamet till en acceptabel position. Till final tog sig RXR med minsta möjliga marginal, som femte och sista team. I finalen fanns också Acciona Sainz, vilket innebar att det blev en helt avgörande uppgörelse i säsongens sista race.
Kristoffersson inledde för sitt team och fick sämsta möjliga start när han tvingades spela ett högt spel för att avancera i fältet.
- Jag behövde ju göra något extra i första svängen, men det var mycket damm och jag kom för nära vallen, berättar Johan.
Efter ett rejält kast och upp på två hjul verkade det som att Johan skulle rulla, men på ett mirakulöst sätt lyckades han få ner bilen på alla fyra och kunde fortsätta.
- Jag hoppades bara att ingen skulle köra in i mig i det läget.
Kristoffersson kom undan, men hade dragit på sig en punktering. Det blev ett besök i depån för däckbyte istället för att ta upp jakten på motståndarna.
- Vid punkteringen tänkte jag först, jaha, det var det, men vi ger aldrig upp, säger Mikaela som väntade i tävlingscentret.
Johan tog sig fram till växlingen, men över ett varv efter motståndarna.
- Det var inte den bästa överlämningen jag kunde ge till Mikaela…
Men, som Johan sa före tävlingen i Chile: “I Extreme E kan allt hända.” Och det gjorde det. En efter en började även konkurrenterna få problem, till sist även Acciona Sainz. Laia Sanz fick ett kast på bilen och snurrade. När hon skulle ta sig upp på banan blev det även en rullning och därmed var de ute ur leken. För Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky handlade det då bara om att ta bilen i mål, oavsett hur sakta. Och sakta gick det. Aldrig tidigare har hon kört så försiktigt, men heller inte så framgångsrikt. Efter en evighetslång runda, i mål som tvåa, drygt fyra minuter efter segrande Veloce Racing, kunde Åhlin-Kottulinsky ta en bil med kraftigt stukad styrning och hjulupphängning i mål. Som mästare! RXR slutade på 182 poäng, elva poäng före huvudkonkurrenten.
- Jag är så glad för Mikaelas skull, att hon fick göra det där, säger Johan, som har “vanan inne” efter sin seger i Extreme E-mästerskapets första säsong tillsammans med Molly Talylor.
Förra året blev det en hjärtekross i Chile när teamet förlorade titeln i sista racet. Nu gick det vägen.
- Fantastiskt. Ett stort tack till alla i teamet som har lagt ner ett enormt jobb för att göra det här möjligt, säger Johan som alltså avslutar ett enormt framgångsrikt 2023 med ännu en titel, ovanpå den sjätte VM-titeln i rallycross.
- Ett otroligt år, verkligen!
23-12-03 ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team top Qualifying as Season 3 title fight goes down to the wire
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE) progress to the Grand Final of Round 10 at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, finishing as top qualifiers as they hunt down the Extreme E Season 3 title.
ASXE took victory in Qualifying 1 Heat 1, crucialy closing the gap to championship leaders Rosberg X Racing (RXR) to five points, and took second in their Qualifying 2 Heat in what is set to be a dramatic final day of the 2023 campaign in Chile.
RXR finished second in Q1 H1 and third in Q2 H2 behind rivals ASXE, putting them level on points with two other teams. However, a quicker time than No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing sees Nico Rosberg’s outfit through to the Grand Final to fight for a second Extreme E title.
Joining the title contenders in th Grand Final are Veloce Racing, after a second-place finish in Q1 and a Heat win in Q2. The British squad will be pushing hard to take their third win of the season and keep their third-place spot in the standings.
A resurgent NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team took a maiden Qualifying Heat win in today’s first session. Tanner Foust and Hedda Hosås followed this up with third place in Q2 H1 to make it back-to-back Grand Finals at the 2023 Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix.
The final spot in the Grand Final goes to X44 Vida Carbon Racing who, after finishing fourth in Qualifying 1, stormed ahead of ASXE and RXR in their Qualifying 2 race to take the win. Lewis Hamilton’s oufit took the quickest time in the Continental Traction Challenge away from RXR in the process, which could prove crucial as the battle for title glory boils down to a head-to-head in the Round 10 Grand Final.
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be broadcast on ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
Qualifying 1 Heat 1
It was a four-way battle for first off the start line, with NEOM McLaren XE’s Tanner Foust coming out in the lead ahead of No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson. Championship leaders RXR held back from the cars in front in the opening turns, as Johan Kristoffersson stayed out of any potentially race-ending incidents.
From there, though, the Swede began to carve his way up the order. Kristoffersson got ahead of JBXE’s Andreas Bakkerud to take fourth, and soon climbed into the top three positions after diving down the inside of X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell to take advantage of the Jamaican running off-line.
Foust continued to head the field as the drivers entered the Switch Zone, with Kristoffersson making a decisive overtake on Anderson to out-brake the American and snatch second ahead of the driver change.
A strong defensive drive throughout her run ensured Hedda Hosås was able to retain the lead and take a first Qualifying Heat victory for NEOM McLaren XE, with RXR close behind in second.
No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing finished in third ahead of X44 Vida Carbon Racing, with Jenson Button’s JBXE rounding out the top five.
Qualifying 1 Heat 2
ASXE needed a flying start to maintain their championship challenge, and Mattias Ekström delivered, surging ahead of Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider, with ABT CUPRA XE’s Adrian Tambay and Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen in third and fourth.
Hansen was immediately on the move, though, passing Tambay before setting his sights on Scheider for second. An epic wheel-to-wheel battle ensued, with Hansen and Scheider trading bodywork as they battled for position.
The Veloce Racing driver eventually came out on top, diving down the inside of Scheider with a late move over the banking, with a bit of contact between them, to get ahead. There was yet more contact between them as Scheider fought back, with the German having to save a half-spin, but regained control of his ODYSSEY 21 to stay third.
ASXE’s Ekström kept the lead as they headed into the Switch Zone, with team-mate Laia Sanz tasked with fending off Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor for the final two laps.
The Australian kept up the pressure in second, but Sanz maintained her cool to retain first place. With ASXE remaining ahead to cross the line in first and snatch a crucial point for winning Q1 Heat 2, Taylor dropped back into the clutches of Carl Cox Motorsport’s Lia Block, but the American was unable to get past. ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson completed the order.
Qualifying 2 Heat 1
Veloce Racing continued their strong starts off the line, with Taylor charging into the lead into the first corner. Slotting into second was No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Amanda Sorensen, with Hosås behind in third for NEOM Mclaren XE.
The front three ran in this order for the entirety of their stint, with ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson and JBXE’s Tamara Molinaro running in fourth and fifth, respectively.
Taylor’s race management ensured that the Veloce Racing car remained around 3 seconds clear of Sorensen, but the American hit the brakes late into the Switch Zone to take away Veloce Racing’s advantage heading into the final two laps.
Sorensen’s team-mate Anderson launched his ENOWA Hypderdrive at the Switch Zone exit in an attempt to catch out Hansen, but the manoeuvre fell short. Hansen maintained the lead to take the Heat win and a spot in the Grand Final for Veloce Racing, as the team pushes to keep their top three spot in the championship standings.
Crossing the line in second were No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, who just miss out on a spot in the Grand Final with a slower Continental Traction Challenge time than X44 Vida Carbon Racing. Third in the Heat were NEOM McLaren XE who, after their Heat win in Q1, progress to their second Grand Final this weekend.
Fourth-place in the race for ABT CUPRA XE and fifth for JBXE sees both teams heading into the last Redemption Race of Season 3.
Qualifying 2 Heat 2
The stakes were high as title contenders ASXE and RXR lining up on the start line of Q2 H2. All four teams used their ENOWA Hyperdrive in pursuit of the early lead, and it was ASXE’s Sanz who reached the front of the pack.
X44’s Gutiérrez was late on the brakes to take second place ahead of RXR’s Åhlin-Kottulinsky, with the Swede coming under pressure from Carl Cox Motorsport’s Lia Block in fourth.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky closed in on Gutiérrez, gaining some breathing room in the process as the three teams approached the Switch Zone. With the chasing pack slowing down at the last possible moment, X44’s Gutiérrez managed to draw level with ASXE’s Sanz at the front. Behind the tussling pair, Block made contact with the back of the RXR ODYSSEY 21 as they entered the Switch Zone.
X44’s Fraser McConnell used his ENOWA Hyperdrive at the pit exit, a strategy which paid off as the ASXE team decided to hold onto the extra boost for later in the race. Unable to keep up with the Jamaican down the straight, Ekström slotted into second place.
The teams cross the line in this order, with RXR’s Kristoffersson unable to close in on the leading pair. X44, ASXE and RXR all progress into the Grand Final, with fourth-placed Carl Cox Motorsport fighting it out in the Redemption Race.
RESULTS
Q1 Heat 1:
1. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team 8:24.992mins
2. Rosberg X Racing +0.863s
3. No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +2.866s
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +9.162s
5. JBXE +25.438s
Q1 Heat 2:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team 8:29.885mins
2. Veloce Racing +2.015s
3. Carl Cox Motorsport +3.413s
4. ABT CUPRA XE +8.656s
Q2 Heat 1:
1. Veloce Racing 8:29.724mins
2. No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +2.833s
3. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +7.711s
4. ABT CUPRA XE +19.967s
5. JBXE +37.404s
Q2 Heat 2:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing 8:24.757mins
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +1.728s
3. Rosberg X Racing +2.975s
4. Carl Cox Motorsport +24.938s (PENALISED)
Overall Qualifying Standings:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 18 points
2. Veloce Racing: 18 points
3. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 16 points
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 14 points
5. Rosberg X Racing: 14 points
6. No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 14 points
7. Carl Cox Motorsport: 10 points
8. ABT CUPRA XE: 8 points
9. JBXE: 4 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-12-03 Rosberg X Racing take the championship lead with a win in Round 9
Rosberg X Racing (RXR) took the win in Round 9, marking the team’s third victory of Season 3 and first victory in Chile at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix.
Finishing just 0.35 seconds ahead of nearest rivals ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE), Johan Kristoffersson and Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinksy have taken the lead in the championship fight by six points with just one round to go.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, Rosberg X Racing, said: “I just tried to keep it tidy and keep Laia [Sanz] behind, but it was tight racing. Johan had a great start, and it was a great team effort. It’s really great to be taking home the win. We're thrilled to be leading the championship and are looking forward to carrying this momentum into the next race.”
Johan Kristoffersson, Rosberg X Racing, said: “It was a great race between me and Mattias [Ekström]. I really enjoyed that battle. Then, watching Mikaela and Laia drive was really impressive. Tomorrow is a new day, and we’re now in the Championship lead, so it’s going to be an exciting showdown.”
X44 Vida Carbon Racing, who entered the Round 9 Grand Final having finished as top Qualifiers, complete the podium but are now out of reach of a second Extreme E title.
Fourth place in the race went to the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, with Tanner Foust and debutant Hedda Hosås putting forward consistent performances throughout the day’s racing action.
A DNF for Veloce Racing, who only managed to crawl off the start line due to damage sustained in Qualifying, puts the British squad out of contention for the Season 3 title having entered the weekend in third.
Winners of the Redemption Race were Lia Block and Timo Scheider, as Carl Cox Motorsport ended the day on a high having narrowly missed out on the Grand Final.
Find out where to watch tomorrow’s action here as Extreme E heads into Round 8 at the Island X Prix in Sardinia.
Grand Final
Tensions were high as the teams lined up on the start line, with four of them still in contention for the Extreme E Season 3 title.
ASXE launched into the lead, while behind RXR’s Kristoffersson hung back to surge through the middle of the pack in the first corner to take second. X44’s Fraser McConnell slotted into third with NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Foust behind in fourth.
As the dust settled, Veloce Racing could be seen still on the start line, before Kevin Hansen was able to start his ODYSSEY 21, avoiding a DNS to gain 10 points for the team. The damage sustained in Qualifying not only put Veloce Racing out of the race, but also out of the running for a maiden Extreme E title.
As the front two entered the Switch Zone, RXR’s Kristoffersson was able to pull up alongside ASXE’s Mattias Ekström. This proved crucial when ASXE struggled to leave their bay in the Switch Zone and dropped into second.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky absorbed the pressure from ASXE’s Laia Sanz throughout their two-lap stint to take victory for RXR. The win, alongside their Heat win in Qualifying and leading time in the Continental Traction Challenge, sees Nico Rosberg’s outfit at the top of the standings by six points as the championship fight goes down to the wire.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “It’s a bitter sweet feeling after the Grand Final because the victory was really close and we were unlucky in the driver switch because all of a sudden there was a sand storm. That’s where I lost first place.
“The good thing is that both me and Mattias know that we had pace for more. We can be really happy that we are trailing by only six points because in the morning everything appeared to be much worse after the technical issue we encountered in the first Qualifying. We will give it our all tomorrow. We must go all in for the victory.”
X44 Vida Carbon Racing retained their position in third, ahead of NEOM McLaren XE, to make it onto the podium. The top-two finish for RXR and ASXE, however, means that the British team are out of the mix for the championship win.
Fraser McConnell, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: “It was a really awesome day. We won the first Heat, and came second our next Heat. Unfortuantely our GridPlay didn’t help us out and we got the last pick, but we made the best of what we had. I came out of the first corner in third, and we kept it clean in a realy tough Final with lots of fast guys and girls out there. We managed to stay in the fight for as long as we could and brought it home in P3 to repay the team with another podium.”
Redemption Race
With Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E and ABT CUPRA XE unable to start the race due to incidents in Qualifying, three cars lined up on the start line of the Redemption Race.
Carl Cox Motorsport’s Scheider used his ENOWA Hypderdrive off the line to take the lead ahead of JBXE’s Andreas Bakkerud, with No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson in third.
Untroubled runs for both Scheider and Block saw Carl Cox Motorsport cross the line in first place, making the most of the situation having narrowly missed out on a place in the Grand Final.
A puncture for JBXE saw the team drop back into third place with a DNF, while No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing took second having both rolled and suffered at the hands of a 30-second penalty in Qualifying.
RESULTS
Grand Final
1. Rosberg X Racing 8:26.992mins
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +0.356s
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +3.748s
4. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +8.754s
5. Veloce Racing DNF
Redemption Race
1. Carl Cox Motorsport 8:36.520mins
2. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +15.012s
3. JBXE DNF
4. ABT CUPRA XE DNS
5. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E DNS
Championship Standings
1. Rosberg X Racing: 164 points
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 158 points
3. Veloce Racing: 129 points
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 105 points
5. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 103 points
6. ABT CUPRA XE: 75 points
7. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 71 points
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 57 points
9. Carl Cox Motorsport: 48 points
10. JBXE: 46 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-12-02 X44 Vida Carbon Racing top a dramatic Round 9 Qualifying in Chile
X44 Vida Carbon Racing finished as top qualifiers in Round 9 of Season 3 at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, with multiple incidents and red flags across both Qualifying sessions.
Four of the five title hopefuls qualified for the Grand Final, but a DNF in Qualifying 1 and a 30-second penalty for using the championship car in Qualifying 2 sees No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing in the Redemption Race and out of title contention.
Coming out on top in Qualifying 1 Heat 2 and finishing second in Qualifying 2 Heat 2, Cristina Gutiérrez and Fraser McConnell secured 18 points to head the Qualifying standings, giving them a chance to climb from fifth on the championship leaderboard.
Championship leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team's (ASXE) hopes were in jeopardy after a retirement in Qualifying 1. A win in a dramatic Qualifying 2 Heat 1 - which saw three DNFs and penalties for both ASXE and the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team – brought them back into the mix. It all came down to the team’s Continental Traction Challenge time, which proved just enough for the Spanish outfit to steal fifth in the rankings and a spot in the Grand Final.
ASXE’s closest rivals, Rosberg X Racing (RXR), join them in the Grand Final to keep the title fight alive. Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Johan Kristoffersson recovered from P4 in their Qualifying 1 Heat to take the win in Qualifying 2 Heat 2.
Also remaining in contention for championship glory are Veloce Racing. A win in Q1 H1 was followed by a DNF in Q2, but with two other DNFs in the same Heat Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor earned enough points to progress to the Grand Final.
Despite a 30-second penalty for making contact with Klara Andersson, which put the ABT CUPRA XE car into a roll, NEOM McLaren XE make it through to the Grand Final with third and second across the Qualifying sessions.
The remaining teams will fight it out in the Redemption Race to determine sixth to tenth place in Round 9.
The Grand Final and Redemption Race will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
Qualifying 1 Heat 1
As the teams hurtled down towards the first corner, Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen seized the advantage to take the lead, despite contact with RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson.
Kristoffersson was given no room to settle in second, coming under pressure from NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust. An attempted move by the American proved costly, as the contact resulted in a puncture for RXR’s ODYSSEY 21 and a 10-second penalty for Foust.
This was not the end to the drama, as in the opening lap melee ASXE suffered a technical problem, forcing them into retirement. As Kristoffersson slowly toured back to the Switch Zone after just one lap, up ahead Veloce Racing stretched out a lead of over eight seconds.
Foust made a decisive move past JBXE’s Andreas Bakkerud to take second on track, but NEOM McLaren XE’s penalty for the collision with RXR ensured they were still third on the timesheets.
Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor enjoying a trouble-free two laps to seal the win for the British outfit, with Tamara Molinaro taking second on her JBXE debut, as Hedda Hosås, in her first appearance for NEOM McLaren XE, finishing third.
After their first-lap woes, RXR were able to get back on course to take fourth, with ASXE rounding out the order with a DNF.
Qualifying 1 Heat 2
After setting the quickest lap in Friday’s Free Practice, Timo Scheider was fastest out of the blocks for Carl Cox Motorsport.
It was a close fight for second behind, with Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Timmy Hansen getting past X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson was close behind in fourth, ahead of Adrien Tambay on debut for ABT CUPRA XE.
It was soon to be only a three-way fight for the win, however, as Anderson hit one of the inside banking and rolled his ODYSSEY 21. The American was unharmed, but the subsequent retirement was a blow to the team’s title ambitions.
Following a yellow flag for the stricken No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing car, Andretti Altawkilat’s Catie Munnings and X44’s Cristina Gutiérrez lept pass Carl Cox Motorsport’s Lia Block as the three cars left the slow zone.
Block was then relegated to fourth by a charging Klara Andersson for ABT CUPRA XE, as leader Munnings defended strongly from Gutiérrez. The Spaniard made a decisive overtake around the outside of Munnings in the closing stages to seal a crucial Heat victory.
Andersson dropped to fourth in the final corner of the race, running wide after a bad bounce on the Chilean course, and promoting Carl Cox Motorsport’s Block back into the top three positions.
Qualifying 2 Heat 1
With all teams pushing hard for position in the final X Prix of the season, there was another dramatic race in the second Qualifying session.
A strong start from Veloce Racing’s Taylor saw her ahead of the tightly-grouped chasing pack. As ASXE’s Sanz entered the first corner on the wider line, the other three teams converged on the inside. Contact as NEOM McLaren XE’s Hosås went into the back of the ABT CUPRA XE car sent Andersson into an intense roll, resulting in an immediate red flag. Andersson walked away from the incident unharmed.
The Heat resumed from the start line, where Taylor managed to take the lead for Veloce Racing once again. ASXE’s Sanz again went round the outside and carried enough pace to take the next corner on the inside ahead of Munnings with Hosås behind in fourth.
Taylor remained ahead throughout the opening lap, before a puncture and broken suspension allowed Sanz to shoot round on the outside at the start of lap two.
The situation worsened for Veloce Racing as Munnings, unaware of Taylor slowing down, launched her Andretti Altawkilat ODYSSEY 21 over the top of the Veloce car. This brought about the second red flag of the Heat and an end to both team’s run. Both drivers exited their cars and returned to the paddock, with Munnings later being taken to hospital for precautionary checks.
With only two teams able to make the restart, ASXE’s Sanz and Ekström completed a steady run to cross the line ahead of NEOM Mclaren XE. A 15-second penalty for improper use of the ENOWA Hyperdrive threatened to drop ASXE into second and out of the Grand Final, but the penalty for NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team ensured track position remained the same.
Qualifying 2 Heat 2
The middle line off the start proved the best once again, as X44’s Gutiérrez surged to the front, with RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky in second ahead of Lia Block taking the wider line.
The front three reached the Switch Zone in this order, with Block hitting the brakes late in the Carl Cox Motorsport ODYSSEY 21 to reach the bumper of the RXR machine.
An exciting battle ensured between X44’s McConnell and RXR’s Kristoffersson, with the latter needing to complete the overtake to guarantee their spot in the Grand Final.
McConnell defended well for most of the stint, but the Jamaican took a corner slightly too wide, allowing Kristoffersson to take the win. Third in the Heat were Carl Cox Motorsport, with JBXE finishing fourth ahead of No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, as the American team served a 30-second penalty for needing to use the championship car.
The result of Q2 Heat 2 put Carl Cox Motorsport, JBXE, and Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E all level on 12 points with ASXE, but the Spanish outfit's Continental Traction Challenge time puts these other three teams in the Redemption Race.
Q1 Heat 1:
1. Veloce Racing 9:27.557mins
2. JBXE +8.848s
3. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +15.717s
4. Rosberg X Racing +4:16.629s
5. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team DNF
Q1 Heat 2:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing 8:52.914mins
2. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +1.777s
3. Carl Cox Motorsport +7.097s
4. ABT CUPRA XE +13.826s
5. No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing DNF
Q2 Heat 1:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team 25:20.430mins (PENALISED)
2. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +20.537s (PENALISED)
3. Veloce Racing DNF
4. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E DNF
5. ABT CUPRA XE DNF
Q2 Heat 2:
1. Rosberg X Racing 8:26.169mins
2. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +1.745s
3. Carl Cox Motorsport +6.383s
4. JBXE +20.711s
5. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +1:00.898mins
Overall Qualifying Standings:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 18 points
2. Veloce Racing: 16 points
3. Rosberg X Racing: 14 points
4. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 14 points
5. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 12 points
6. Carl Cox Motorsport: 12 points
7. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 12 points
8. JBXE: 12 points
9. ABT CUPRA XE: 6 points
10. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 4 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-12-01 Championship leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team set the pace in Chilean finale
The Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix got underway today with Free Practice for the final event of Extreme E Season 3. With the title fight this year too close to call, it was crucial for the five teams in contention to get to grips with the Chilean course ahead of tomorrow’s racing action.
Extreme E’s return to South America sees the series racing in the Antofagasta region of Chile, on the doorstep of the driest place on earth – the Atacama Desert. Five teams are battling it out for championship glory, and all of them sit within the top six following Free Practice.
Currently sitting top of the standings heading into the Season 3 showdown, the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team demonstrated the pace that has seen them win two X Prix so far this year.
Off the back of a victory in September’s Island X Prix, Mattias Ekström and Laia Sanz have carried that momentum with them, setting the quickest overall time of the day with 8:20.273.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: "Anything can happen in Chile, but we will aim to be as strong as possible and stay away from trouble. The margins are so narrow that whoever wins this event will take the championship. Everything is still at stake and everyone will be pushing hard. We will also follow that philosophy. The team has worked very well throughout the entire season, we have always been among the best teams, and in Chile, it has to be the same again. We have done a great year and now we must finish the job. I remain calm and I have done my homework. I am ready to go for it."
Sitting hot on the Spanish team’s heels is Rosberg X Racing, just 0.628 seconds behind after today’s laps. Johan Kristofferson and Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky sit second in the championship standings, and are showing the pace needed to close the three-point gap to the top and take their second Extreme E title.
Johan Kristoffersson, Rosberg X Racing, said: "This season's climax in the Atacama Desert will be a battle. With the points so close, every move counts. Our team is in top form, and I'm confident in our strategy and preparation. The intense competition only adds to the thrill, and Mikaela and I hope to deliver a great performance.”
Behind Nico Rosberg’s outfit were 2022 champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing, while championship contenders Veloce Racing finished fifth behind Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider and Lia Block, with Scheider securing the quickest lap of the day with a 1:37.874.
Championship hopefuls No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing ended the day in sixth, with less than eight seconds between them and ASXE at the top.
JBXE finished the day in seventh, with the remaining three teams unable to unleash their full pace due to issues in FP2. Both the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team and ABT CUPRA XE came to a stop on course, while Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E received a penalty for speeding in the Switch Zone.
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
Free Practice combined timings:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 8:20:273 (FP2)
2. Rosberg X Racing: 8:20.901 (FP2)
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 8:22.557 (FP2)
4. Carl Cox Motorsport: 8:24.384 (FP2)
5. Veloce Racing: 8:25.684 (FP2)
6. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 8:28.065 (FP2)
7. JBXE: 8:32.016 (FP2)
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 8:33:323 (FP2)
9. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 8:39.273 (FP1)
10. ABT CUPRA XE: 8:49.217 (FP1)
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-30 Extreme E ready for rollercoaster course return in Chile
The Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix will take place in the heart of the Atacama Desert on a rollercoaster of a course – considered one of the most popular tracks in the series - and which promises to bring this year’s Extreme E season to a breathtaking final crescendo.
The three-kilometre layout, set in the driest place on the planet and in an inherently remote setting, will once again feature multiple elevation changes, variations in gradient, high-speed corners, and jumps. And as it did last year, will result in arguably the calendar’s fastest, most thrilling race course for Extreme E’s world-class drivers and teams.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “We are all hugely excited to return to Chile and what more fitting place than the Atacama Desert for our season finale. The course last year was without doubt hugely exciting, pushing the drivers and teams to their limits, and the racing here last year proved that in abundance.
“This year, we have made some minor tweaks but kept the emphasis on the layout which features plenty of fast, sweeping corners, putting the drivers’ technical skillset to the test, alongside the jumps which should guarantee edge-of-the-seat action all the way throughout the weekend with five teams still battling for the championship.”
From the start of the lap there is plenty of opportunity for overtaking, making the deployment of the ENOWA Hyperdrive crucial as the drivers will look to take several alternate lines to get the upper hand. Having plenty of passing room throughout for the drivers is the key for this Chilean course. It’s a design characteristic that is always sought in Extreme E – allowing potential for overtaking right from the beginning is crucial.
One thing that will again create plenty of excitement are the jumps out on course… and there are plenty of them! There is always a fine line between carrying too much speed over them or not enough, and similarly to last year, the drivers will be trying to find the sweet spot to make up time and not overextend the ODYSSEY 21s by overdriving.
Making use of different levels of banking across the course will also be vital. The quick change in direction through the use of the banking and gradients means there are also plenty of blind spots, so the drivers really have to be on their game.
The finishing line coincides with one final jump which, as it did in 2022, will provide an exciting climax to the course layout and plenty of airborne ODYSSEY 21s.
Christine GZ, Extreme E Championship Driver, said: “The course has not changed too much since last year, which is great as it is extremely fast. The terrain is definitely unique, while there are lots of jumps throughout the lap which is cool.
“It is a perfect course to show the performance of the ODYSSEY 21, which should mean for some great racing out on track. The start will be crucial and coming out ahead by Way Point 2 is going to be key, and then throughout the lap I am sure there will be plenty of battles.”
Patrick O’Donovan, Extreme E Championship Driver, said: “It is an incredible course. The feeling behind the wheel is amazing – a lot of people I had spoken to had described it as a rollercoaster and I would definitely agree with that. You are trying to find the limits of the car and the tyre, but at the same time taking into consideration the fact that you are coming into these corners at 120kph and flicking it through with a ‘full send’ approach.
“It is a really technical course, especially the opening few corners and so it is really tricky to get it right. There is a large variation of lines in that initial section, so that should make for plenty of overtaking opportunities both on the inside or braving it on the outside of the turns. That should be pretty special.”
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-29 Slagläge och revanschlust
Det är slagläge för Rosberg X Racing inför Extreme E-finalen i Chile. Johan Kristoffersson och Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky har några poäng att hämta in från sin andraplats.
- Vi ska ta fyra poäng mer än Acciona Sainz. Det är det vi behöver göra, säger Johan.
Kristoffersson tog hem den första titeln i terrängbilsserien med eldrivna fordon 2021, då tillsammans med Molly Taylor. Förra året hade han i team med Åhlin-Kottulinsky ena handen på segerpokalen inför säsongsavslutningen i Antofagasta, Chile, men svenskduon blev snuvad på värsta tänkbara sätt.
- Inte så bra minnen från ifjol eftersom bilen inte startade när vi skulle ut i finalen, men när vi tittar tillbaka på videor från då så var vi ändå ganska starka. Framför allt Mikaela var i särklass snabbast av tjejerna, så en del positivt fanns det att ta med sig, menar Johan.
Den här gången slår RXR ur underläge, men med klar segervittring. Efter en trög säsongsstart har teamet manövrerat sig till en fin position tack vare två bra tävlingshelger på Sardinien.
- Vi har haft några sämre helger, men ändå tagit en hel del poäng, så säsongen som helhet har varit ganska bra.
Hur ser då segerreceptet ut inför avslutningen på sydamerikansk mark?
- Allt kan hända i Extreme E. Det är viktigt att vara noggrann, följa regelboken, hålla sig borta från alla flaggor så att man inte åker dit på någon snöplig bestraffning, säger Johan.
Teamkompisen Mikaela fyller i:
- Vi vill ha en helg där allt rullar på, utan tekniska problem. Då vet vi att vi är starka.
Copper X Prix körs precis som de andra tävlingshelgerna den här säsongen som en dubbeltävling, en på lördag och en på söndag.
- Det finns många poäng att plocka fortfarande, menar Kristoffersson.
Förutom finalpoängen delas också extrapoäng ut, för heatsegrar och för snabbaste tid på “traction challenge”-sträckan.
- Där har vi halkat efter lite under säsongen. Om man räknar bort alla bonuspoäng så leder vi mästerskapet. Men det har också varit vår strategi att ta det säkra före det osäkra och inte alltid gå för heatvinster. Vi ska fortsätta på det sättet, men kanske måste vi skruva på lite extra om det behövs, avslutar Johan.
23-11-28 Christine GZ returns as Championship Driver for Extreme E Season 3 finale
Extreme E has confirmed its Championship Drivers for the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, with Christine GZ returning to the series alongside Patrick O’Donovan.
It is a welcome return to the series for GZ, who has raced in Extreme E in each season since the championship launched in 2021.
GZ competed for Carl Cox Motorsport earlier this year, securing her first ever podium finish at the Hydro X Prix in Scotland, marking the team’s maiden top-three result in the process.
Prior to GZ’s two X Prix for Carl Cox Motorsport, she raced for XITE Energy Racing in the championship’s debut season before taking part in four events for Veloce Racing in 2022.
After departing Veloce Racing, GZ also made a one-off appearance as Extreme E Championship Driver in the Uruguay Natural Energy X Prix last term.
GZ will return to the role of Championship Driver alongside O’Donovan, who recently made his FIA World Rallycross Championship debut in Hong Kong, securing a podium finish in his maiden event in the series.
Christine GZ, Extreme E Championship Driver, said: “I am delighted to be back in the Extreme E paddock once again. It all feels so familiar, like one big family, and I am really excited to get back behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21 for the season finale.
“It is a great championship to be a part of, and having carried out the role of Championship Driver previously I am delighted to do so once more.
“The course in Chile is one of the most exciting on the Extreme E calendar, so I am eager to jump back in and work alongside Patrick to help deliver one of the best events yet!”
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-23 Andreas Bakkerud on a year in Extreme E
Andreas Bakkerud was one of the first drivers to ever sit behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21, but it took until Season 3 for the Norwegian off-road star to get his chance to race in Extreme E.
After debuting as the series’ Championship Driver at the start of 2023, Bakkerud took over from Heikki Kovalainen when the Finn departed JBXE after the opening round.
Following two top-five finishes, Bakkerud is eager for more and looks back on his maiden campaign in Extreme E ahead of the Season 3 finale in Chile.
XE: You’ve completed your first three events in Extreme E – how would you rate your time in the championship so far?
AB: Extreme E is very different to everything I’ve done. Everyone has made me feel very welcome in the paddock. I have not had as much time in the car compared to others, who have competed in many seasons already, but I definitely feel my pace is improving. I’d give myself a fair seven out of 10!
XE: You started the season as the male Championship Driver. Did you expect to get a race seat in 2023?
AB: It was fantastic to step in as the Championship Driver in Saudi Arabia and learn all about the car and the championship. It’s a great role to introduce you to a new championship and learn from someone like Tamara Molinaro, who has extensive experience in Extreme E.
I didn’t expect to receive a call so soon, but with the history of the championship, anything can happen, so you have to be ready at any moment’s notice. It was an easy decision for me. I love what the championship is all about and driving against legends was something I looked forward to.
But I knew that I would get a chance to drive at some point… especially with my charisma and charm!
XE: This is not the first time you have driven the Extreme E car, having got behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21 during pre-season testing at Chateau de Lastours, France, in 2020. How did it feel to be one of the first to drive the ODYSSEY 21 and how does it compare to the JBXE machine you drive currently?
AB: It was a very cool experience testing in France with a lot of cool people also there. Carlos [Sainz Snr.] tested the same day and he’s a legend!
Testing the car before and then coming to a race, it blew my mind. It’s absolutely like nothing else I’ve experienced in motorsport before. The car has definitely come a long way since those days. In Saudi Arabia, I had never raced on sand before and so to race on the beach, next to the ocean, was very different. But for Scotland, it was again a whole new experience – the new suspension since I tested has definitely made an impact.
XE: How challenging is it to get up to speed in Extreme E midway through a season?
AB: It’s tough, but looking where the team started this season before I joined until now, I definitely feel we’re on the right path. In our last Grand Final during Round 8 in Sardinia, we were able to hold the lead ahead of Johan Kristoffersson (Rosberg X Racing), which showed our pace before the technical issue we had.
XE: What is this main difference between competing in Extreme E compared to other series’ that you have raced in?
AB: It’s very different. In the ODYSSEY 21, I have much less power than I’m used to, so it sure has to be driven very differently in both racing style and strategy. It’s probably not so easy to see it on TV, but the tracks are changing every time we’re out there, so we have that to also contend with.
The Switch Zone is also a unique one to the series, racing to hand over to your team-mate or vice versa has been an adrenaline rush and always provides a good restart to the race. The level of communication is key when handing over, so I would definitely say both the car and format have been the main differences.
XE: How was your debut in Scotland? Your Redemption Race performance was pretty memorable!
AB: I had never been to Scotland before, so I was excited to visit a new place, especially as it was such an extreme track! It was a learning curve and also the first time with working with Hedda [Hosås], so it took some time to get used to it. I always want to win, but we took some good steps in the right direction which felt good.
XE: How has it been to work alongside Hedda Hosås as two Norwegians at JBXE, and how would you sum up your relationship within the team?
AB: We’re the underdogs. It has also been challenging as when all the other teams went testing, we unfortunately were not able to which set us back a little. However, that hasn’t stopped us from trying, we won’t give up and will keep getting back up after our setbacks. We need a little more from every parameter to nail that podium!
The JBXE team have been great to work with and Hedda is a cool driver, it’s nice to be racing with a Norwegian – it is actually my first time to do so! We’re from the same country and we don’t live too far away from each other back home. I took some time to go over to another competition she was racing at, and we have been able to create a great working relationship with each other where we both want JBXE to succeed.
XE: You will now have Tamara Molinaro as your team-mate for the season finale. Are you looking forward to working with her once again?
AB:Tamara is a great driver and we have a really good relationship. She showed me the ropes earlier this season in NEOM as Championship Drivers, and so we are both keen to do our best in Chile and bring home as many points as we can. I am excited to pair up with her on track and hopefully we can produce some strong results!
XE: You’ve reached two Grand Finals in the last four races showing more positive momentum. What have been your main tactics behind this?
AB: We’re getting there. It took us a long time to understand the set-up, but we should be right there for Chile. We’ve gone differently from the other teams in terms of our running order on track and it has worked quite a few times. Unfortunately, we haven’t quite managed to perform in the Grand Finals… yet.
XE: Are you hopeful of more strong performances in Chile?
AB: Very much so! Most of the drivers went there last year but I haven’t seen the site yet or had any experience on this course, so I’m looking forward to it. I believe we will continue building on our performance as we’ve seen we are capable of being in the Grand Finals and I have a feeling we will get to the podium in Chile.
XE: As a sport for purpose championship, you have got involved with a number of environmental initiatives. How have you found that since joining Extreme E permanently?
AB: I love how Extreme E actively champions climate change alongside racing. The Legacy Programme in Saudi Arabia was my favourite, we were regreening by planting trees and rewilding the animals. There are big challenges in the desert but there’s also a lot of clever minds like our Scientific Committee that have a plan and I have loved being a part of leaving a legacy that I hope people will start to follow.
I’d love to do more and I’m looking forward to seeing how we can help as part of the Legacy Programme in Chile.
XE: How would you sum up your season for JBXE in three words?
AB: Different, challenging and fun!
XE: And, lastly, would you like to be on the Extreme E grid for 2024?
AB: Absolutely, now that I’ve had a taste this season, I want to continue racing in this competitive sport and be more active in the Legacy Programmes.
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-22 Our Season 3 title contenders: ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team
In Season 3 of Extreme E, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (AXSE) has undoubtedly emerged as the team to beat. With a successful third-place overall championship finish in Season 2, including podiums and consistent performances, the Spanish outfit have gone from strength to strength in 2023.
Despite Carlos Sainz Snr. having to miss the campaign through injury, Mattias Ekström has proven to be a more than worthy replacement alongside Laia Sanz. With two victories and multiple podiums, ASXE head the standings going into the title decider – the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in Chile.
After a strong 2022 campaign, ASXE was determined to claim its maiden race victory in 2023.
Despite Sainz Snr. unable to get behind the wheel following an incident in the 2023 Dakar Rally, up stepped Swede Ekström to partner Sanz, renowned as one of the world's finest female off-road racers on both two and four wheels, at the Spanish outfit.
As well as being hugely experienced across multiple motorsport disciplines, Ekström was already familiar with Extreme E having previously raced for ABT Cupra XE, taking a podium during the championship’s maiden season in 2021.
Under the watchful eye of Sainz Snr. back in the team garage, the duo of Ekström and Sanz made a strong start to the season and secured ASXE’s first ever win in the Championship.
After a strong second-place in Round 1, ASXE went one better the following day to claim that all-important first series win ahead of Veloce Racing and Rosberg X Racing (RXR) in a sign of things to come for Season 3.
Extreme E then moved onto the wilds of Scotland, UK, for Rounds 3 and 4, where unfortunately the Spanish outfit was not so rewarded.
Entering the Hydro X Prix as joint championship leaders with 46 points, the team found itself in unfamiliar territory as it took on its first-ever Redemption Race in Round 3. However, taking victory ensured sixth place in the overall results and meant the team kept their top spot in the standings.
Further problems, though, in Round 4 dropped the team down to second in the standings. Despite reaching the Grand Final, a collision with RXR resulted in a DNF and, with Veloce Racing taking the spoils on home soil, ASXE conceded valuable championship points.
Back-to-back events in Sardinia were just the tonic, however, for ASXE to get their championship charge moving in the right direction.
Rounds 5 and 6 saw ASXE amongst the frontrunners, taking two second-place finishes to snatch back the Championship lead, as Veloce Racing were unable to make a Grand Final appearance at either round.
In both races, though, ASXE shadowed RXR home, meaning Nico Rosberg’s outfit and Season 1 champions clawed back valuable points as they looked to reclaim their Extreme E crown.
All eyes were on the new series leaders as they returned to the Italian island for the Island X Prix II.
Not to be fazed by a tough new track layout at Cape Teluda, the ASXE pairing took a convincing win in Round 7, having dominated the day’s racing action with two Heat victories in Qualifying. The victory marked ACCIONA’s second victory of Season 3 and first win at an Island X Prix, extending their championship lead.
And just as ASXE looked to be leaving the chasing pack in their wake, Round 8 was a reminder that anything can happen in Extreme E.
With Ekström and Sanz looking to preserve their championship position, multiple issues and misfortune ensured ninth was the best the team could achieve. Round 8 saw RXR and Veloce Racing steal back crucial points in the title race, with incidents and technical issues leaving ASXE to fight it out in the Redemption Race.
Despite this, ASXE still top the standings heading into the season finale in Chile, with a narrow three-point advantage over RXR and a 21-point gap to Veloce Racing.
Last time out in Chile, ASXE finished as runners-up following an enthralling Final in the Atacama Desert. The team will be aiming for a similarly strong performance and podium results if they are to take their maiden Extreme E crown.
The crowning of the 2023 champions in the five-team decider in Chile will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-22 Tamara Molinaro joins JBXE for Extreme E Season 3 finale
Former Extreme E podium finisher Tamara Molinaro has joined Jenson Button’s JBXE outfit for the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in Chile.
Italian Molinaro will team up with fellow former Championship Driver Andreas Bakkerud for the final X Prix of Season 3, replacing Hedda Hosås who will debut for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team in the Atacama Desert.
Molinaro has plenty of experience behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21, and was the series’ Championship Driver in 2021 as well as the previous four events of this 2023 campaign.
In Season 2, Molinaro made her racing debut for XITE Energy Racing where she scored a best finish of second at her home event, the NEOM Island X Prix, alongside Timo Scheider. Molinaro and XITE Energy Racing finished eighth in the overall standings last term.
The 26-year-old also made a one-off Extreme E appearance in 2023 for NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team at Island X Prix II, where she stood in for the injured Emma Gilmour.
Molinaro will relish getting back behind the wheel for her new outfit, who are currently ninth in the standings – recording their joint-best result of the season last time out in Sardinia by finishing in fifth.
It is a full circle moment for Molinaro and Bakkerud, who started the 2023 campaign as Championship Drivers at the season opening Desert X Prix in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, and have both now progressed to race seats in the same year.
On returning to the Extreme E grid, Molinaro said: “I am delighted to join JBXE for the final race of the season in Chile. Being a part of this series as a Championship Driver is always special, but a race seat is something I have wanted for a while and to return alongside Andreas [Bakkerud] is a really exciting prospect.
“It is great to be a part of Jenson’s team as well, and I can’t wait to get back out there in the Atacama Desert and go racing again. This is the fifth different Extreme E team I have worked with since the championship launched – it is not always easy to adapt quickly to get back into a good rhythm, however I am hopeful that alongside Andreas I will be able to do just that when we go racing once again.
“I have waited patiently for this opportunity and I am really keen to grasp it and score as many points as I can in the final two races of the 2023 season.”
Jenson Button, JBXE team owner, said: “Tamara is very experienced behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21 and has worked together with Andreas previously, so we feel that is a strong pairing going into the last races of the year in Chile.
“We are eager to move up the championship standings and with Tamara joining the team alongside Andreas we feel that is a pairing capable of doing just that.”
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-21 Our Season 3 title contenders: Rosberg X Racing
Arguably the most consistent team in Extreme E in 2023 have been Rosberg X Racing (RXR). Although three points adrift of leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE), RXR have finished in the top-five positions at every round this season.
Championship victors in the inaugural season of Extreme E and runners-up last term, Nico Rosberg’s outfit are gunning to reclaim their crown at the title decider in Chile – the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix.
As the championship kicked off in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, for the Desert X Prix, RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson and Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky brought home a solid set of points as they looked to claim their second Extreme E championship in three seasons.
Two third-place finishes from the first two rounds, in what was anticipated to be the most competitive Extreme E season yet, ensured a consistent opening to the campaign.
It could have been even more for RXR, having crossed the line at the head of the pack in the Round 1 Grand Final. However, the team was later hit with a penalty after a Slow Zone violation, undoing their Grand Final efforts which included a sublime start from Kristoffersson.
The all-new racing format gave RXR the opportunity to go for the win once again in Round 2. The team suffered some setbacks in Qualifying, including contact with ASXE and ABT CUPRA XE, plus a false start, but a place in the Grand Final was secured. A race-long battled ensued with Veloce Racing as the duo tussled for second place, but RXR would have to settle for third once more as they left the deserts of Saudi Arabia third in the standings.
The Hydro X Prix marked the only X Prix of the season that RXR did not take their place amongst the top-three positions at either round despite making both Grand Finals.
After losing out to Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E and X44 Vida Carbon Racing at the start of the Round 3 Grand Final, RXR would drop out of contention after a crash for Kristoffersson with a rocky bank of the course, rolling his ODYSSEY 21 in the process and into retirement.
Round 4 offered an opportunity to bounce back in Scotland. A second and third place from their two Qualifying Heats ensured the team kept their 100 per cent record of Grand Final appearances in 2023. However, in a Grand Final which saw title rivals Veloce Racing pull clear, contact with challengers ASXE ruled both teams out of the running and those dropping further points.
They would both, however, recover strongly in Sardinia as the championship returned for its Mediterranean leg of the season.
A dominant weekend from RXR saw the team win Rounds 5 and 6 on the Italian island, continuing their success in Sardinia, and leaping them up to second in the overall standings.
Nevertheless, they were shadowed home in both races by ASXE, who took over the championship lead in the process, while Nico Rosberg’s team benefitted from a post-race penalty handed to No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing in Round 5 after the American outfit crossed the line in first.
Given RXR’s history of success racing in Sardinia more of the same was expected in Rounds 7 and 8.
Despite again making both Grand Finals, fourth was the maximum that RXR could achieve in Round 7 after a tumultuous Grand Final – which saw multiple cars suffer damage and visibility issues out on course as they battled for position.
RXR lost ground to ASXE and Veloce Racing – both of which made the podium – but clawed back the points deficit in Round 8.
After two Qualifying Heats it looked as if RXR would miss out on their first Grand Final appearance of the season, but their speed through the Continental Traction Challenge bumped them up the order and into the all-important top-five ranking teams.
A difficult start in the Round 8 Grand Final dropped RXR down to fourth, but some feisty driving from Kristoffersson moved RXR into second place before shadowing X44 Vida Carbon Racing home to bank valuable points. Both ASXE and Veloce Racing contested the Redemption race for Round 8, closing the gap still further.
At last year’s Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, it looked like the Atacama Desert would be the backdrop for RXR’s second championship success in as many seasons.
However, technical issues prior to the Final meant the team could not take back, dropping valuable points and momentum in the process. This would be the catalyst for X44 Vida Carbon Racing to overhaul them in the standings, snatching the championship at the 2022 finale.
RXR will be aiming for redemption when they take to the track for the title decider in Chile (2-3 December), as the 2023 season heads towards a dramatic conclusion.
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-21 Hedda Hosås to race for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team in Season 3 finale in ChileThe NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team today announces that Hedda Hosås will replace Emma Gilmour for the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix next month.
Following an incident at Island X Prix II in September, Gilmour has been recovering at home in New Zealand. Although she is making good progress with her recovery, she is unfortunately not fit in time to drive for the Copper X Prix next week. Extreme E wishes her a speedy recovery.
Hosås will deputise for the New Zealander at the Extreme E Season 3 finale, having impressed since making her debut at the Desert X Prix in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, in 2022.
The 22-year-old initially joined the series as a reserve driver for Veloce Racing, before taking the role of Championship Driver at the beginning of 2022. Following a crash at the Season 2 opener for Veloce Racing's Christine GZ in Qualifying, the Norwegian stepped into the racing action and made her Extreme E debut for the British outfit.
Hosås then contested the rest of the 2022 campaign with Jenson Button's JBXE squad, securing a podium finish on her debut for the team at the NEOM Island X Prix I. Alongside Heikki Kovalainen and Andreas Bakkerud this term, Hosås has raced for JBXE in the previous four events of 2023 with a best finish of fifth.
Hedda Hosås, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, said: “I’m looking forward to competing for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team in Chile next week. I’m sending all my best wishes to Emma for a speedy recovery and hope I can do her and the whole team proud.”
Emma Gilmour, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team said: “Following my incident in Sardinia in September, I’ve had to take the difficult decision to not compete in the final round of the 2023 Extreme E season in Chile next week. I have been making good progress with my recovery, but do not feel well enough to compete yet. I’m confident that Hedda will do a good job to help bring the team some well-deserved success.
“I’m looking forward to supporting the rest of the team on the ground and helping them to end the season on a high."
Gary Paffett, Sporting Director, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, added: "Although Emma will not compete for us in Chile, I am glad she is making good progress with her recovery. Throughout her time in Extreme E, Hedda has proven herself to be a strong competitor in the championship, and I am confident she can help the team achieve success to round off our second season in Extreme E.”
Hosås' debut for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details, as the series heads to the Atacama Desert in Chile, with five teams still in with a chance of winning the Extreme E championship for 2023.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-20 Our Season 3 title contenders: Veloce Racing
After their most successful campaign to date, Veloce Racing head to Chile still in contention for their maiden Extreme E championship. Currently third in the standings with two X Prix wins in 2023, including their debut series victory, the driving duo of Molly Taylor and Kevin Hansen have secured a healthy number of points and podiums over the course of Season 3.
Will they be able to reel in those ahead to take their first Extreme E title?
The British outfit got off to a flying start at the Desert X Prix in NEOM, Saudi Arabia. After a strong end to Season 2 in their debut event together for Veloce Racing, Taylor and Hansen continued where they left off to take the team’s first Extreme E win. After battling with Rosberg X Racing (RXR) and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE) for honours in the opening bout of 2023, the team finished second on-course in Round 1.
However, a post-race penalty for RXR opened the door for Veloce Racing to take the winning step on the podium.
Their strong form continued into Round 2, taking a well-earned spot in the Grand Final after winning both Qualifying Heats. On this occasion, though, Veloce Racing would have to settle for second place behind ASXE, with the Spanish outfit taking their inaugural Extreme E victory. They were to be joined once more on the podium by RXR, with the top three teams signalling their intent for the 2023 season.
Home comforts were next up for the team as they headed to Scotland for the Hydro X Prix as one of the pacesetters.
A difficult start in Scotland meant Veloce Racing would have to contest the Redemption Race for Round 3 of the season. Despite troubles in Qualifying, Hansen and Taylor secured vital points to shadow home ASXE in the Redemption Race to finish second, and seventh in the overall classification.
After a dry beginning to proceedings in Scotland the heavens opened for Round 4, but there was no raining on Veloce Racing’s parade as the team snatched back the championship lead. A broken driveshaft in Qualifying 1 was not the best start to proceedings, but victory in their Qualifying 2 Heat demonstrated the team’s resilience on home soil.
A bold move by Hansen in the Grand Final snatched the lead for Veloce Racing and despite being pursued all-race by the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, the British outfit became the first double winners of Season 3.
Next up for Veloce Racing came the Sardinian double-header and, although there were notable high points, the rounds on the Italian island would see the team drop back to third in the standings.
Misfortune in Qualifying during Round 5 meant the team would have to settle once more for fighting it out in the Redemption Race. Hansen and Taylor achieved the maximum to cross the line first, scoring valuable points on a weekend which saw nearest rivals RXR and ASXE lock out the top-two positions in both races.
Despite winning a Qualifying Heat for Round 6, a Grand Final appearance at the Island X Prix was denied once again.
After victory in Q1, their plans were scuppered after incurring damage to their ODYSSEY 21 and technical problems, which left them fifth in their Q2 Heat and without enough points to secure their place in the Grand Final. Despite disappointment in the Veloce Racing garage, Hansen and Taylor managed to secure a second-place finish in the Redemption Race which gave them seven crucial championship points.
Returning to Sardinia for Island X Prix II in September, Veloce Racing needed a strong showing to get their championship charge back on track.
A dramatic podium was secured in Round 7, with a dogged drive from Taylor enough to claim third place and a return to the podium positions after struggling with visibility throughout her run.
Round 8 saw Veloce Racing take Redemption Race honours once more, crucially ahead of ASXE who, after winning Round 7, lost momentum in the final bout of racing in Sardinia as they finished ninth. Nevertheless, further ground was lost on former series winners RXR, who were runners-up in Round 8.
Attentions now turn to the Season 3 finale and the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in Chile, with two rounds left to decide the destination of this year’s Extreme E championship.
After a difficult first two years in the series, Veloce Racing’s 2023 season has truly demonstrated the team’s Extreme E credentials. Despite the 21-point deficit to leaders ASXE, the British outfit will be aiming to finish the 2023 campaign in style and with their first championship victory.
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-20 St. Helena arrives in Chile ahead of season finale
The St. Helena, Extreme E’s floating base, has arrived in Chile as the Championship prepares for its Season 3 finale – the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix – on 2-3 December.
She is used to transport the championship’s freight and infrastructure, including vehicles, to the nearest port to each of its race locations, minimising Extreme E’s emissions profile as well as facilitating scientific research through an on-board laboratory.
The St. Helena travelled west for the South American finale, travelling out of Europe following the last round of the championship, Island X Prix II (16-17 September), in Sardinia and through the Panama Canal to reach its final destination in Chile.
Upon arrival in Chile, the crew will spend the first few days unloading all of the freight on board as preparations and anticipation builds for the season closer.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “The arrival of the St. Helena into Chile marks a pivotal milestone in our preparations for the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, and the conclusion of what has been a thrilling season. Chile was a brilliant host last year and we are delighted to be returning to the Atacama Desert for a thrilling climax to the campaign, where five teams are still in contention to win the championship in South America.
“We look forward to working with Antofagasta Minerals once again to use our platform to tell this important story in an informative and insightful manner, and ultimately deliver more gripping race action."
The Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix is the fifth and final round of Extreme E Season 3. The championship standings are led by ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, however the Spanish outfit are swiftly followed by Rosberg X Racing and Veloce Racing. This is the closest Extreme E title battle in the series’ history, with No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing and last year’s champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing also in contention.
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-17 Our Season 3 title contenders: No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing
No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing look back on a consistent season as they approach the championship decider in Chile. Sitting fourth in the standings with two rounds still to go, the American outfit are in with an outside chance of glory at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix (December 2-3).
The team entered Extreme E Season 3 with a fresh driving pairing, as Amanda Sorensen made her championship debut at the Desert X Prix in March alongside RJ Anderson. The American brought with her heaps of experience having competed in the Formula DRIFT series and seized the Lucas Oil UTV Championship that same year as the youngest competitor across the board.
Competing as Sorensen’s team-mate for the 2023 campaign, Anderson returned to Chip Ganassi Racing having stepped in for the final race of Season 2 at the Energy X Prix in Punta del Este, Uruguay. A confident performance on debut helped the team remain in contention all the way up to the final day of competition.
No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s consistency has put them in the title fight once again this year. Despite being the only team out of the five title contenders not to have taken a victory in 2023, the American outfit has finished in the top-five positions in all but one of the rounds of the 2023 season.
Anderson and Sorensen started Season 3 on a high, heading through to the Grand Final in comfortable fashion having won Qualifying 1 Heat 1 and taking third in Qualifying 2 Heat 1. Unfortunately, a strong start for RJ Anderson was quickly stalled, after technical issues forced Anderson to come to a stop out on course.
The team also hit the ground running in Round 2, claiming two second-place finishes across both Qualifying heats. Anderson and Sorensen could only manage another fifth place, but this marked two Grand Finals out of two for the American outfit.
A third place in Round 4 at Hydro X Prix in Scotland was the first podium of the year for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing and a maiden podium for Anderson and Sorensen. A strong fourth place in Round 3 meant the team left Scotland with their Grand Final streak intact.
No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing maintained their strong form with another podium and another fourth place at the next double-header in Sardinia, Italy.
However, the Island X Prix also represented a missed opportunity for Anderson and Sorensen, as a penalty denied them a first win of the campaign in Round 5, putting them down to third place.
The pair also lost out on back-to-back podiums, having run in third until the very last corner of Round 6 before Sorensen was passed right at the last by Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Catie Munnings.
As the championship returned to Sardinia in September for Rounds 7 and 8, the opening day’s racing saw the team miss out on its first Grand Final of the season, crossing the line third in the Redemption Race to finish eighth overall.
In a bid to turn their Island X Prix fortunes around, Anderson and Sorensen quickly put Round 7 behind them and were flying in Qualifying for Round 8. In Qualifying 2 Heat 2, Sorenson pulled off a risky move on JBXE’s Hedda Hosås to take a dramatic victory in the closing stages. These heroics secured joint second place in the Qualifying standings, ahead by virtue of their speed through the Continental Traction Challenge, and a place in the Grand Final.
After a hard-fought battle with Rosberg X Racing’s Johan Kristoffersson in the Grand Final, the team just missed out on a spot on the podium, finishing in fourth. The 19 points earned across the weekend ensures No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing remain an outside bet for the 2023 championship.
No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing sits 40 points off championship leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team and just 19 points outside of the top three contenders. With plenty of points up for grabs at the season finale in Chile, the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix promises to be an exciting showdown.
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-11-16 Our Season 3 title contenders: X44 Vida Carbon Racing
It is still mathematically possible for the 2022 champions to retain their Extreme E crown at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in Chile next month. Although Sir Lewis Hamilton’s outfit will need much to fall in their favour, two victories so far this season show that X44 Vida Carbon Racing still have that winning habit.
In the first of our five spotlights analysing our 2023 title contenders, we look back on X44 Vida Carbon Racing's performance across Season 3 and how they remain in the championship picture heading to the finale in Chile.
X44 Vida Carbon Racing kicked off its 2023 Extreme E season with a revamped driver line-up, featuring the addition of Jamaican racer Fraser McConnell alongside resident driver and reigning Extreme E Champion, Cristina Gutiérrez. McConnell had debuted in the series at the Season 2 finale for Jenson’s Button’s JBXE after a stint as Championship Driver, and replaced Sebastien Loeb at the team.
With pressure to defend their championship title, Gutiérrez and McConnell started the 2023 Extreme E season in NEOM with undisputed pace. Both drivers posted impressive qualifying times for Round 1 and took a Heat victory but, in the end, it was not to be X44’s weekend. Technical issues prevented the duo from securing a podium spot across the weekend and, as a result, X44 Vida Carbon Racing left the Desert X Prix with only 23 points overall and a lot of work ahead after finishing fourth and sixth, respectively.
The tables seemed to be turning, though, as the series headed to Scotland for the Hydro X Prix for Rounds 3 and 4. Their strong Qualifying pace was retained in the opening race, ensuring their second Grand Final Appearance of the season.
Gutiérrez crossed the line in second place, but further reward was to follow as a penalty for the on-course winners, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, led to a first win of Season 3 for X44 Vida Carbon Racing, and McConnell’s maiden visit to the top step of the podium.
If it seemed that their first win of the campaign would kickstart X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s season, the next four rounds would be beset by issues that left their championship hopes hanging by a thread.
A ninth-place finish in the remaining round of the Hydro X Prix stalled their progress, while back-to-back eighth-place finishes in the series’ first visit to Sardinia in 2023 left them off the pace of the leading pack.
Nevertheless, their respectable showing from the opening three rounds ensured Sir Lewis Hamilton’s outfit remained in the top five of the Extreme E leaderboard.
It initially looked like X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s bad luck would continue when the series returned to Sardinia for Island X Prix II in September.
An eighth-place in Round 7 of the season left them with plenty of work to do, but come Round 8 the sun was shining on Gutiérrez and McConnell once more.
A feisty drive from the Jamaican in the Grand Final, passing Rosberg X Racing’s (RXR) Johan Kristoffersson, set the tone and that fast start would prove decisive. Gutiérrez kept her cool when taking over the reigns after the driver change, heading home RXR’s Mikaela Ahlin-Kottulinsky to take the team’s second win of 2023.
It would take a number of results to fall in their favour at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, but having come from behind in last year’s title battle X44 Vida Carbon Racing should not be discounted in the Season 3 finale.
Nevertheless, with a 52-point deficit to leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team it will take a huge swing in fortune to secure back-to-back championships.
The team have proven pedigree in South America, and took the win when the series made its debut in the Atacama Desert in 2022 and will be looking to add to their two visits to the podium at the title decider next month.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-10-12 Timo Scheider on a year with Carl Cox Motorsport
After a stint competing for XITE ENERGY RACING last term, Timo Scheider was signed to race for the newly-founded Carl Cox Motorsport team at the beginning of 2023. With only the finale in Chile for the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix to come for Extreme E Season 3, the two-time DTM champion and FIA World Rallycross race winner discussed his team’s debut campaign, that maiden podium in Scotland and his close bond with team-mate Lia Block.
Extreme E: You are four races down out of five in 2023 with Carl Cox Motorsport – how would you describe this season so far?
Timo Scheider: In terms of results, it has been a little bit frustrating. In terms of performance, however, the year has been a surprisingly good one especially as a new team joining the championship at the beginning of 2023.
We’ve also changed drivers over the campaign, but that hasn’t impacted the development of the team as we look to finish off our first season. We are definitely performing much better now with even more races under our belt.
Extreme E: How have you found trying to build a team up from the beginning?
TS: I really enjoy building something up from the start and seeing how we can push on and develop. For sure, it is not easy, but it can be so rewarding. Sometimes as part of the journey you do not always see the results, especially in the early days.
I can tell that we are doing great and working hard, but there is definitely still a lot to do to be on top and challenge those frontrunning teams.
Extreme E: You must have been delighted to have got the call up to drive for Carl Cox Motorsport. How did that materialise?
TS: I have so much history in this series and have enjoyed being a part of it since the beginning. I spent quite a long time as the male Championship Driver, and it was really cool playing a role in the design of the tracks in the first couple of years. However, my long-term target and overall goal was always to race and compete in the series for real.
When I got the chance with XITE ENERGY RACING alongside Tamara Molinaro and proved what I could do in the car with a second-place finish in Sardinia last year, my hopes definitely got higher that I would be in contention for a full-time drive. I was so glad that it happened and want to keep performing.
Extreme E: What has been your highlight of the season so far?
TS: For sure the podium at the Hydro X Prix was a memorable moment. It was only the third race of the season so to take a podium finish was huge for the team. To achieve that so quickly was beyond our expectations!
It was great to have Carl [Cox] at the race to see it as well – it was a fantastic feeling for all of us and it is something we are continuing to chase. We all appreciate having so much positive energy in the team from him and he is always asking questions, and so interested in how we are going to race. It’s very refreshing to see this and the attitude he has, along with his passion for motorsport.
We were so happy to get onto the podium. We have not always got the results this season, but things went our way in Scotland to achieve that result.
The other standout has been the performance of Lia [Block]. To be right on the pace with hardly any testing in the car, and to perform that strongly at just 16-years-old is so impressive.
Extreme E: You have had two different team-mates this season – how do they compare?
TS: Christine [GZ] is such a positive person and helps to create a warm and happy environment. The team decided to make a change, though, and chose to bring Lia into the team.
Given how young Lia is, I did not want to set any expectations or place any pressure on her behind the wheel. I knew she had talent, but we wanted to give her time to settle in and develop. Lia has impressed so many people with her speed and commitment since joining the series – it is incredible. She has a lot to learn, and hopefully I can help to support her as she continues her motorsport journey. But we definitely work well together which is important. We badly want to win and that helps us as we focus from race to race.
Extreme E: You seem to have really taken Lia under your wing. How much of a talent do you think she is and what advice have you given her?
TS: I was friends with her father Ken [Block, who passed away earlier this year] and both came to visit me towards the end of 2022. They wanted to discuss Lia’s future in motorsport. And now she is my team-mate, which is something that we could not have predicted amongst everything else which has happened.
When we talked about Lia’s future motorsport career, I promised Ken if I can help Lia someday that I would give my very best to be a good teacher and friend. I think that’s the status we currently have, which is great.
My advice to her at the moment is just to take her time, to not expect things to happen so fast and for it all to fall into place quickly. Success comes from hard work, passion and consistency – nothing in motorsport comes for free. If she continues to work hard, I believe she will have a great future.
Extreme E: Although currently last in the standings it seems Carl Cox Motorsport has often been hit with bad luck or difficulties when close to a good result – are you confident ahead of the finale in Chile?
TS: I know the potential of the team and for sure our points total in the standings does not truly show our performance overall. We have definitely shown more than that on track throughout the season.
Carl Cox Motorsport will be going all out in the finale – I would not be surprised if we ended the campaign strongly, and ending on a high is our objective. We would absolutely love to take a victory and truly show our pace.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-10-05 Sardinia setbacks for Andretti Altawkilat
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E will be aiming to end their 2023 campaign on a high at the season finale in Chile (2-3 December). Despite taking victory in the Round 7 Redemption Race, securing the fastest Continental Traction Challenge time en route, Catie Munnings and Timmy Hansen’s progress in Sardinia was beset by setbacks, ensuring they were unable to take part in a Grand Final across the second instalment of the Island X Prix.
The team’s opening Qualifying Heat on the Italian island set the tone for things to come.
Early contact between Hansen and Rosberg X Racing’s (RXR) Johan Kristoffersson dropped the Andretti Altawkilat ODYSSEY 21 to the back of the pack in Q1 H2. The resultant collision meant a puncture and suspension damage, ensuring the team would have to retire from their first race of the weekend.
Their Round 7 woes continued as, upon further inspection back in the garage, it was discovered that their ODYSSEY 21 had sustained significant damage, including a cracked chassis. As a result, it was not possible for the car to be ready for the second Qualifying Heat. The team worked throughout the rest of the day to rebuild the car and have it ready for the Redemption Race.
And the team’s efforts were rewarded, taking victory in the Redemption Race after a brilliant comeback drive from Hansen and Munnings, salvaging sixth overall and some pride for Andretti Altawkilat after a troublesome day. They were also able to claim two extra Championship points for the Continental Traction Challenge thanks to Munnings' and Hansen's combined fastest time through Sector 2.
Catie Munnings, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, said: "We wrapped up Round 7 in the best possible way after the Q1 incident. We're very happy to take the Continental Traction Challenge as well.
“It was an unfortunate incident in Q1 for Timmy [Hansen], which meant that we weren't able to start Q2. I was unsure as to how the track would be given that I hadn’t driven it since the Free Practice session, so for us to come out and have good speed in the Redemption Race and cross the line in first place was the best that we could do to help raise the morale of the team.”
Timmy Hansen, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, said: "Round 7 started in the most difficult way. Racing in Qualifying 1, I was going side-by-side with Johan [Kristoffersson] and my car went on two wheels. I managed to save the car from rolling but, unfortunately, in the process I hit a rock which caused a lot of damage to the car. The mechanics had a huge job to do to fix the car.
"The damage was pretty bad, so we weren’t able to make it to Qualifying 2 and found ourselves in the Redemption Race. We had great pace making it out from exiting Turn 1 in fourth place and in the lap overtook third, then second and eventually first.
"Catie [Munnings] took over the car in the lead and managed to increase the gap to the car behind. We also won the Continental Traction Challenge today, and we were both pretty fast in that section."
In a closely fought start to Round 8, trouble befell Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E once more in Qualifying 1. Competitive racing from the female drivers saw all ODYSSEY 21s close together, but just as Munnings looked to be about to pass Amanda Sorensen for third, the Brit went into the back of the No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing car in the water, resulting in a DNF for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E with the team beached on the rugged terrain.
The team enjoyed a race-long battle with Carl Cox Motorsport in their Qualifying 2 Heat, but after eventually getting the upper hand in their on-track squabble as a result of a post-race penalty, the points for fourth place were not enough to secure a place in the Grand Final.
Hopes were high for a repeat performance in the resulting Redemption Race, but after again battling it out with Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider and Lia Block, second place, and seventh overall, was the most Munnings and Hansen could muster.
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s attentions turn to the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, where the team will aim to climb up from seventh in the standings in the remain two rounds.
Munnings said: "We had a better starting position for the Grand Final and were hopeful of a strong result. I managed to pass Lia Block on the third lap of the race, which moved us up into second place. However, the gap in front was quite big so we managed our pace from there on to bring the car home safely.
"It was very tricky conditions all weekend, though we've shown examples of our strong pace – when we won the Round 7 Redemption Race and also claimed the Continental Traction challenge. A big thanks to the team for all their work. We head to Chile determined that we can turn things around and come away with a strong result."
Hansen added: "We had incredible pace, demonstrated when we won the Continental Traction challenge, but Extreme E has proven that it’s not all just about pure pace. It's short, sharp racing and Turn 1 is a big deal. There are positives to take away from this weekend, though it’s also been very frustrating. We deserve a good result. The car is good and Catie is driving extremely well.
"I’m looking forward to Chile and hoping that things will go our way. We certainly deserve that after a tough season. We’re aiming to be on the top step of that podium and I’m confident we can do it. We just need to own the day and execute every session."
Rounds 9 and 10 of Extreme E Season 3 will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-28 ASXE sets sights on Extreme E title decider
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE) head to the Extreme E Season 3 finale in Chile leading a five-way championship fight, after two victories across the 2023 campaign.
At the Island X Prix in Sardinia a win in Round 7 extended their championship advantage, but difficulties in Round 8 reduced their points lead going into the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in December.
A win and a ninth-place finish typifies how across a weekend a team can enjoy huge highs and suffer disappointing lows in Extreme E, as ASXE did in the recent Island X Prix, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The pendulum swung dramatically for ASXE on the Italian island. A narrow three-point advantage over nearest challengers Rosberg X Racing (RXR) is what the Spanish outfit will take to South America for Rounds 9 and 10 of 2023. Veloce Racing are also in the mix, albeit 21 points behind ASXE, with No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing and X44 Vida Carbon Racing an outside bet to steal the championship crown.
Nevertheless, ASXE head to Chile at the head of the standings.
The key to their Round 7 Grand Final victory, after demonstrating strong pace throughout their Qualifying Heats at Sardinia’s Capo Teulada, was the start.
Swede Mattias Ekström moved up from fourth to first at the opening turn, with a brave move around the outside of the rest of the ODYSSEY 21s in the field, to snatch the lead. Ekström was able to hand over team-mate Laia Sanz in Switch Zone, and the Spaniard consolidated that advantage on her run to seal the team’s second win of the season.
It was also a momentous day for ASXE’s Carlos Sainz Snr. whose son, Carlos Sainz Jnr., took pole position for that weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix in Formula One earlier that afternoon – 30 minutes in fact before Sanz crossed the line in first place, to seal a double celebration for ASXE. Sainz Jnr. would take victory in Singapore the following day.
In Round 8, as ASXE looked to affirm their championship advantage heading into the finale in Chile. They won the opening Qualifying Heat in dramatic fashion, pipping RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulsinky on the finish line to steal the win by 0.061 seconds - the closest margin in Extreme E history to date.
A technical issue in Qualifying 2 meant that the team would have to settle for a spot in the Redemption Race. Having finished second on both occasions last time out in Sardinia to go with their Round 7 victory, this marked the first time the team would be off the podium in Italy in 2023.
Worse was to follow, as further woes ensured Ekström and Sanz could only finish in ninth overall. Their strong performance in Round 7, though, ensured the team would head to Chile as the frontrunners in the bid for the Extreme E 2023 title.
Laia Sanz, ASXE, said: “Round 7 was a perfect day, one of the best we have enjoyed so far in Extreme E. Mattias [Ekström] made a massive start in the Final. Both of us did well in the Qualifying Heats. What happened in Round 8 was a shame. The things that happened were just beyond our control, but the takeaway is that we have even more motivation for Chile – it must serve as a reminder that we can win the Championship this year."
Mattias Ekström, ASXE, added: “I think the Saturday in Sardinia was a great day. We had a good set-up, good strategy, and two good Qualifying Heats. I think the key to the race win was the first corner at the start. I made a move around the outside and went from P4 to P1 and, after this, I had a clean windscreen and beautiful, enjoyable few laps. I enjoyed it a lot.
"In Round 8, we went from being the stars to the ‘losers’ of the day. We had started the day with a victory in Qualifying 1 thanks to Laia’s good driving, but then we suffered a technical failure in the second Heat.
"Then, in the Redemption Race, one wiper broke down. Going from first to last is quite an experience, but we are still leading the Championship by three points, and everything is up for grabs in Chile."
Carlos Sainz Snr., ASXE, said: “I am really happy with the race win we had in Round 7, and the team did an incredible job. It was a great start from Mattias in the Final, even though we were not in the best starting position. He moved up to first place and Laia finished the work. I was delighted for them and the entire team. They all made me a happy man.
"In Round 8, everything that could go wrong went wrong, with two unlucky issues that were beyond our control. Overall, this has compromised the otherwise fantastic weekend in Sardinia, but we won’t give up. There is still the final double-header to go, and we will go for it.”
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-28 Chip Ganassi Racing show strength in Sardinia ahead of Extreme E title decider
No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing kept their title hopes alive after an important points haul in Sardinia for Rounds 7 and 8 of Extreme E Season 3.
The 19 points earned across the weekend ensures they remain an outside bet for the 2023 championship when the series returns for the decider in Chile in December.
After enduring a difficult Qualifying in Round 7 the American outfit placed seventh overall, ensuring they would have to settle for a spot in the Redemption Race.
In an action-packed encounter, drivers RJ Anderson and Amanda Sorenson crossed the line in third, and eighth overall, after avoiding the opening lap crash which forced NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tamara Molinaro into retirement. After taking an early lead in the Redemption Race, the team dropped back and lost ground on their nearest challengers.
It would be the first Grand Final of the season missed by No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, who have demonstrated remarkably consistency throughout the 2023 campaign.
RJ Anderson, No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, said: “In the Redemption Race, we were able to snake around and secure the lead in the GMC HUMMER EV for the whole first lap.
“Then, there was a yellow flag for a competitor that had rolled and we had a bit of a misunderstanding about where that yellow was. We were then passed, then got back going again, and we battled on.”
In a bid to turn their Island X Prix fortunes around, Anderson, Sorensen and the No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing team quickly put Round 7 behind them and were flying in Qualifying for Round 8. In Qualifying 2 Heat 2, Sorenson pulled off a risky move on JBXE’s Hedda Hosås to take a dramatic victory in the closing stages. These heroics secured joint second place in the Qualifying standings, ahead by virtue of their speed through the Continental Traction Challenge, and a place in the Grand Final.
After a hard-fought battle with Rosberg X Racing’s Johan Kristoffersson in the Grand Final, the team just missed out on a spot on the podium, finishing in fourth.
Amanda Sorenson, No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, said: “In the Grand Final, we fought hard and gave it everything we had.
“The team was fantastic, but it just didn’t play out how we wanted it to. I’m excited about going into Rounds 9 and 10 to finish off the season.”
Anderson added: “There was a lot going on behind the scenes and this team kept pushing. I’m really proud of them.”
“We drove our butts off in the Qualifying Heats to get into the Grand Final and, unfortunately, we just didn’t deliver. I’m happy that we came away with the Continental Traction Challenge. The speed is there we just need to keep trying to put it all together.”
The team earned 19 points over the doubleheader race weekend, putting them fourth in the championship standings heading into the final two contests in Antofagasta, Chile. They sit just 19 points away from breaking into the top-three and 40 points away from the championship leader.
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-28 How Extreme E's ABT CUPRA XE shone in Sardinia
ABT CUPRA XE enjoyed their strongest weekend so far in Extreme E Season 3, securing back-to-back podiums at the Island X Prix. The trophies for second and third place were the first of the campaign for drivers Klara Andersson and Sébastien Loeb, and are whetting the appetite for the season finale in Chile on 2-3 December.
After showing promise as the team’s driver pairing at the last round in Sardinia, this time Andersson and Loeb translated their speed into strong results – accumulating the most points out of all 10 teams in Rounds 7 and 8, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The newly formed duo, with Loeb standing in for Nasser Al-Attiyah once again, was among the fastest pairings on the track on the Italian island in July, but were beset by bad luck on track. For the second visit to Sardinia, though, ABT CUPRA XE were on the pace throughout, with two wins and two second places in the Qualifying Heats confirming their speed.
“We had a good car, the team and Klara [Andersson] did a mega job,” said Sébastien Loeb after securing his first podiums of the season for ABT CUPRA XE.
“I took the start for the first Grand Final and after the first turn found myself in fourth – Mattias [Ekstrom – ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team] found a way past from around the bushes. I don’t know how, but I think he planned that!
“It was an amazing move, and then I was stuck between two cars on my right so I exited the first part of the lap in fourth. I then dropped back down to fifth after a fight with Johan [Kristoffersson - Rosberg X Racing]. I then tried to close the gap and managed to repass Kristoffersson before closing up to third. When we changed drivers at the Switch Zone, Klara was right behind the podium positions and then managed to pass and hold on!
“In the second Grand Final we could definitely have been much stronger, we just had a little problem with the wipers which affected our visibility. We could have fought for the victory, or at least for second place, but another podium was a good result.
“It was a much stronger weekend than our last visit to Sardinia in July. Last time the best we could do was fourth, but this time around we were the only team to come away with two podiums and we scored the most points over the weekend.
“We had a good car and a good rhythm, but it is Extreme E and anything can happen. Two podiums and the most points of all teams – of course we’re happy about that, even if we would have liked to win.”
ABT CUPRA XE head to the season finale, the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix, in buoyant mood following their best result of the 2023 campaign.
The team’s last visit to Chile started with a low point, as driver Jutta Kleinschmidt was involved in a crash in Free Practice which ruled her out of the series’ debut in South America, where the German was replaced by then Championship Driver Andersson.
The Swede then shone on her debut for the team alongside Al-Attiyah, taking the team’s first podium of the campaign that weekend in the Atacama Desert – before securing a debut win in the 2022 season finale in Uruguay.
And Andersson, after reflecting on the team’s strong performance in Sardinia, is chasing another strong performance when the championship returns to the Atacama Desert in December.
Klara Andersson, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “The first Grand Final was chaos!
“Seb did a brilliant job to close the gap, but it was so difficult to follow because I could not see much off of the screen. It felt quick though and I planned on the next lap to make the overtake – and it worked! We only finished with three wheels, which was a bit dramatic, but managed to hold onto second so we were happy to take good points for the team.
“We were happy with third place in Round 8 as well. We were almost completely blind for the four laps so I think we did what we could. The team and the car were great.
“We had to give everything for the two trophies and together with the whole team we are proud of it. We have fought our way back to success from difficult times – after finishing second and third, the goal for the two races in Chile should be clear.”
You can find how ABT CUPRA XE fare at the 2023 season finale on ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-22 Five teams to fight for Season 3 glory
With eight Rounds of Extreme E Season 3 down, a dramatic finale awaits at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix in Chile in December, with a record five teams still in the running to take the 2023 title heading into the decider.
Looking ahead to the title showdown, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE) lead the way with 139 points. The Spanish outfit has gone from strength to strength in 2023 and, after claiming their maiden series victory in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, in March, have asserted themselves as one of the championship’s pacesetters.
A second victory last time out for Mattias Ekström and Laia Sanz at the Island X Prix, along with three additional podiums across the campaign, has ensured ASXE will head to the Atacama Desert in December as the team to beat.
Hot on their heels and pushing for their second Extreme E title in three years are Rosberg X Racing (RXR), who sit three points behind ASXE in the standings.
After two third-place finishes in the season opener in NEOM, Nico Rosberg’s outfit backed up their consistency with two top-five finishes at the Hydro X Prix in Scotland.
RXR’s championship really ignited in the season’s first visit to Sardinia back in July, winning both rounds to confirm their title credentials. Finishing fourth and second at the previous Island X Prix last weekend has closed the gap to ASXE further still and, having previously claimed an Extreme E title, RXR will be doing all they can to make it two championships in three seasons.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, RXR, said: “Securing the P2 spot in the championship standings is crucial for our title fight. We're only three points behind, and we're eagerly looking ahead to Chile.”
In third place are Veloce Racing, who have been strong contenders throughout 2023 in what has undoubtedly been the team’s breakout season in Extreme E.
Two victories from the opening four rounds, including their maiden championship win, set down a benchmark for their competitors as the British outfit headed the standings.
One podium from the next four rounds has dropped Veloce Racing back to third, but drivers Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor have been a strong pairing ever since they got behind the wheel at the Season 2 finale in Uruguay, and will look to show their undoubted speed in Chile.
Veloce Racing are 21 points behind ASXE, but are still within reach heading into the final two rounds.
Molly Taylor, Veloce Racing, added: “We never give up and we're focusing on the next rounds with a package that we're feeling really good about. The speed that we've got is enough, so we just need to control what we can control."
Further back, yet still in the running for championship glory, are No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing (fourth – 99 points) and X44 Vida Carbon Racing (87 points). Both will need to secure the maximum amount of points they can at the finale in Chile, and hope others falter in pursuit of title glory.
Sir Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing have had ups and downs across 2023, with their only visits to the podium being their two victories of the campaign at the Hydro X Prix and most recent Island X Prix. Nevertheless, the Season 2 champions should not be discounted given their undoubted pace, and will be putting the other contenders under heavy pressure to secure back-to-back titles. They were also victorious in Chile in 2022 in the series’ first visit to South America.
No. 99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s consistency has kept them in the title hunt, as they are the only one of the title contenders not to have taken a victory in 2023. However, the American outfit have finished in the top five positions in all but one of the rounds of the 2023 season, and given their speed the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix finale could provide that illusive win in their bid for championship honours.
It is the first time in Extreme E history that five teams head into the season finale still with a shot at securing the championship.
With two rounds still to go, along with vital Qualifying Heat and Continental Traction Challenge points up for grabs, the championship decider in the Atacama Desert on December 2-3 is set to be a thriller.
The crowning of the 2023 champions will be live across ITV and STV in the UK, while outside of the UK please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-22 Extreme E's Island X Prix hosts crowning of inaugural E-Xplorer world champions
It was yet another thrilling race weekend for Extreme E in Sardinia for the Island X Prix (16-17 September), which has ensured a five-way championship fight going into December’s Season 3 finale in Chile.
However, this time out on the Italian islands there was double the action as Extreme E shared the Sardinian terrain with another pioneering racing series – FIM E-Xplorer World Cup, the all-new electric off-road motorcycle championship, – creating a unique convergence of both two- and four-wheeled electric motorsport.
The FIM E-Xplorer World Cup concluded its inaugural campaign with a thrilling ‘double-header’ in Sardinia. The season finale saw the crowning of the first ever FIM E-Xplorer World Cup champions, creating a true festival of all-electric, gender equal and sustainable racing.
The brainchild of Carina Munte and Valentin Guyonnet, with input from Extreme E’s chief visionary, Alejandro Agag, the FIM E-Xplorer World Cup marks a new dawn for motorbike racing. A first in the world of two-wheeled racing, not only is it fully electric, but each E-Xplorer team consists of one male and one female rider.
These teams compete in a range of thrilling races, held at various locations around the world, including city streets and natural terrains.
Alejandro Agag, Extreme E Founder and CEO, said: “It was a delight to welcome this dynamic young series to join Extreme E in Sardinia. I have worked with Carina and Valentin to help bring this electric motorcycle series to life and have watched it flourish this year. It made a lot of sense for us to work together as we share all the same values.”
The FIM E-Xplorer racetrack was a 0.6km challenge in the Italian Army Training area at Capo Teulada in Sulcis-Iglesiente in the south of the island, co-organised by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The terrain was sandy and very dry with rocks and bushes, which added new dimensions after previous FIM E-Xplorer World Cup rounds that featured the the dirt of Catalunya, the gravel mountain tracks of Crans Montana and the wooded area of Vollore-Montagne.
Japanese outfit MIE and riders Sandra Gomez and Jorge Zaragoza were crowned as inaugural FIM E-Xplorer World Cup champions in considerable style. The runners-up spot went to the Gravity pairing of Camille Chapelière and Kiara Fontanesi, to secure second place in the overall championship. Team Maddwill, which is owned and managed by the legendary rider Robbie Maddison, secured third.
“It was great to work with Extreme E this weekend,” said Valentin Guyonnet, Co-Founder of FIM E-Xplorer World Cup. “It makes perfect sense for these two championships to complement each other, and this weekend has really proved this. I hope this is the start of a number of such collaborations."
“I completely agree with Valentin and I think for Extreme E this is a great complimentary series,” enthused Agag.
“We have some ‘down time’ in the middle of the day during our events and the whole of E-Xplorer - the races, the format, and the messaging behind the sport - is very similar to the ethos behind Extreme E and I welcome the chance to work closely with this series again. I am a huge supporter."
For Extreme E, Sardinia has become a staple in the off-road series’ calendar and this was the second time the Italian course was visited this season. It marked on-track success for both ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team and X44 Vida Carbon Racing who won Rounds 7 and 8, respectively. The former’s strong performance ensured they maintained the championship lead ahead of Rosberg X Racing (RXR), with Veloce Racing rounding out the top three, while No.99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing and X44 Vida Carbon Racing remain in contention.
Extreme E will head to Chile for the final rounds of the season (2-3 December) to crown its own 2023 champions and with 51 points separating the top five in the standings there is all to play for when the season concludes in South America.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-17 X44 Vida Carbon Racing take second win of Season 3 in Round 8
X44 Vida Carbon Racing took the win in Round 8, marking the team’s second victory of Season 3 and first victory at an Island X Prix, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
Cristina Gutiérrez and Fraser McConnell took the win ahead of Rosberg X Racing (RXR) in second, who just miss out on taking the championship lead from ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, sitting just three points behind the Spanish outfit in the standings.
Cristina Gutiérrez, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: “We had a tough start to the weekend, but we kept our spirits up and with all the team working together we prepared well for the final. Fraser had an amazing start and I just had to keep my head focused to get us round for the win! We are so happy and proud of the team!”
Fraser McConnell, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: “So happy to redeem ourselves in Sardinia. Cristina and I had our heads down and drove four strong clean laps in the final. As always, the team worked tirelessly to make sure the car was in top shape. Big up to team X44 Vida Carbon Racing. This won’t be the last you hear from us!”
The third step on the podium went to ABT CUPRA XE, as Klara Andersson and Sébastien Loeb secured back-to-back podiums at this Island X Prix.
No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing took fourth, with RJ Anderson going wheel-to-wheel with RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson in an exciting bout. A DNF for JBXE in their second Grand Final dashed the team’s hopes of a first podium in Season 3, but matches their season best of fifth place.
Winners of the Redemption Race were Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor, as Veloce Racing keep themselves within reach of the title as the championship battle reaches a thrilling climax. Just 21 points separate the top three as Extreme E heads into the last two rounds of Season 3, in Chile (December 2-3).
Grand Final
Fraser McConnell secured the perfect start for X44 as he charged around the outside in the opening corner. Another impressive overtake followed, as Loeb managed to pass RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson to take second.
The Swede went wide in the water splash soon after and lost another place, this time to No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson.
Kristoffersson pushed hard to overtake back as the pair made contact over the jump at the end of Lap One. The RXR driver soon regained third, taking a wider line to carry more pace exiting a corner. Up ahead Loeb then went wide, opening the door for Kristoffersson to gain ground and fly up the inside a few corners later to take second.
As the next drivers took over, a confident drive from Cristina Gutiérrez ensured the win for X44 ahead of RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky in second and ABT CUPRA XE’s Andersson in third.
Fourth place went to No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Amanda Sorensen, while JBXE’s race ended with a DNF as Andreas Bakkerud pulled up with a damaged front right wheel.
Redemption Race
The Redemption Race was a matter of damage limitation for championship leaders ASXE and remaining within the title fight for Veloce Racing who sit third in the standings.
ASXE did not get the start they needed, as Mattias Ekström went sideways on the opening straight and dropped to the back of the group. Meanwhile Veloce Racing’s Hansen stormed into the lead in pursuit of the maximum eight points.
Timo Scheider ran in second for Carl Cox Motorsport, followed by Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Timmy Hansen, as Ekström dropped further back due to technical issues with his ODYSSEY 21.
Following the driver change in the Switch Zone, Taylor controlled the lead to take Redemption Race victory, while Munnings went late on the brakes to take second for Andretti Altawkilat ahead of Lia Block in the Carl Cox Motorsport machine.
Laia Sanz crossed the line in fourth, meaning just three points were gained across today’s racing action for ASXE, but this proved just enough to remain at the top of the leaderboard heading into the all-important title decider in Chile.
RESULTS
Grand Final
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing 10:08.030
2. Rosberg X Racing +5.813s
3. ABT CUPRA XE +8.621s
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +13.856s
5. JBXE DNF
Redemption Race
1. Veloce Racing 09:39.903
2. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +6.099s
3. Carl Cox Motorsport +10.469s
4. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +56.474s
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team DNS
Championship Standings
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 139 points
2. Rosberg X Racing: 136 points
3. Veloce Racing: 118 points
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 99 points
5. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 87 points
6. ABT CUPRA XE: 75 points
7. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 71 points
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 45 points
9. JBXE: 42 points
10. Carl Cox Motorsport: 40 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-17 RXR kryper närmare i toppen
Det blev en tuff men fruktbar helg för Johan Kristoffersson och Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky i Extreme E på Sardinien.
- Som helhet bra. Vi tog in en poäng i mästerskapet och åker härifrån med tre poäng upp till ledning, summerar Kristoffersson i Rosberg X Racing.
RXR återvände till Sardinien med gott självförtroende efter dubbelsegern på samma plats i juli. Det blev dock en besvärlig återkomst.
- Tuffa race och vi hade verkligen inte marginalerna på vår sida.
En säker ledning i lördagens första kval förvandlades till en tredjeplats på grund av krånglande radiokommunikation i samband med en varningsflagga. Seger i andra kvalet innebar dock en säkrad finalplats.
I finalen blev det nya problem när servostyrningen försvann. Med en tung terrängbil på ett ojämnt underlag blir det en utmanande uppgift. Kristoffersson och Åhlin-Kottulinsky kämpade sig dock till mållinjen och plockade tack vare det en placering, eftersom ett ekipage bröt, och slutade därmed fyra. Eftersom mästerskapstoppande Acciona Sainz vann finalen innebar det att RXR tappade fjorton poäng i titelstriden, men ändå behöll andraplatsen totalt så långt.
Söndagen började hyfsat där Johan låg tvåa efter sin runda i Q1 och där Mikaela tog över ledningen redan i samband med växlingen. Svenskduon såg ut att gå mot heatseger, men precis på mållinjen lyckades Laia Sanz snuva Åhlin-Kottulinsky på segern, med blott sex hundradelars marginal.
- Vi hade en del tekniska problem även där. Det var en tuff och krävande bana. Det föll ifrån bilar hela tiden, säger Kristoffersson.
Eftersom Acciona Sainz missade söndagsfinalen fanns det läge att plocka in de förlorade poängen från lördagen.
- Men i båda finalerna hamnade vi i lägen där vi inte vill vara efter att ha fått välja startposition sist av alla.
I en jämn start lyckades Kristoffersson ändå ta sig ut som tvåa, men blev snart omkörd av Sébastien Loeb.
- Och sedan slutade vindrutetorkarna att fungera så jag tappade ytterligare en placering i vattenhålet.
Från fjärde plats började Johan sedan jaga, fick fart på torkarna igen och gjorde två mästerliga omkörningar upp till andra plats igen.
- Det såg mörkt ut där ett tag men jag kunde ändå lämna ifrån mig bilen till Mikaela som tvåa och därifrån tog hon den i mål på andra plats.
Därmed plockade RXR in alla poäng som försvann under lördagen plus en därtill. Inför säsongens sista tävlingshelg i Chile i december skiljer därför bara tre poäng upp till ledande Acciona Sainz. Ett bra slagläge för 2021 års mästarteam.
23-09-17 ABT CUPRA XE top Qualifying in Island X Prix Round 8
ABT CUPRA XE finish as top Qualifiers at the Island X Prix Round 8, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
Coming out on top in Qualifying 1 Heat 1 and second in Qualifying 2 Heat 1, Round 7 podium finishers Klara Andersson and Sébastien Loeb reach the top of the standings to enter their second Grand Final of the weekend.
Joining ABT CUPRA XE are No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, and JBXE, with all teams level on points after Qualifying. The American outfit tops the trio with the quickest Continental Traction Challenge, followed by X44. JBXE finish fourth in overall Qualifying, securing a spot in the Grand Final for a second time this season.
Rounding out the Top 5 are Rosberg X Racing, who finished level on points with the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team following a DNF for the Spanish outfit in Q2. A quicker Continental Traction Challenge for Nico Rosberg’s team sees them take the last spot in the Grand Final and gain the advantage in the title-fight.
The remaining five teams will fight it out in the Redemption Race, including championship leaders ASXE and title contenders Veloce Racing, to determine sixth to tenth place in the Round 8 standings.
Qualifying 1 Heat 1
Not for the first time this weekend we saw an ODYSSEY 21 on two wheels through the opening corner, as ABT CUPRA XE’s Loeb came into contact with the back of Timo Scheider’s Carl Cox Motorsport car.
Scheider held the lead, with X44 in second and Loeb behind in third, before the Frenchman spotted the gap and dived up the inside to take second from Fraser McConnell, along with some bodywork.
Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen also found his way passed the damaged X44 ODYSSEY 21 for third, before inheriting second when Scheider was forced to pull aside with an issue that ended Carl Cox Motorsport’s race.
A controlled drive from Andersson saw ABT CUPRA XE take the Heat 1 win, and it looked to be second for Taylor but the Veloce car slowed to a halt with an electrical failure on the final corner of the race. Unable to restart the car, JBXE’s Andreas Bakkerud passed the Australian to take second, and X44’s Cristina Gutiérrez crawled passed to finish third.
Qualifying 1 Heat 2
In one of the calmest starts this weekend, No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson took first, while Mattias Ekström ran wide in the ASXE car to slot into third behind RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson.
The Swede put on the pressure as he tried to take first from Anderson, but the American held on into the Switch Zone.Mistakes in the driver change, however, saw the team drop back from first to third.
Competitive racing from the female drivers saw all four teams close together, but just as Munnings looked to be about to pass Amanda Sorensen for third, the Brit went into the back of the No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing car in the water, resulting in a DNF for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E.
The rest of the race went down to the wire, as ASXE’s Laia Sanz got the best exit from the final corner and managed to pip RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulsinky on the finish line to steal the win by 0.061 seconds as the title-battle continues to heat up.
Qualifying 2 Heat 1
Deploying her ENOWA Hyperdrive slightly later than the rest of the grid paid off for Gutiérrez, as the Spaniard’s speed took her all the way round the outside to take the lead for X44.
RXR’s Åhlin-Kottulinsky ran in second, ahead of Andersson in the ABT CUPRA XE car, while Lia Block pulled off an overtake on Andretti Altawkilat’s Munnings to take fourth for Carl Cox Motorsport.
Following the driver change in the Switch Zone, McConnell kept his cool to take the Heat win for X44. A 10-second penalty for dropping a Way Point flag in the closing stages saw RXR drop behind ABT CUPRA XE, ensuring Loeb and Andersson’s spot in the Grand Final alongside X44.
Third in the Heat would prove enough for RXR to take the last spot in the Grand Final, with the team’s Continental Traction Challenge time coming into play to put them above their rivals, ASXE.
A 10-second penalty for Carl Cox Motorsport for dropping a Way Point flag meant the team dropped to fifth behind Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, and both teams will be fighting it out in the Redemption Race.
Qualifying 2 Heat 2
Contact between ASXE and Veloce at the start saw the latter drop off-course and to the back of the pack, putting Taylor on the back foot before the first corner. Bakkerud took the lead for JBXE ahead of Sorensen in the No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing car, as Sanz slotted into third.
Veloce Racing soon slowed to a halt, but after managing to restart the car, the team crawled around for the remainder of the race with broken power steering. This would prove crucial for the Qualifying standings when ASXE’s ODYSSEY 21 came to a stop out on-course. Unable to rejoin the Heat, Ekström was eventually passed by Hansen, dropping into fourth behind Veloce and going level on points with RXR.
Anderson pulled off a risky manoeuvre to take the lead from JBXE’s Hosås, and it paid off as the American surged into the lead to take the win in the closing stages.
JBXE joins No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing in the Grand Final, with the latter securing the quickest Continental Traction Challenge of the day so far. Meanwhile, championship hopefuls ASXE and Veloce Racing will have to salvage some points in the Redemption Race.
Q1 Heat 1:
1. ABT CUPRA XE 9:51.079mins
2. JBXE +6.340s
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +1:05.849s (PENALISED)
4. Veloce Racing DNF
5. Carl Cox Motorsport DNF
Q1 Heat 2:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team 9:53.498mins
2. Rosberg X Racing +0.061s
3. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +0.977s
4. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E DNF
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team DNS
Q2 Heat 1:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing 9:29.983mins
2. ABT CUPRA XE +10.678s
3. Rosberg X Racing +11.259s (PENALISED)
4. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +13.734s
5. Carl Cox Motorsport +21.437s (PENALISED)
Q2 Heat 2:
1. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +10:05.384s
2. JBXE +1.514s
3. Veloce Racing +5:49.682s
4. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team DNF
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team DNS
Overall Qualifying Standings:
1. ABT CUPRA XE: 18 points
2. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 16 points
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 16 points
4. JBXE: 16 points
5. Rosberg X Racing: 14 points
6. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 14 points
7. Veloce Racing: 10 points
8. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 8 points
9. Carl Cox Motorsport: 4 points
10. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 0 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-16 ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team take victory in a dramatic Round 7 finale
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team took the win in Round 7, marking the team’s second victory of Season 3 and first victory at an Island X Prix, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
Laia Sanz and Mattias Ekström took the win having dominated the day’s racing action with two Heat victories in Qualifying, and the Spanish team extends its lead to 18 points in the championship standings.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “Today was a perfect day, one of the best we have enjoyed so far in Extreme E. This doesn’t happen very often, because everything can happen in this Championship. Mattias made a massive start in the Final. Both of us did really well in the Qualifying heats. We did a good job. We are happy and today we will enjoy it, but at the same time, we are still focused on tomorrow. We want this Championship and we must keep fighting.”
Mattias Ekström, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “I think it was a really good day. We felt good yesterday in the dry and today with the watered track. We had a good set-up, good strategy, and two good Qualifying heats. I think the key to the race win was the first corner at the start. I made a move around the outside and went from P4 to P1, and after this, I had a clean windscreen and a beautiful, enjoyable few laps. I enjoyed it a lot. Laia made no mistakes, she was very clean. We did a really good job today.”
In a Grand Final that saw considerable to damage to four of the five cars competing, ABT CUPRA XE crawled across the line in second ahead of Veloce Racing, as the British squad struggled to find the finish line with broken wipers.
Rosberg X Racing (RXR), who had appeared out of contention when Johan Kristoffersson came to a stop on his opening stint, gained crucial championship points with fourth place despite broken power steering.
A DNF for Lia Block and Timo Scheider, having run in second place for most of the race, denied the pair their first podium together for Carl Cox Motorsport.
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Winners of the Redemption Race and the Continental Traction Challenge were Timmy Hansen and Catie Munnings, as Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E ended the day on a high following a DNF in Qualifying 1 and a DNS in Qualifying 2.
Find out where to watch tomorrow’s racing action here as Extreme E heads into Round 8 at the Island X Prix in Sardinia.
Grand Final
As the teams charged towards the first corner, an out of the box move from Ekström saw the ASXE driver storm around the outside of the pack. The Spaniard held the inside line into the next corner to take the lead from Carl Cox Motorsport’s Scheider.
Viewers were treated to another amazing overtake, this time from Veloce Racing’s Hansen, as the Swede hit the brakes late into the corner to cut inside Scheider for second place.
Meanwhile, RXR’s hopes of another Sardinian podium were dashed when their ODYSSEY 21, having slowed to a halt, rejoined the race far behind with broken power steering.
Once the teams were in the Switch Zone, all eyes were on Veloce Racing as the team identified that the wipers were broken. This allowed Carl Cox Motorsport to exit the driver change in second, and meant Taylor would have to battle visibility issues throughout her two laps.
Up ahead, the Carl Cox Motorsport car also ended up in the bushes and, unable to restart, the team suffered a DNF and missed out on a debut podium for Block.
Taylor ultimately lost out to ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson, but the Swede spun shortly after getting through, as damage to the rear of the car sabotaged her control. Taylor was unable to capitalise however, as the Australian veered off course with zero visibility.
ASXE crossed the line in first, comfortably ahead of the struggling pack. Next across the line was ABT CUPRA XE, while the Veloce Racing ODYSSEY 21 seemed to be everywhere but the track, missing Way Points on the way to the finish line and third place.
The British outfit closes the gap on RXR in the three-way championship tussle, as Nico Rosberg’s team crossed the line fourth and hold onto second, 18 points adrift of ASXE and just 8 points ahead of Veloce Racing.
Redemption Race
The five teams activated their ENOWA Hyperdrives to try to steal the early lead over the jump. As they came together, battling for the best line into the first corner, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tamara Molinaro entered a big roll.
The medical team has deemed that Molinaro has no apparent injury but the Italian was transferred to the medical centre for precautionary checks. X44 Vida Carbon Racing also ended the day with a DNF, sustaining damage as the teams tussled in the early stages.
Powering on, RJ Anderson held the lead for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, ahead of JBXE’s Hedda Hosås and Timmy Hansen in the repaired Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E ODYSSEY 21.
Hansen managed to get around Hosås as the teams approached the slow zone by Molinaro’s ODYSSEY 21. A miscommunication for Anderson saw him slow down a Way Point too soon, allowing Hansen and Hosås to storm ahead before the American regained second for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing.
Following the driver change in the Switch Zone, Andreas Bakkerud begun his charge for JBXE, slotting into second ahead of the water splash and pulling away as Amanda Sorensen struggled with visibility in third.
RESULTS
Grand Final
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team 09:14.173
2. ABT CUPRA XE +42.766s
3. Veloce Racing +1:05.976s (PENALISED)
4. Rosberg X Racing +3:42.025s
5. Carl Cox Motorsport DNF
Redemption Race
1. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E 10:35.722
2. JBXE +7.492s
3. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +11.998s
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +21.893s DNF
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team DNF
Championship Standings
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 136 points
2. Rosberg X Racing: 118 points
3. Veloce Racing: 110 points
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 84 points
5. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 65 points
6. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 61 points
7. ABT CUPRA XE: 59 points
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 45 points
9. Carl Cox Motorsport: 36 points
10. JBXE: 32 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-16 ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team top Qualifying in Round 7 at the Island X Prix
The ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team finished as top qualifiers in Round 7 of Season 3 at the Island X Prix, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
Coming out on top in Qualifying 1 Heat 1 and Qualifying 2 Heat 1, championship leaders Laia Sanz and Mattias Ekström secured a perfect 20 points to reach the top of the Qualifying standings.
Joining the Spanish outfit are ABT CUPRA XE, after a win in Q1 H2 and second in their Q2 Heat 2 put Klara Andersson and Sébastien Loeb through to the team's second Grand Final of the season.
Finishing third in overall Qualifying are Veloce Racing, who keep their championship fight alive with P2 in both of their Qualifying Heats. Also keeping the title within reach are Rosberg X Racing (RXR), having finished third in their Q1 Heat and taking the win in Q2 Heat 2 to enter the Grand Final.
Rounding out the Top 5 are Carl Cox Motorsport, with second place in Q1 Heat 1 and third in Q2 Heat 2, as Lia Block enters her first Extreme E Grand Final.
The remaining five teams will fight it out in the Redemption Race to determine sixth to tenth place in the Round 7 standings.
Qualifying 1 Heat 1
Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider took the early lead ahead of Ekström for ASXE. Exiting the first corner, RJ Anderson promptly slotted into third for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing car, ahead of JBXE’s Hedda Hosås.
Following Emma Gilmour’s incident in Free Practice yesterday, the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team had to serve a 30-second penalty in Qualifying 1 for switching to the championship car. Tamara Molinaro – stepping in for Gilmour – was the only driver not to use her ENOWA Hyperdrive off the start, allowing the team to avoid trouble from the rest of the grid.
Ekström continued to pile pressure on Scheider out in front, and the two cars soon came together, damaging the rear of the Carl Cox Motorsport machine. Scheider held on to enter the Switch Zone inches ahead of Ekström, with Anderson right in the mix following the incident between the pair in front.
Executing the driver change better than their rivals, the ASXE Team exited ahead of Carl Cox Motorsport. The teams each held track position for the remaining two laps, with Laia Sanz taking the Heat 1 win for the Spanish outfit.
Qualifying 1 Heat 2
All five teams remained close over the jump and into the first corner, where Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Timmy Hansen collided with RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson.
Seizing the opportunity, X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell dropped back to cut up the inside of RXR for the lead, with ABT CUPRA XE’s Sébastien Loeb slotting into third.
Managing to keep his car on all four wheels, Hansen joined the back of the pack behind his brother in the Veloce Racing ODYSSEY 21. Kevin Hansen soon passed the ABT CUPRA XE car as it looked to be causing problems for Loeb.
Cristina Gutiérrez set off to hold the win for X44 Vida Carbon Racing, but soon had to pull over due to an issue with her ODYSSEY 21. Forced to slow down behind the Spaniard in a narrow section, RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky was soon under pressure from Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor.
Suffering from the damage caused to the Altawkilat Extreme E car in the first corner of the race, Catie Munnings also came to a stop near the start of her stint.
The resulting slow zone was cleared just as RXR and Veloce Racing approached the WayPoint. However, a miscommunication for RXR saw them slow for a yellow flag, allowing ABT CUPRA XE’s Andersson to storm into the lead. Having initially slowed down too, Taylor reacted quickly to take second from Åhlin-Kottulinsky, and the three teams finished Heat 2 in this order.
Qualifying 2 Heat 1
After a clean start it was ASXE’s Sanz in the lead ahead of Gutiérrezz for X44 Vida Carbon Racing. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust pushed hard and pulled off an overtake on Taylor to take third, while No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racincg’s Amanda Sorensen worked to close a considerable gap to the rest of the pack.
Crucially, Veloce Racing’s Taylor did not let Foust pull away, and the four teams entered the Switch Zone in quick succession, just as X44 Vida Carbon Racing were awarded a 10-second penalty for dropping a WayPoint flag.
Ekström brought the ASXE car home in first, cementing the team’s place in the Grand Final. Behind, Kevin Hansen passed Molinaro and closed the gap to McConnell enough to be promoted into second in the Heat and into the Grand Final.
No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Anderson took fourth from Molinaro, but shortly after the Italian pulled up on track, meaning a DNF for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team and a spot in the Redemption Race.
Third was not enough to see X44 Vida Carbon Racing through to the Grand Final, and they enter the Redemption Race alongside No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, who find themselves in their first Redemption Race of the season.
Qualifying 2 Heat 2
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E were unable to start the second Qualifying session due to the extent of the damage from Qualifying 1, and the DNS secured their spot in the Redemption Race.
Andreas Bakkerud took an early lead for JBXE, ahead of RXR’s Åhlin-Kottulinsky in second and Lia Block in third, after the American overtook ABT CUPRA XE’s Andersson. Block spun shortly after, allowing the Swede to regain the position.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky kept Bakkerud within reach, before the Norwegian pulled off track due to an issue with his ODYSSEY 21. This handed the lead to RXR, which Kristoffersson kept until the finish line to secure the team’s spot in the Grand Final.
Second place for ABT CUPRA XE after a comfortable drive from Loeb sees them through to the Grand Final. Third for Carl Cox Motorsport places them in the last spot on the Grand Final grid, a first for Block in just her second-ever X Prix, while the DNF for JBXE puts them in the Redemption Race.
Q1 Heat 1:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team 9:50.643mins
2. Carl Cox Motorsport +1.935s
3. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +6.027s
4. JBXE +8.876s
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +39.660s
Q1 Heat 2:
1. ABT CUPRA XE 10:02.949mins
2. Veloce Racing +3.314s
3. Rosberg X Racing +10.833s
4. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E DNF
5. X44 Vida Carbon Racing DNF
Q2 Heat 1:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team 9:37.429mins
2. Veloce Racing +4.405s
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +11.954s (PENALISED)
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +29.273s
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team DNF
Q2 Heat 2:
1. Rosberg X Racing 9:55.156mins
2. ABT CUPRA XE +14.606s
3. Carl Cox Motorsport +30.809s (PENALISED)
4. JBXE DNF
5. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E DNS
Overall Qualifying Standings:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 20 points
2. ABT CUPRA XE: 18 points
3. Veloce Racing: 16 points
4. Rosberg X Racing: 16 points
5. Carl Cox Motorsport: 14 points
6. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 10 points
7. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 10 points
8. JBXE: 8 points
9. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 4 points
10. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 2 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-15 Rosberg X Racing set the early pace ahead of Island X Prix
Extreme E’s Sardinia return got underway today with Free Practice for its fourth-double header of Season 3. The championship teams got to grips with an altered Sardinian course ahead of the Island X Prix racing action, co-organised by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The new Island X Prix course sits within the Capo Teulada military training area, in collaboration with the Italian Army, and there is plenty to contend with as the drivers face additional jumps and water splashes.
During Free Practice 1, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Emma Gilmour was involved in an incident, following which the New Zealander was transported to Cagliari hospital for precautionary checks.
The NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team have confirmed that Gilmour has undergone additional tests at the hospital, where further examination showed she has a small rib fracture. As per standard procedure, Gilmour will be under observation in the hospital for the next 24 hours.
As a result, Gilmour will be unable to compete for the remainder of the Island X Prix this weekend. Extreme E’s Championship Driver, Tamara Molinaro, will compete alongside Tanner Foust, marking the first time the Italian has competed this season.
The top three teams in the championship standings recorded the three quickest times in Free Practice, demonstrating the speed that has made them title contenders this season.
Fastest were Season 1 champions Rosberg X Racing (RXR), on the charge from back-to-back wins in July, with a time of 9:36.271mins in a location they seem to favour.
Off the back of victories in Rounds 5 and 6 at the previous Island X Prix, Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Johan Kristoffersson continued their dominant form to set the quickest time of the day by just 1.115 seconds.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, Rosberg X Racing, remarked: "Having the quickest time in free practice is a positive sign for us. Sardinia has always showcased our team at our best. The reconfigured track will provide new challenges and opportunities. We've still got some work ahead of us, but we're eager to give it everything we've got this weekend."
Behind Nico Rosberg’s outfit were current championship leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, with championship contenders Veloce Racing finishing in third, thanks in part to Kevin Hansen securing the quickest lap of the day with a 1:53.122.
Less than nine seconds separate the top six teams as we head into what promises to be another thrilling Sardinian installment. The racing action can be viewed on ITV in the UK across the weekend. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
Free Practice combined timings:
1. Rosberg X Racing: 09:26.271 (FP2)
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 09:27.386 (FP2)
3. Veloce Racing: 09:32.168 (FP2)
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 09:33.492 (FP2)
5. ABT CUPRA XE: 09:34.529 (FP2)
6. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 09:34.827 (FP2)
7. Carl Cox Motorsport: 09:43.972 (FP2)
8. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 09:54.234 (FP2)
9. JBXE: 09:56.490 (FP2)
10. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 21:54.418 (FP2)
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-14 Extreme E reveals unique new course layout ahead of Sardinia return
As the Island X Prix draws ever closer, a new course layout has been created for Extreme E’s return to Sardinia for Rounds 7 and 8 of Season 3 (September 16-17), co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The pioneering championship has added some new, exciting features to the Italian course, which offers a new challenge to the 10 teams and 20 world-class drivers behind the wheel of their ODYSSEY 21s.
The new Island X Prix course sits within the Capo Teulada military training area, in collaboration with the Italian Army. There will be plenty to contend with out on course to secure maximum points from the weekend’s racing.
Extreme E caught up with Championship Driver Patrick O’Donovan to explain the latest three-kilometre Island X Prix course and how its new layout differs from the series’ previous visit in July.
O’Donovan said: “For a fan of Extreme E the start of the races will be really interesting, as there is potential for five cars abreast going over the first jump with a slight kink to the left before you have a braking zone for the opening right-hander.
“That first turn is extremely slippery, as it is a soft surface through there, so I think that will be a really exciting part of the track. There’s potential for a lot of overtaking there and a few drivers will no doubt try to make decisive moves which will be quite cool!
“I think the new additions of the water splash sections could be quite interesting. If one driver goes through they will have the fresh water splash on their windscreen, but if there is a second driver quite close to them, that will mean dispersed water they are driving through. As a result, the driver behind could carry more speed and perhaps get an overtake on the exit, so I’m excited to see how that all pans out.
“I’ve been out there in the ODYSSEY 21 and I’ve seen after the second water splash it can be particularly challenging under braking heading to the next Way Point. It’s quite easy to misjudge, lock up, and make a little mistake which will cost time.
“Heading over the hill and down towards Way Points 11 and 12 will be really challenging for the drivers. We saw that last time out and I think it will be similar this weekend. You’ve got a downhill braking zone into the left-hander, which has a really soft surface there, and could change throughout the weekend. It is also a corner prone to understeer.
“You then have the flick to the right-hander before you go back up the hill and all of a sudden you go from mass understeer to a lot of oversteer hopping over the terrain, so it’s a challenging place to try and find grip.
“You’re never too sure whether you want to come off the throttle slightly to stop the wheel spin or if it’s more beneficial just to keep your foot planted and hope the wheels grab some grip. That can make for some excitement out on course. I think it adds a new element throughout the weekend and it’s one of my favourite things about racing off-road - as the surfaces are always changing and it’s never the same course terrain lap after lap.
“There are definitely some interesting overtaking spots out on course. You could potentially go for a block pass into the technical section of Way Points 11 and 12. The water splashes will be quite interesting - it might be considered risky to make a move, but I would think about it because not many would anticipate it.
“Heading into the first turn, after that initial jump, is a corner where there’s a bit of braking and you can rotate the car a little bit sideways and manage the throttle from there. I don’t think anyone will be expecting you to make a move up the inside. It will no doubt be on the limit, but there is definitely a chance you could pull it off.
“I think it’s going to be a really interesting course. There are so many places for potential overtakes and possibilities to see some exciting racing out on track.”
Extreme E has been working closely with Automobile Club d’Italia - the national sports federation co-organising and coordinating the event - the Region of Sardinia, and its Tourism Department, plus the Ministry of Defence and the Italian Army to deliver what promises to be a an action-packed weekend of racing, as the 2023 championship heads towards its closing stages in the stunning setting of Sardinia.
The racing action on the new course design can be viewed on ITV in the UK across the weekend. Outside of the UK, please visit?here?for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-13 Just days to go until Extreme E returns in Sardinia
Rounds 7 and 8 of pioneering racing series Extreme E take place this weekend (16-17 September) in Sardinia, as the 2023 championships heads towards a dramatic climax.
The electric off-road racing series will be returning to the familiar setting of the Italian Army Training area at Capo Teulada in Sulcis-Iglesiente, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The Teulada route provides a challenging backdrop for the course, with some changes to the configuration creating a unique challenge for the 10 teams and 20 world class drivers.
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team (ASXE) currently leads the Extreme E Season 3 standings with 109 points, with Rosberg X Racing (RXR) a close second with 105 points – four off the lead – while two-time race winners in 2023, Veloce Racing, sit third. Last year’s champions, Sir Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing, are fifth in the standings behind No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing.
With four different winners across just six rounds, Season 3 is the most closely-fought campaign of Extreme E to date and plenty more action and drama is expected as the championship returns to the Italian island.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “We are delighted to be returning to Sardinia as Extreme E Season 3 heads towards a critical stage in the championship. With so many contenders for victories and podiums, anything can happen in Extreme E and we are eagerly looking forward to the battles on track.
“Sardinia has been the setting for some thrilling on-track moments since we launched, and has become a permanent fixture on the championship calendar ever since.
“It is a spectacular location, and from a climate crisis perspective it is a region with an important story to tell given all that has occurred across Europe in terms of extreme weather conditions, especially this summer. Sardinia and the Mediterranean has faced multiple challenges throughout the summer as a result of the heatwave and rising global temperatures, and it is important for us to shed light on the climate emergency experienced there.”
An exciting new course has been adapted especially for this event, which will once again be based in the familiar setting of the Italian Army Training area at Capo Teulada in Sulcis-Iglesiente, and hosted in collaboration with Automobile Club d’Italia (ACI), Regione Sardegna, and the Italian Army.
Out on the track, one name who will be returning to Sardinia after a successful return to the series in July is Sébastien Loeb.
The nine-time World Rally Champion will partner Klara Andersson once again, replacing Nasser Al-Attiyah. Loeb made his debut for ABT CUPRA XE in July, his first Extreme E appearance since winning the Extreme E Season 2 title with Sir Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing last season, finishing fourth and sixth place, respectively, at the Island X Prix.
Rising rallycross star Patrick O’Donovan will also continue in the role of male Championship Driver after a successful stint at the previous X Prix in Sardinia, undertaking duties alongside home favourite and female Championship Driver Tamara Molinaro.
Enno Straten, Head of Strategy, Analytics & Marketing – EMEA at Continental, said: "With the race in Sardinia, the next highly exciting battle of Extreme E is coming up. We are again looking forward to tough duels and a fair fight for the top positions."
Nico Rosberg’s Rosberg X Racing (RXR) are the most successful team when it comes to the Island X Prix, with four victories from five races on the Italian island since the series launched in 2021, including in the previous visit in July.
No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing are the only other team to take victory on the Italian island, claiming their debut series win in Sardinia last term – and have a strong record on the region’s terrain having secured a further podium in Italy earlier this year.
With 14 points separating the top three in the championship standings, and eight of the series’ 10 teams having already taken a podium finish this season, it is all set for another Extreme E classic in Sardinia.
The racing action, and further details about the series’ Legacy Programme in Sardinia, can be viewed on ITV in the UK across the weekend. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-13 Timmy Hansen on the series' return to Sardinia
After claiming a dramatic podium finish the last time Extreme E raced on the Italian island two months ago, Andretti Altawkilat's Timmy Hansen sets out the team's ambitions ahead of the upcoming Island X Prix.
Extreme E: Andretti Altawkilat have had both highs and lows this season, what’s the mood like in the team?
Timmy Hansen: “It’s a great mood. We have got a great team together and spirits are definitely high. We haven’t won this season, but we did cross the line first in Scotland (a post-race penalty dropped the team to second). We were up there fighting for a potential win.
"We did get a podium in Sardinia finally, though, and we have to look at the positive there and know that in Extreme E anything can happen – there are so many things involved in getting the result. Definitely on the performance side we are looking to be up there, be fast and get the best starts, one day sooner or later the win will come, as will podiums.
XE: Do you enjoy racing in Sardinia?
TH: “Yes definitely. It’s a great track and a classic of Extreme E. We’ve done many races there and it is challenging with harsh terrain plus difficult to get the car set up perfectly. We will have some changes for this upcoming event, which I am excited about, but we’ll see how we go. We had a good car last time so hopefully it will be the same this time round.”
XE: Last time out you had Michael Andretti with the team, how was that experience?
TH: “For me it was fantastic, Michael reminds me a lot of my own dad, he’s just a pure racer. I’ve grown up in a family where racing is everything, we talk about racing, live racing and that always performance comes first. Michael is definitely the same, you can tell he grew up in a racing family, too.
“He was really pushing me on last time out in Sardinia, to risk it, to take a chance, to go for it and all those things, so I really enjoyed having his support last time out and I think that was definitely part of the success. I know he won’t be there this time, but I am proud to race under the Andretti name and looking forward to doing that again.”
XE: You got on the podium the last time we were in Sardinia in July. What will be key to getting back on the podium this time around?
TH: “When Catie [Munnings] did that incredible overtake, getting the final spot on the podium at the last corner, it was absolutely brilliant. Those are the things you need to bring out in the moment and of course you need to have a good day, good car and strong team, but I think we have all that. We will hope the form is there still and take the chances when they come.”
XE: A couple of podiums in the last few rounds have moved you up the standings to sixth, just four points behind X44 Vida Carbon Racing. How focused are you on the leaderboard?
TH: “Actually not so much to be honest. We’d been hoping to fight a little further up, but that’s that. The only thing you can do, whether you are focused on the leaderboard or not, is to go out there on track and give it everything you’ve got. That’s the only way, no matter what the championship standings are, if you’re leading, if you’re last, it’s the same approach. I’ve learned the hard way that you can’t think about the championship really. You just go out and deliver and that’s what we’ll do.”
XE: This is your third season with Catie as your teammate. How has your teamwork developed over the years?
TH: “Yeah I think we’ve gotten along all the time and we’ve definitely grown together into the sport and into what we are today with the team. It feels very comfortable to work with Catie, we know each other very well, she knows how to get me in the right mood for racing, really supporting me through the difficult and the good times and the same with me to her.
“She has done incredible moves through the years and I like to remind her of that when she’s feeling nervous or the pressure is building up. We work very well together and very happy that she is my teammate.
XE: You took a victory in Season 1 and nearly took a victory at the Hydro X Prix this year. Do you feel the next win is fast approaching?
TH: “You never know but I certainly hope so, we have to keep delivering and keep going fast. There are so many things to an Extreme E weekend, first of all the Qualifying session, if that goes bad you’ll likely miss the Grand Final, you can always fight back, but you’ll have to really put it together every single session. It’s not easy with the grid draws being as they are but that’s the risky nature of the sport.
“I hope the win will come soon. I hope for this weekend of course, but it’s about putting in the performance, being fast and taking the opportunities when they come which is key. We have what it takes to win one of these races and we can definitely do it again.”
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-09-13 Nya segrar på Sardinien?
Efter två månaders uppehåll återvänder Extreme E till Sardinien. Rosberg X Racing med Johan Kristoffersson och Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky får en ny möjlighet på banan där man tog dubbla segrar i juli.
- Både jag och Mikaela trivs där, även om det var en del tillfälligheter som hjälpte oss senast, säger Kristoffersson.
Efter en trög inledning på den tredje säsongen av terrängserien med eldrivna bilar blev det storslam för RXR på den italienska ön före sommaruppehållet. En framgång man förstås kan ta med sig in i den kommande helgen när två nya tävlingar väntar.
- Framför allt tar vi emot alla poängen vi fick då. Det känns som att vi är tillbaka i slagläge. Nu gäller det att se till att vi kan åka till finalen med en chans att vinna.
Efter Sardinien återstår endast avslutningen i Chile i början av december. Där vill Kristoffersson och Åhlin-Kottulinsky ha revansch för fjolåret då man förlorade mästerskapstiteln i sista racet.
Förutsättningarna är goda att plocka på sig nya poäng. Sardinien är den tävlingsplats där Kristoffersson har lyckats allra bäst i Extreme E.
- Vi har varit först över mållinjen alla gånger utom senast, men då vann vi ändå.
RXR-duon svarade för ett riktigt konststycke i den senaste tävlingen, då Johan såg ut att ha kraschat bilen och segerchanserna, men där han och Åhlin-Kottulinsky arbetade sig upp till andra plats och sedan fick segern efter en diskvalificering. I sammandraget ligger nu Rosberg X Racing tvåa, fyra poäng efter ledande Acciona Sainz. Johans strategi är den samma som alltid.
- Inga misstag och inga stora risktagningar. Det brukar vara ett vinnande koncept.
Under sommaren har Kristoffersson visat god form i rallycrossens RallyX, precis som Åhlin-Kottulinsky har visat framfötterna i RX2e. Ett gott tecken?
- Det är alltid bra att få lite körning, men jag tror att de flesta i den här serien har andra styrningar också. Det är många som är bra nu, så det blir tufft och jämnt.
Även banans beskaffenhet borgar för att det kan bli täta race.
- Stora delar av banan är likadan som senast, men starten är lite annorlunda. Det som jag kan tycka är en liten nackdel är att den inte är så utslagsgivande. Man kan inte påverka så mycket som förare som jag skulle önska.
Vilket Johan ändå lyckades motbevisa under senaste tävlingshelgen när han hämtade in det hopplösa underläget på närmare tio sekunder.
Kristoffersson menar att Laia Sanz och Mattias Ekström är laget att slå. Intressant är också att Sébastien Loeb än en gång gör Klara Andersson sällskap i ABT Cupra.
- Det är bra. Loeb är tuff men ärlig. En bra värdemätare.
Säsongens sjunde race körs under lördagen och det åttonde dagen efter. Många poäng på spel i Island X Prix alltså.
23-09-12 Sébastien Loeb returns to Extreme E with ABT CUPRA XE
Sébastien Loeb will continue with ABT CUPRA XE for Rounds 7 and 8 of Extreme E Season 3 in Sardinia, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The nine-time World Rally Champion will partner Klara Andersson once again, replacing Nasser Al-Attiyah. Loeb took part in the Island X Prix for ABT CUPRA XE in July, his first Extreme E appearance since winning the Extreme E Season 2 title with Sir Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing last term, finishing fourth and sixth place, respectively, on the Italian island.
Sébastien Loeb, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “It’s great to be back in Sardinia with ABT and CUPRA for two more races. I’m really looking forward to meeting Klara and the team again, because I have very good memories of the last time.
"We didn’t get the results we expected and probably deserved, so we’ll do our best to do better this time.”
Thomas Biermaier, ABT CEO and Team Principal, added: “We are very happy that Seb is part of our team again.
“We are all having great fun working together, but at the same time it also feels a bit like ‘Unfinished Business’, because Klara and Seb were clearly among the candidates for victory in July with their strong performances. Now they get a second chance in the new edition in Sardinia, which they are determined to make the most of.”
The Frenchman is a multiple winner in Extreme E with two X Prix victories, as well as six podiums and six top qualifier finishes.
You can see how Loeb and Andersson fare when the series returns to Sardinia on 16-17 September. The racing action can be viewed on ITV in the UK across the weekend. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-08-31 Extreme E and the FIA announce plans for first-ever off-road hydrogen racing world championship
The Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) and Extreme E have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding setting out a framework to create the first-ever hydrogen off-road racing world championship.
This document is the first step in establishing a pathway for the hydrogen series, Extreme H, to become an FIA Championship from its inaugural season in 2025, with the intention that it will become an FIA World Championship from 2026, should the requisite criteria be met.
In addition, the pathway outlines that in 2024 Extreme E, currently an FIA International Series, would be recognised as an FIA Championship.
Extreme H would join the company of just seven other official FIA World Championships, which includes ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. This planned pathway to FIA World Championship status demonstrates the series’ progression since its inception in 2021 and a strong statement of intent for its growth towards its hydrogen-powered future. Development of the Extreme H series is underway, with plans advanced to have a prototype launched later this year ahead of the first season in 2025.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “Establishing alongside the FIA a world-first hydrogen racing world championship will be a momentous milestone for Extreme E and the new Extreme H series. Eventual accreditation as an FIA Championship and then an FIA World Championship means we would be amongst the top tier of global motorsport categories, and Extreme H would be the first-ever world championship racing series of its kind.
“What started as a conversation many years ago about racing in extreme environments, showcasing the incredible performance and innovation of E-SUVs, has now demonstrated enormous growth and further pioneering technical advances as we move forward with the transition to hydrogen and Extreme H – a world-first.
“This announcement is a significant first step in the development of our championship and our ground-breaking transition to hydrogen-powered racing. Sport is the most powerful and effective platform to drive innovation and our commitment to delivering sustainable motorsport championships full of excitement and with a reduced carbon footprint are testament to that.
“Once it achieves FIA World Championship status, Extreme H will continue what Extreme E started as a pioneering motorsport series and we look forward to delivering another spectacular sporting product. I’d like to thank the President and the FIA for their continued support and recognition of our ambition to create a world-first for motor racing. Expect to see yet more exciting racing out on course, as well as further pushing the boundaries of new technologies in the race to tackle climate issues.”
Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, said: “We are excited to continue working with Extreme E on their journey to becoming an FIA World Championship. Using sustainable power sources in motor sport is the key objective of the FIA and part of our long-term strategy, and this series is an ideal showcase for that. Hydrogen is an important part of that mix, and we have developed a set of safety regulations for hydrogen-powered vehicles which is part of the FIA’s International Sporting Code.
“It is encouraging that such a major motor sport entity as Extreme E with its renowned line-up of teams sees the same potential in hydrogen technology. Their approach to equality and diversity matches ours as we push to make motor sport accessible for all.
“Motor sport competition serves as an excellent research and development platform and this new series has great potential. Having the technology tested in the harsh environment of off-road racing in all types of conditions should benefit the whole industry, and in the longer term make mobility more environmentally friendly for everyday users of the road. We are looking forward to working with Extreme E, sharing our know-how and expertise.”
Extreme E boasts legendary motorsport names across its championship, from team owners Sir Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg and Jenson Button to motorsport heavyweights McLaren, Andretti and Chip Ganassi – with world champions across multiple disciplines competing in the series since it launched just over two years ago.
The first sport to ever be built out of a social purpose, Extreme E – and Extreme H from 2025 – aims to minimise environmental impact while maximising awareness, racing in places that have already been damaged or affected by climate change or human interference, and taking fans deep into the heart of the most pressing issues facing our planet’s future.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-08-29 Extreme E to return to Sardinia for Rounds 7 and 8 of Season 3
Extreme E has today confirmed that the championship will return to Sardinia on 16-17 September for the penultimate X Prix, Rounds 7 and 8, of the 2023 campaign.
With Italy now a permanent fixture on the Extreme E calendar – the championship having raced there in all three seasons so far – returning to Sardinia for Rounds 7 and 8 is a fantastic opportunity to race in a spectacular location and use existing infrastructure.
Sardinia has been the scene of some of the series’ most dramatic moments since launching in 2021. An exciting new course will be designed specifically for this event, which will once again be based in the familiar setting of the Italian Army Training area at Capo Teulada in Sulcis-Iglesiente, and hosted in collaboration with Automobile Club d’Italia (ACI), Regione Sardegna, and the Italian Army.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “It’s exciting news that Extreme E will be heading back to Sardinia for the next rounds of the championship in September. Sardinia has been the setting for some thrilling on-track moments since we launched Extreme E and always provides incredible racing, with yet more expected when we return in September.
“What’s more, given what has been happening across Europe with the extreme heat and weather patterns experienced throughout the continent, there is an important climate story to tell.
“As a global championship, it remains our ambition to host a race in the USA in the future, as well as in other regions across South America, such is the passion for motorsport there. Nevertheless our return to Chile, which was a hugely successful event for Extreme E in 2022, will go ahead in December as our Season 3 Finale.
“I must pay tribute to the support of the Automobile Club d'Italia, the Italian military, and Regione Sardegna who have been integral in enabling us to go racing in Sardinia. They have been such accommodating partners and hugely flexible to allow us the opportunity to return. We are grateful for such a trusted long-term partnership and we are delighted to return to Sardinia for more spectacular racing in September.”
A return to Sardinia for Rounds 7 and 8 will also mark the backdrop for Extreme E’s most competitive championship yet, with leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team heading the standings with 109 points, just four clear of nearest challengers and Season 1 Champions Rosberg X Racing. Veloce Racing, two-time winners in 2023, are a further 10 points back in third.
James Taylor, Chief Championship Officer at Extreme E, added: “We are extremely grateful to the Automobile Club d’Italia, Regione Sardegna, and the Italian Army to be able to return to Sardinia for the next rounds of the 2023 championship.
“Extreme E has developed a strong relationship with the region across a number of years and they have always been incredibly supportive of our series, enabling us to go racing once more on the island.
“The championship is reaching a critical stage, and Sardinia has always delivered on-track, so we look forward to our latest X Prix there in September.”
As a sport for purpose championship with raising awareness of the climate crisis at its heart, the island of Sardinia has been facing multiple challenges throughout the summer as a result of a heatwave across southern Europe. Temperatures in the central Mediterranean have reached record highs, with Sardinia experiencing peaks in mid-July of up to 46 degrees celsius.
The World Meteorological Organisation warned at the time that the heatwave in Europe could continue for a further month, while wildfires, which were so destructive to the Italian island previously, have been prevalent in a number of European countries this year.
Extreme E will confirm its latest legacy initiative in Sardinia in due course, however the series will look to revisit programmes already underway in conjunction with MEDSEA (Mediterranean Sea and Coast) Foundation. This includes its blue and green carbon projects, which focus on wildfire detection alongside partner Vodafone Business, highlighting the importance of seagrass, as well as its newly-launched forest for bees initiative to attract pollinator species – the first of its kind in Sardinia.
Further information regarding Rounds 7 and 8 in Sardinia on 16-17 September will be announced in the coming weeks.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-08-03 Hedda Hosås looks back on a year with JBXE
The recent Island X Prix in Sardinia marked a year since Hedda Hosås made her first appearance for Jenson Button’s JBXE outfit. After making her Extreme E debut at the Season 2 opener in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, deputising for the injured Christine GZ at Veloce Racing, Hosås has been an ever-present in the series, even securing a podium finish in her first full event in the championship in Italy.
Extreme E caught up with the young Norwegian to reflect on her experiences in the series so far, how she has developed as a driver in the past year, and her ambitions for the future.
Extreme E: You have been racing in the series for more than a year now. It seems to have flown by – how would you look back on the last 12 months?
Hedda Hosas: It’s crazy to think that it has been more than a year already. I love the whole concept of Extreme E, with its environmental elements and being able to learn about problems throughout the world where we are travelling, and to do the small things that can help inspire others.
The gender equal format is also so important. It’s a very big opportunity for me to race in the series. It’s been a challenging journey so far, but I have made sure I have done my best at each event.
XE: Could you sum up Extreme E in three words?
HH: Extreme, Intense and quick.
XE: For those not aware of your motorsport background, could you describe your journey to racing in the championship?
HH: My first contact with Veloce Racing was Ian Davies, who was Team Principal at the time. He was looking for up and coming female talent and he went to Denmark to watch me compete in a rallycross race. I was then offered a test in an Extreme E ODYSSEY 21, which I did in France, and that was how the journey started with Veloce Racing. It was definitely a case of being at the right place at the right time.
I was then the series’ Championship Driver at the start of Season 2, and I stepped in at Veloce Racing after Christine GZ broke her foot in Qualifying at the first race in Saudi Arabia. Of course, it is not the way you want it to happen, but sometimes it goes that way. And it was tough!
I was straight into the Crazy Race, so it was very intense. I had a technical problem right at the start, so I didn’t really get the chance to prove anything out on track, but I got my name out there which was great.
XE: Who has been the biggest influence on your motorsport career so far?
HH: Ian Davies has been really important. From the beginning when he saw me in Denmark and then taking care of me even though he wasn’t the Team Principal of Veloce Racing anymore, he helped me out as a friend and he helped my family – which has been incredible.
He’s just a really nice person. On a recent Instagram post, Lance [Woolridge – former driver in Extreme E] described him as a walnut with a marshmallow inside – I liked that one!
XE: You then switched to race for JBXE – although still contracted to Veloce Racing as a reserve driver – for the next round in Sardinia, where you made quite an impact to finish in the top three in your first event for the team. How was that?
HH: A week before the double-header in Sardinia I got the call to drive for JBXE, as Molly [Taylor] was only competing in the first race. Although it was still quite late in the day, it was really good for me as I got to do a race weekend in full, starting with a Free Practice session rather than diving straight into the Crazy Race. It was also great to work with Kevin [Hansen – team-mate at JBXE] who is Swedish and so we understood each other!
It was such a great opportunity for me and we got on the podium, which you wouldn’t think you would get to do first time out. It was such an amazing feeling.
XE: What is it like having Jenson Button as your boss?
HH: I’ve actually not met Jenson yet, but he’s obviously a very talented guy, so to race for him is a huge thing for me. I would not have believed it if I had told myself that a few years ago. He’s a big name and I think it’s good for the series as well to have such a great name. I haven’t got to meet him yet, but I hope so soon.
XE: You have had four team-mates so far in Extreme E – Kevin Hansen, Fraser McConnell, Heikki Kovalainen and Andreas Bakkerud. What have you learnt from them?
HH: I would say I have learnt a lot from all of my team-mates so far. It’s very good to be with different drivers as they work in different ways. They are all different people, so you learn how they like to prepare. Some are more stressed or intense, and some are less so. Some are extremely relaxed – like Fraser [McConnell]! That almost scares me as I’m like ‘why are you not more stressed before a race?’, and Fraser would just respond with ‘don’t worry!’.
They are all really good drivers. Their driving techniques are all different, but they all know how to drive. The main thing is to learn from them, such as how they all prepare for a race and what they do to remember certain things. It’s good to be aware of so many different approaches.
XE: How would you describe your own mindset before a race?
HH: Before a race I would say I am a bit more intense, but not so much in the build-up to a race weekend. I am someone who likes to prepare as much as possible. I’ve also been doing some visualisation techniques before events to help prepare for what’s out on track.
XE: Could you describe your season with JBXE so far?
HH: Competing in our first Grand Final of the season this year last time out was a very good moment. In Saudi Arabia, it was obviously Heikki’s first race, so it was all new to him, and it was the same with Andreas [Bakkerud] in Scotland. We ended the Hydro X Prix on a high note, though, by winning the Redemption Race and in fact it could have been even better as we had suffered some technical issues with the car.
It really worked well in Sardinia for us and hopefully as a team we will continue to improve.
XE: The gender equal format in Extreme E is unique. Do you feel any differently competing against the male drivers out on track, or is it just another competitor to you?
HH: I must say when up against the male drivers I don’t feel the same kind of pressure. I am thinking that given their experiences they should beat me, but I think that will change the more experienced I am in the series. I just want to win out on track, no matter who I am racing, although there is now less of a difference in times between the male and female drivers.
In Sardinia, I was able to have a good battle with Timo [Scheider] out on the course. I could not repass him because I had suffered a puncture, but it felt great to fight wheel-to-wheel and showed me that I can do it in this series. At one stage I was also keeping pace with Mattias [Ekstrom] – who is one of the quickest in the whole championship – and not losing much time. That was a really good feeling.
XE: Over the past year, what has been your favourite race in Extreme E?
HH: The Hydro X Prix was great as the track was really interesting, but I liked Sardinia last time out. It was very good, fast racing, with no crashes, so I would say that was my best in Extreme E so far.
XE: What have been your biggest learnings so far in the series?
HH: The main things I have learnt from Extreme E are the mindsets and techniques of the male drivers given the experiences they have had. There is so much talent across the championship, and there is so much to learn from which can only help my career.
XE: Lastly, what are your aspirations competing in Extreme E and across motorsport?
HH: I would really like to be one of the fastest drivers on the grid and certainly fastest of the girls. I hope I can continue competing in the series and my goal is to stay for as long as possible.
Racing in Extreme E has really helped with my career. I love racing. One day in the future I would love to compete in the Dakar Rally and maybe even become a world champion down the line. I would love to inspire other girls as well in whatever I do in my career.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-08-01 More to come from ABT CUPRA XE after Island X Prix
With Nasser Al-Attiyah unavailable for the Island X Prix double-header, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna, star quality was replaced by star quality at ABT CUPRA XE, as nine-time World Rally champion and Extreme E Season 2 winner Sébastien Loeb deputised for a one-off showing in Sardinia. Despite threatening speed throughout, Loeb and team-mate Klara Andersson were unable to take home the haul of points which matched their pace.
A difficult Free Practice ahead of the race weekend left ABT CUPRA XE with plenty of work to do ahead of the Qualifying heats for Round 5.
The team looked to be in good shape for a spot in the first Grand Final of the weekend, with Loeb and Andersson finishing second in their Q1 Heat behind Rosberg X Racing (RXR). This was confirmed in Q2 where, after initially running second, a slow driver change dropped ABT CUPRA XE down to third, but they had accrued enough points across both Heats to ensure safe passage to the Grand Final.
The team were unable to demonstrate their speed in the Grand Final, though, as Loeb picked up an early puncture which dropped ABT CUPRA XE down the order. Running last for much of the race, a late roll and subsequent retirement for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Catie Munnings ensured fourth place for ABT CUPRA XE after a difficult Grand Final.
Although hopes were high, there was to be no repeat run to the Round 6 Grand Final for Loeb and Andersson.
Despite great on-track action battling against Carl Cox Motorsport throughout, the best ABT CUPRA XE could manage in Q1 H1 was fourth place, leaving them plenty of work to do in Q2.
Despite initially running third, further problems impacted ABT CUPRA XE’s weekend as Andersson picked up a puncture on her run which dropped the team’s ODYSSEY 21 to the back of the field.
Although DNFs for NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team and X44 Vida Carbon Racing elevated the team to third, it was not enough to secure a place in the Final ensuring Loeb and Andersson would compete in the Round 6 Redemption Race.
A strong start from Loeb allowed ABT CUPRA XE to take first place as the Redemption Race got underway, and it was a lead the team would not lose, with team-mate Andersson eventually crossing the line just over two seconds ahead of Veloce Racing to claim a crucial eight points from Round 6.
ABT CUPRA XE will be looking for more positive results with sights now firmly set on the remaining four races of Season 3.
Sébastien Loeb, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “We got to the Final in Round 5 and the start was very tricky. All of the cars wanted to get to the same line and there is only space for one out of the five, so there was quite a bit of contact. We ended up third after the start, but there was a lot of mud on the windscreen and then we had a puncture. We had to make a stop during the race and that was not in the plan.
“It is what it is, though, and we just tried to set some good times after that to finish and we managed to get fourth, just off the podium.”
Klara Andersson, ABT CUPRA XE, added: “It was an up and down weekend. We were on the back foot for both days and that made it really hard to advance to the Grand Finals. The pace, though, was really good as was the car. We suffered a puncture in Q2 for Round 6 on the first run after some contact and that meant we could not make another Grand Final.
“We won the Redemption Race, though, with a really solid performance. Sébastien [Loeb] did a great start off the line and then I took over to bring the car home.
“That was good to show what we can do but, for sure, we feel we deserved more from the weekend.”
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-26 Dramatic podium finish ensures Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E end Island X Prix on a high
Catie Munnings’ late overtake on Amanda Sorensen secured a podium finish for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E in Round 6 after an Island X Prix of highs and lows. Here’s how Munnings and team-mate Timmy Hansen ended the Sardinian double-header strongly ahead of the remaining four races of 2023.
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E were amongst the front-runners in Free Practice for Rounds 5 and 6 at the Island X Prix and looked to build on their podium finish last time out in Scotland.
A Heat victory and a second-place finish in Qualifying secured a comfortable passage to the Round 5 Grand Final, with Munnings and Hansen amongst the favourites to take the race win – which would have been their first in 2023.
A strong start from Hansen, running second behind No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson, meant the team looked set to claim their best result of the season so far.
But disappointment struck for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E. Munnings’ ODYSSEY 21, who had brilliantly held onto second, entered a roll off the back of an overtake by Rosberg X Racing’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinksy on the final lap. Munnings came away from the accident unscathed, but the team were out of the Grand Final and had to settle for fifth in a race which had promised so much.
Catie Munnings, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, said: “We had some great pace throughout qualifying, with a win in the first Heat and a second place in the next Heat in tough conditions on the track. I was obviously very disappointed with our day.
“We had a lot of potential, but with the course very slippery and combined with the low visibility, it resulted in contact. I then ran wide on the right hander and unfortunately just struck a rock which put me into a slow roll.”
Timmy Hansen, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, said: “Unfortunately, our Grand Final race ended too soon. It’s one of those things. The racing is tough out there and we came off worse. We were looking strong though, and we kept our hopes up for Round 6. We showed, I think, plenty of strong performances and some great speed.”
After the tough end to Round 5 for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, the second part of the double-header would yield the results that backed up their speed.
Two second-place finishes in the Qualifying Heats demonstrated the team’s obvious pace and guaranteed another Grand Final spot and another shot at a maiden win of the campaign.
Off the start line, though, it initially looked like all was lost, as Hansen ended up in the bushes as the teams came together entering the narrow part of the course. From the back of the pack there was plenty of work to do, but the Swede had recovered to fourth by the end of his run.
This left Munnings to chase down Sorensen for the final spot on the podium and achieved it in dramatic style, with a late overtake on the last corner of the final lap.
The team’s second top-three finish of the campaign was just rewards following a weekend of ups and downs, with Team Owner Michael Andretti watching on from the garage and able to make his first visit to an Extreme E podium.
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E are now sixth in the standings with 55 points.
On Round 6’s climactic ending, Munnings said: "I was very happy to take P3 as it was a really intense race. Timmy [Hansen] had contact at the start which put him in the bush. So a recovery from P5 to P4 in his first lap and then closing the gap back really made a difference. I managed to pass in the last corner on the last lap which was also very intense. I saw the gap and I went for it. The result was really great.
“I think the team needed that. It was nice to be on the podium with Michael [Andretti] and some of the team owners, so very happy with the weekend and it’s great to know that we have the pace to compete at the front."
Hansen concluded: "We had a very strong weekend in Sardinia. We've had to race super aggressive and make some crazy moves to get to where we finished, but we made it into both Grand Finals. I so nearly had the lead in the Round 6 Final, but I just I got a hit from the right and that just put me into the bushes very hard.
“We came from the back and I managed to pass the JBXE car and handed over the car to Catie [Munnings] in fourth place. She managed to close the gap and make a last corner move on the Ganassi car and get us a podium.
“What a great way to finish our weekend here in Sardinia and although we have been so close to a couple of wins, it's always great to be on the podium."
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-21 Setbacks in Sardinia for Veloce Racing
After leading the Extreme E standings heading into the Island X Prix double-header, Veloce Racing left Sardinia third in the championship after a difficult weekend in Italy. Despite showing pace throughout, misfortune out on track ensured Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor were unable to appear in a Grand Final in either Round. The British outfit, however, is just 14 points off the championship leaders, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, going into the remaining four races of 2023.
After showing good pace in Free Practice, Veloce Racing were up against it immediately in Round 5 Qualifying after suffering a puncture in their initial Heat, ensuring they could only finish fourth. A race-long scrap in their Q2 Heat with X44 Vida Carbon Racing ensued, but third place was not enough which ensured a spot in the Redemption Race.
A victory there, just over a second ahead of NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, secured valuable points for Hansen and Taylor heading into the following day’s racing.
It looked like there would be no stopping the team’s upward momentum after victory in their opening Qualifying Heat of the day in Round 6. However, hopes of a Grand Final appearance in Sardinia were dashed after finishing fifth on course in Heat 2 after incurring damage.
Veloce Racing missed out on the Grand Final thanks to No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing setting a quicker Continental Traction Challenge time, after being equal on points in the Qualifying classification standings.
Veloce Racing finished third on course in the resulting Redemption Race, but were promoted to second after penalties were applied to last year’s champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing. Seventh overall banked more points for the team while, in such a tight fight for the championship, that extra point for a Qualifying Heat victory in Round 6 could prove crucial prior to the remaining two X Prix of 2023.
Kevin Hansen, Veloce Racing, said: “We must regroup and review the weekend, because unfortunately we were unable to get the results that our pace deserved. There is a confident mood in the camp and we’re already looking forward to the next event.”
Molly Taylor, Veloce Racing, said: “We had the speed, and we know we have the team and car to fight at the front, but it didn’t all come together to win this weekend. Nevertheless, we have scored some solid points, the title fight is close, and we will come back stronger at the next one.”
Veloce Racing entered the Island X Prix as the pacesetters, having taken two wins and three podiums in Season 3 prior to Rounds 5 and 6 of the campaign.
Despite not reaching a Grand Final across the weekend, the team remains in touching distance of top spot just 14 points behind new leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team.
Daniel Bailey, CEO of Veloce Racing, said: “It’s about maximising your points haul when things don’t quite go your way, and we did exactly that. But for the puncture we believe we would have competed for honours again in the Grand Final in Round 5, but by winning the Redemption Race we have scored some important points in the overall race for the championship.
“On the second day we were unable to turn our speed into the right results. We have had a very good season so far and won’t let the challenges of this weekend distract us from our overall goals.”
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-20 Another strong Sardinia showing for No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing
No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing maintained their strong 2023 Extreme E Season, bagging a podium and a fourth place in the searing heat of Sardinia. However, the Island X Prix could have yielded even more for RJ Anderson and Amanda Sorensen, with a penalty denying them a first win of the campaign in Round 5, while they also lost out on a second podium at the very last corner of Round 6.
The American outfit have finished in the top five in every race so far in Season 3, making all Grand Finals across the six Rounds. That consistency has kept Anderson and Sorensen within touching distance of the leading trio, sitting fourth in the standings with 80 points and four Qualifying Heat wins across the campaign.
After taking their first podium of the season at the Hydro X Prix, No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing looked set to go even better as they lead the Round 5 Grand Final in pursuit of their maiden win of the campaign.
With last year’s driver pairing of Kyle LeDuc and Sara Price taking the team’s debut victory on the Italian island in 2022, having come so close to top spot the year before, it seemed fitting that Anderson and Sorensen would do likewise.
However, a 15.7-second penalty for a Switch Zone infringement ensured that despite finishing first on the course the team would have to settle for third place overall. Nevertheless, two podium finishes in a row further highlighted the strong, consistent pace of the American outfit this term.
No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing looked destined to replicate that third-place finish in Round 6. However, searing pace from Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E in the Grand Final meant a last lap shootout between the two teams.
It was Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Catie Munnings who came out on top in that battle, snatching P3 on the very last corner to relegate Sorensen and No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing to fourth.
A strong haul of points from the weekend in Sardinia, though, ensures the American team have strengthened their grip on fourth in the standings and are just 29 points off of leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team with two X Prix remaining.
RJ Anderson, No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing, said: "Overall, a fairly good weekend for the team, with a third and a fourth. I think we had more, with the Round 5 mishap, and then being close to the podium in Round 6.
“I think it’s a good building point for the team, we’ve been in all six Grand Finals, and were in the fight. With time it will come. But the starts are so important, and we didn’t get the best one. It was a dogfight here in Italy, when everyone wants the same line, it's five cars going for one spot.
“We’re going to keep our heads up and come back strong in the next event."
Amanda Sorensen, No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing, added: "The weekend was a roller coaster. We learned a lot, the team reacted super well to all the events, and I’m stoked to be part of it because everyone’s role is so important, and everyone is super dialled in. I'm looking forward going to Rounds 7 and 8.
“We’re going for the win, I think that nothing's going to stop us, and we're definitely charging hard.”
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-19 ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team on leading Extreme E standings following Island X Prix
Back-to-back podium finishes at the Island X Prix in Sardinia saw ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team take the Extreme E championship lead with four races to go. With a four-point lead over nearest challengers Rosberg X Racing (RXR) and a 14-point cushion over previous pacesetters, Veloce Racing, we caught up with Mattias Ekström and Laia Sanz on heading the championship with just two X Prix remaining.
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team continued their consistent form in Extreme E Season 3, snatching the advantage in the title race with two second-place finishes on the Italian island.
The Spanish outfit followed home RXR in both rounds of the Island X Prix, with Nico Rosberg’s outfit now their most immediate contenders just four points off the lead.
Such was Ekström and Sanz’s consistency that they usurped two-time Season 3 winners and previous championship leaders Veloce Racing, heading the British team by 14 points.
On topping the standings with four races to go, Carlos Sainz Snr., ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: "Sardinia was a fantastic weekend for the team. Congratulations to everyone for the results and for the lead in the championship. The standings have gotten tighter and the four races that remain will be crucial. Everything is so close, but it is better to tackle them as leaders than being behind. Laia [Sanz] and Mattias [Ekström] had a very good pace. Congratulations to the team for a good performance and let’s keep pushing."
A strong start in Sardinia set the tone. Coming out on top in Q2 Heat 1 and second in Q1 Heat 2, Ekström and Sanz also set the fastest time in the Continental Traction Challenge to reach the top of the Qualifying standings. The team ultimately finished second in the Round 5 Grand Final behind RXR, losing out on the win by just under two seconds, but kept hold of the lead in the Continental Traction Challenge for what could be a crucial two additional points at the end of the campaign.
A win and a third place from their respective Heats in Round 6 ensured ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team another safe passage to the Grand Final in Sardinia, however once again it was RXR who would take the honours and the top step of the podium. Despite the best efforts of Ekström and Sanz, a haul of 40 points across the weekend ensured ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team leapt to the top of the leader board.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: "I think we can be very happy with the weekend we did. We were really consistent. I think we drove very intelligently during the weekend, thinking about the Championship, and in the end, I think it’s a great result."
Mattias Ekstrom, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, added: “We were really fast, Laia [Sanz] did a good job and we finished second twice. We shouldn’t complain in this sport. We are leading the Championship and we can look forward to the last two races."
With the top three teams separated by just 14 points, the final four races of Extreme E Season 3 are not to be missed.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-15 NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team look to move on from challenging weekend in Sardinia
Off the back of a podium finish at the Hydro X Prix, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team were keen to build on their recent upward momentum. But after Tanner Foust and Emma Gilmour endured a difficult weekend at the Island X Prix, attentions now to turn the remainder of the campaign.
After a difficult Free Practice on Friday, where the team was disqualified for weighing in under the minimum allowance, NEOM McLaren Extreme E were up against in Rounds 5 and 6 of Season 3 in Sardinia.
In the first Qualifying Heat of Round 5, Foust enjoyed a fierce battle with No.99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson, but a subsequent puncture as a result of damage to the team’s ODYSSEY 21 dropped them down to fifth place.
A slow start from Gilmour in Heat 2 left NEOM McLaren Extreme E with it all to do and although Foust managed to get ahead of JBXE’s Andreas Bakkerud on his run, fourth in the Heat was not enough to secure a spot in the Grand Final.
An appearance in the Redemption Race ensued, with NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team taking second, and thus seventh overall, after a four-lap battle with Carl Cox Motorsport and X44 Vida Carbon Racing.
On Round 5, Emma Gilmour, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, said: “It was a tough day and we didn't have luck on our side. The car was quick and the team has been working hard on ensuring it is. There were definitely positives in the day, but the results unfortunately don't reflect that. There was good racing from Tanner [Foust] and myself in the Redemption Race as well, and finishing that in P2 was good, but other than that I think we were disappointed with the results."
Tanner Foust, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, added: “We tried every option and I think we made good decisions along the way. However, it wasn’t enough for us to get into the Grand Final.
“In the Redemption Race, we found a little bit of redemption with a second-place finish, which gets us some valuable points, but that’s not where we ultimately want to be.”
Unfortunately for the team, Round 6 in Sardinia would not yield a finish higher up the order – missing out on a spot in the Grand Final by just two points after their Heat scores were added together.
In Qualifying 1, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team secured a credible third place. Foust once again fought hard against fellow countryman Anderson to run third at the driver change. New Zealander Gilmour then took the wheel, and showed excellent race craft to keep a charging Bakkerud at bay in his JBXE ODYSSEY 21 to keep position.
Despite this strong start, a retirement after suffering in Heat 2 ensured a second Redemption Race for NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team in Sardinia – where Foust and Gilmour could only manage fourth and ninth overall from Round 6.
After a hard-fought Island X Prix, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team will look to get their championship back on track in the remaining races of Season 3.
Foust added: “I would say a very long weekend in Sardinia comes to an end. Our only real weakness was our start – and unfortunately for us, on this course, as on a lot of Extreme E tracks, the start is really important for the final result. If you are not able to get out as one of the leading cars, then you find yourself fighting for positions and visibility for the rest of the race.
“Our pace around the track was good. I think we overtook well, which is promising, but almost bittersweet, as we were not able to convert that into good results. We will be focusing on the work needed ahead of the next round.”
Gilmour concluded: “It was a tough day again for us ad a tough weekend overall in Sardinia. We got punished on our starts and it's a very difficult course to fight back on. The first Qualifying race went well, finishing P3 – the second Qualifying race was much poorer. We got damage to the car and then had to retire from the race, finishing P4.
“In the Redemption Race it didn't get much better. A poor start, followed by again damage to the car, left us unable to fight back. A tough day, with few positives for us here in Sardinia – although the team did amazing work, ensuring the car was repaired on multiple occasion, and was in a good window.
“We will have to wait another while till the next event to be able to bounce back. I am confident we will.”
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-13 How RXR returned to form in Sardinia
The Season 1 champions' 2023 campaign had flown slightly under the radar ahead of the Island X Prix. However, two wins on the Italian island launched Nico Rosberg's outfit back into championship contention.
With two victories from three X Prix previously in Sardinia, Rosberg X Racing (RXR) were always likely to be amongst the favourites when the championship returned to Italy.
That they appeared twice on the top step of the podium, in what has been a highly-competitive Season 3 of Extreme E was hugely impressive – becoming the first team to win both races of a double-header since the new sporting format was launched earlier this term.
What’s more, in both Grand Finals, RXR had to come from the back of the five-car field to take both wins.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, RXR, commented: “Wow, what an epic weekend! We had really good pace all weekend, and the team worked so hard to get the car in the perfect shape every time.
“In Round 5, Johan [Kristoffersson] did an amazing job after that start and gave me great information, which meant I had a good run. Teamwork, as usual, made it great. I was just happy to be back on the top step.
“In the Round 6 Grand Final, I thought it would be hard at the start, but Johan just did what Johan does best. When I took over, there was some pressure from Laia [Sanz] behind me, but I tried to keep it tidy and keep the lines.
“It just feels surreal to have two wins in Sardinia! It’s epic!”
RXR finished second on the course in Round 5, but benefitted from No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing receiving a 15.7-second time penalty for a Switch Zone infringement to take the win.
A dominant Round 6 ensued, meaning Nico Rosberg’s outfit claimed a superb 53 points from their latest visit to Sardinia. RXR are just four points off new championship leaders ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, having leapt ahead of previous pacesetters Veloce Racing thanks to their back-to-back successes.
Johan Kristoffersson, RXR, said: “We had a great weekend in Sardinia, which seems to be a proper RXR Island. In Round 5 we managed to take the win from a very tricky grid slot, and then in Round 6, we found ourselves in the same slot again but went for a different tactic, and when I saw a small gap I went for it. For a split second, I regretted it because there was no space, but I managed to get through, and from there, I managed the pace quite well.
"We also had a brilliant switch and managed to open that gap a bit more, and from there on, Mikaela did a fantastic job bringing it home.
“It felt great to take our first victory of the season, but Round 6 was the perfect day in winning all three heats, and the car has been in perfect condition. Big thanks to the team, the mechanics and everyone making this possible. It is great to be back in the fight for the championship.”
The momentum will now be with RXR heading into the final two X Prix of the 2023 campaign, as they look to secure their second Extreme E title.
Nico Rosberg, CEO and Founder of Rosberg X Racing, said: “The level of competition in Extreme E is world-class, and so to win two races this weekend is absolutely epic. During yesterday's final we were last after the start and managed an incredible comeback, and today we were second to last, but the others had a tangle, and we managed to slip through, but it was super challenging.
“Huge driving from Johan and Mikaela means we’re now back in the championship battle. We were hanging on for a while, and now we’re right back in it, which will be really cool for the remaining rounds.”
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-09 Rosberg X Racing secure back-to-back victories at Island X Prix
Rosberg X Racing (RXR) took the win in Round 6 of Extreme E Season 3, marking back-to-back victories at the Island X Prix, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Johan Kristoffersson reached the top step of the podium for the second time this weekend, becoming the first team to do so in the new double-header format.
The haul of championship points sees the team leapfrog Veloce Racing in the standings, with Nico Rosberg’s outfit now sitting just four points off the lead as we pass the halfway point of the season.
Johan Kristoffersson, Rosberg X Racing, said: “We had a great weekend here in Sardinia, which seems to be a proper RXR Island. Yesterday we managed to take the win from a very tricky grid slot, and then today, we found ourselves in the same slot again but went for a different tactic, and when I saw a small gap I went for it. For a split second, I regretted it because there was no space, but I managed to get through, and from there, I managed the pace quite well.
“We also had a brilliant switch and managed to open that gap a bit more, and from there on, Mikaela [Åhlin-Kottulinksy] did a fantastic job bringing it home. Today was the perfect day winning all three of our races, and the car has been in perfect condition. A big thanks to the team, the mechanics and everyone for making this possible. It’s great to be back in the fight for the championship.”
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, Rosberg X Racing, said: “Wow, what an epic weekend! We had really good pace all weekend, and the team worked so hard to get the car in the perfect shape every time. Today, I thought it would be hard at the start, but Johan [Kristoffersson] just did what Johan does best. When I took over, there was some pressure from Laia [Sanz] behind me, but I tried to keep it tidy and keep the lines. It just feels surreal to have two wins in Sardinia! It’s epic!”
Nico Rosberg, CEO and Founder of Rosberg X Racing, said: “The level of competition in Extreme E is world class, and so to win two races this weekend is absolutely epic. During yesterday’s Final we were last after the start and managed an incredible comeback, and today we were second to last but the others had a tangle and we managed to slip through. Huge driving from Johan [Kristoffersson] and Mikaela [Åhlin-Kottulinsky] means we’re now back in the championship battle.”
Runners-up once again were the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, who retain their lead at the top of the championship standings with 109 points having also stood on the second step of the podium in Round 5. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E completed the podium, after a sensational overtake at the death from Catie Munnings saw the team seize third from No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing.
Rounding out the top five were JBXE, with Andreas Bakkerud and Hedda Hosås reaching their first Grand Final of the 2023 campaign.
Winners of the Redemption Race were Klara Andersson and returning champion Sébastien Loeb, gaining a crucial eight points from today’s racing after a challenging double-header for ABT CUPRA XE.
Extreme E returns to action for Rounds 7 and 8 in September (16-17), with the location to be revealed soon.
Grand Final
Continuing their run of quick getaways at the green light, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E looked to have secured the right line for the lead. As the cars came together in the narrow lane, however, Timmy Hansen found himself in the bushes to the left with a lot of work to do from the back of the pack.
Meanwhile RXR’s Kristoffersson, recognising the risk of being squeezed in the middle of the tussling ODYSSEY 21s, dropped back into fourth before surging through the clear space to take the lead in a spectacular strategy.
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Ekström hunted Kristoffersson down from second and was soon right in the Swede’s mirrors. RJ Anderson also closed the gap from third, giving Kristoffersson some breathing space as Ekström went on the defensive against the No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing driver.
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Hansen excecuted his move round the outside of JBXE’s Hosås in quick fashion, allowing him to reel in the front three as the teams headed towards the Switch Zone.
The order remained unchanged after the driver change, with Laia Sanz pushing hard to take the lead from RXR’s Åhlin-Kottulinsky, but the Swede showed her experience and kept a comfortable lead to take RXR’s second victory of the season.
Running in fourth for the majority of her stint, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Catie Munnings continued to slice the seconds off Amanda Sorensen in the No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing car. Fighting until the closing stages, Munnings pulled off the overtake in the final corner to secure third and Andretti Atltawkilat Extreme E’s second podium of the campaign.
Two championship points for achieving the quickest time through the Continental Traction Challenge softens the blow No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, while fifth for JBXE marks a season’s best so far for Jenson Button’s outfit.
Mattias Ekström, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “We drove a solid race, but in the end there was not enough for the win after an action-packed first corner. I thought for a short moment that it would end there, but I managed to get back on the road. Johan managed to pass me, so not much more to say. We were really fast, Laia did a good job and we finished second twice. We shouldn’t complain in this sport. We are leading the Championship and we can look forward to the last two races.”
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “I think we can be very happy with the weekend we did. We were really consistent. The Grand Final was a shame, though, because we had the pace to fight for the win, but there was so much mud on track that the moment you got closer you lost visibility. I think we drove very intelligently during the weekend, thinking about the Championship, and in the end I think it’s a great result.”
Catie Munnings, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, said: “Very happy to take P3 – it was a really dramatic race right down to the wire. It was a really intense battle between myself and Amanda [Sorensen] – I saw so little in the end and I was just praying and putting it all on the line to try and get onto that podium. The team deserves it this weekend. We’ve had really good pace here and we’ve been working a lot to fix the car since yesterday. So I’m very happy overall and Timmy [Hansen] did a great job as always to climb back one of the places too.”
Timmy Hansen, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, said: “I so nearly had the lead in the first corner. I was ahead for a moment after one tap, but the second tap was too hard and put me out in the bushes. I managed to overtake the JBXE car to move up from fifth to fourth, and I handed over to Catie [Munnings] in fourth place. She did an awesome job to catch up to Ganassi and made a last corner move that got us a podium, so I’m super happy.”
Redemption Race
On a mission of damage control, all teams except for Carl Cox Motorsport deployed their ENOWA Hyperdrives off the line to secure that all-important best launch.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust moved over to the right lane to avoid the tussling pack, but the tactic ultimately saw the American slot into fifth as Timo Scheider swept into fourth from the far-left lane for Carl Cox Motorsport.
Sébastien Loeb secured the lead for ABT CUPRA XE ahead of his former team X44 Vida Carbon Racing, with Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen in third.
With all five ODYSSEY 21s tightly bunched together, Foust charged up the inside line to pass Scheider and take fourth for NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team. Fraser McConnell attempted a similarly decisive move for the lead, but the X44 Vida Carbon Racing driver found himself sideways and fighting for control.
The teams entered the Switch Zone in this order, with Carl Cox Motorsport’s Scheider trailiing behind with a puncture. Following the driver change the front two began to pull away, but pushing hard Gutiérrez hit two Waypoint flags on her run and subsequently received a 20-second penalty.
ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson kept a cool head after a hard-fought weekend to take the race win, while the penalties for X44 Vida Carbon Racing dropped them from second on-course to third.
Championship contenders Veloce Racing inherited second and the extra championship points, which could prove crucial if ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team and RXR continue their recent formidable form.
Running in fourth, the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team dropped off the pace in the final stages, while Lia Block completed her stint for Carl Cox Motorsport in fifth, marking important time in the car for the 16-year-old debutant.
Post-race penalties were handed to NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team and Carl Cox Motorsport for causing a collision and using an extra tyre, respectively.
RESULTS
Grand Final
1. Rosberg X Racing 8:54.133
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +2.444s
3. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +7.185s
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +7.759
5. JBXE +13.028
Redemption Race
1. ABT CUPRA XE 08:41.225
2. Veloce Racing +2.031s
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +21.514s (PENALISED)
4. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +51.680s (PENALISED)
5. Carl Cox Motorsport +2:49.863mins (PENALISED)
Championship Standings
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 109 points
2. Rosberg X Racing: 105 points
3. Veloce Racing: 95 points
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 80 points
5. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 59 points
6. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 55 points
7. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 44 points
8. ABT CUPRA XE: 40 points
9. Carl Cox Motorsport: 26 points
10. JBXE: 26 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-09 Imponerande dubbelseger i Extreme E
Det blev en fantastisk helg för Johan Kristoffersson i Extreme E. Tillsammans med teamkompisen Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky tog han en dubbelseger på Sardinien.
- Totalt sett superbra! Många poäng i mästerskapet, summerar Kristoffersson.
Efter den ganska tröga säsongsinledningen för Rosberg X Racing fanns det stora förhoppningar inför helgen. Sardinien har tidigare varit en lyckad arena för Kristoffersson i terrängmästerskapet med elbilar. Och förväntningarna infriades - med råge!
- Riktigt bra! Vi har fattat många rätta beslut och teamet har hållit bilen i perfekt skick. Det är tuffa förhållanden och krävs mycket arbete för att inte råka ut för problem.
Kristoffersson/Åhlin-Kottulinsky gjorde en mycket stabil kvalificering i lördagens race och tog sig till final utan problem. Väl där blev det desto krångligare. Startmannen Johan blev uttryckt in i nålsögat efter starten och hamnade ute i buskarna.
- Då trodde jag det var kört. Det slog i så hårt under så jag var på väg att knäppa upp bältet och kliva ur.
Men den stryktåliga bilen visade sig vara mer än körduglig, även om det såg hopplöst ut på en femte plats och närmare åtta sekunder från täten. Kristoffersson tog dock upp jakten och plockade placeringar. Efter att ha passerat Mattias Ekström precis inför växlingszonen låg RXR trea.
- Det var bara att försöka komma så nära som möjligt och få ner sekunderna. Till sist lyckades jag passera Mattias och det är ju alltid trevligt.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky ville inte vara sämre och satte in en perfekt stöt på Catie Munnings för andraplatsen. RXR var tvåa över mållinjen, men eftersom Chip Ganassi Racing fick en bestraffning gick segern till den svenska duon. Ett konststycke värdigt utbrytarkungen Houdini.
Söndagen blev en uppvisning i samma stil. RXR tog hem båda kvalificeringsheaten efter klockrena starter av Kristoffersson respektive Åhlin-Kottulinsky.
I finalen var det Johan som satt vid startlinjen och såg ut att halka efter vid grönljuset.
- Det var inget bra grepp där jag stod, så jag tappade. Istället för att hänga kvar där ute och hamna på samma ställe som dagen före så släppte jag av och hittade en möjlighet på andra sidan.
På ett mästerligt sätt manövrerade sig värmlänningen upp i täten och gav Mikaela ledningen inför den avslutande sträckan. Laia Sanz såg ut att kunna sätta press, men Åhlin-Kottulinsky behöll kylan och tog bilen i mål till en andra raka seger.
- Säkert kört av Mikaela. Vårt samarbete fungerar allt bättre. Kommunikationen är trots allt lite lättare när man pratar samma språk.
Säsongens två första segrar, men RXR har faktiskt varit i final i samtliga sex tävlingar hittills, en bedrift i sig i ett mycket krävande mästerskap. I sammandraget klev man nu förbi tidigare ledande Veloce Racing och är ny tvåa, endast fyra poäng efter Acciona Sainz.
Nästa tävling går i mitten av september i Sydamerika.
- Vi ser redan fram emot den, avslutar Kristoffersson.
23-07-08 Lia Block on her Extreme E debut
Extreme E: Your first race in Extreme E! How would you sum it up?
Lia Block: “I enjoyed it a lot. Coming in I didn't have a high expectation for myself - a new series, new competitors and a whole new car. The car was very cool and nothing like I've ever driven before. Today was hard, for sure. The Free Practice session yesterday was my only time in the car, so going into today I just had the mindset to try and do the best as possible.
“We ended up getting P3 in Qualifying 1 which was very good, and then in second qualifying we ended up P5 because of my mistake at the start. I got squeezed out at the beginning and downhill there's a lot of dust and I didn't see this kicker - it kicked me right into the bushes. I tried to recover as fast as possible but we didn't make it to the Final, which is okay and I think today was definitely a learning experience for me. Going into the Redemption Race I was just trying to gain as many positions as possible.
“We ended P3, but unfortunately had a penalty coming out of the switch zone so we ended up fourth, so ninth overall. The day went really good for me I think. I learned a lot, I'm really enjoying Extreme E right now.”
Extreme E: What were your main learnings from your first race in the championship?
Lia Block: "I was able to put in some good lap times today, and so it was great to show consistency out on track. Being so young I think I'm not as scared or things like that on track, but I think every single part of motorsport, whether it's rally or off-road or circuit racing, all translates in some way to each other.
“Rally has helped me in karting and circuit racing, and circuit racing has helped me in rally and karting. Everything translates and I think it's just about getting as much experience and seat time in anything I can get. I’m looking forward to the next race.”
Extreme E: You have already raced in so many categories prior to competing in this series. How does it compare
Lia Block: "Extreme E is so different that you can't really compare it to anything, but I think the racing is really fun. The fact that it's a mix between rallycross, rally, circuit racing and even off-road, it's very rough so there's a lot of things to look for, and I think it was really fun from my perspective.
"It was my first time driving a race car that's electric. I have an electric Audi at home that I drive so I understand the power band and how fast you get the torque off the line, but I've never driven electric when racing. It was really cool because you just go through a corner and as soon as you put your foot to the floor the thing just goes - it's so fast, I think it's really cool.”
Extreme E: Racing is evidently in your blood. Is battling it out on track always been something you have wanted to do?
Lia Block: “Growing up around rally and rallycross with my Dad has meant I've just always been around it. When I turned 11 my Dad let me race initially in off-road in the US, and then I went onto karting and so forth. I definitely love it a lot and I wouldn't want to be doing anything else.”
Extreme E: Your debut is definitely a full circle moment for the championship and your family, as your father Ken was the first person to drive the car competitively at the Dakar Rally in 2020. How does it feel to have made your Extreme E debut given your father’s links to the series?
Lia Block: “It was super cool that my Dad was one of the first to drive the ODYSSEY 21 at speed at the Dakar Really. It is amazing that I get to come and drive the same car that he did, and I get to race in the series which he didn't. It is a pretty cool feeling to be here.
Extreme E: Do you see your racing career as almost continuing the family business?
Lia Block: "I think it is an important moment for me, because it's another step in my career, and ultimately more experience. The 'Block legacy' is not only my father’s, but at the same time it's also my career. I wouldn't be doing this if I didn't love it, so I'm truly doing this mostly for myself and for my career. I may not do completely what he did, but I'm going to do whatever I want to do in motorsport and go wherever my career takes me.”
Extreme E: You will be competing in the championship for the rest of the 2023 season. What are your long-term aspirations in motorsport?
Lia Block: I'm a little young and I haven't competed in all of the motorsports - I'm just trying different things, but my dream would be to be a world champion. I'm not sure in what, but some day I would like to see myself on the top step
“I've been doing off-road racing, I've been doing rallying and karting, I've been doing testing in open-wheel cars - I do like it all, so I'd like to do more open-wheel testing in the future and maybe some more racing, to see what I'm good at and then go from there. I'm not sure if I'm going to follow in the footsteps of my father just yet - I certainly don't have too much experience yet to do what my father did in those videos – there were crazy right?!
“But maybe I will have a go in the future, who knows.”
You can find out how Block and team-mate Timo Scheider fare for Carl Cox Motorsport when the Island X Prix concludes tomorrow (9 July) in Sardinia.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-08 Rosberg X Racing take first win of Season 3 in Round 5 at the Island X Prix
Rosberg X Racing (RXR) took the win in Round 5, marking the team’s first victory of Season 3 and a third victory at an Island X Prix, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Johan Kristoffersson reached the top step of the podium, despite the latter finding himself off-track at the start of the Grand Final. Finishing second in the race, RXR inherited the win after on-course winners No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing received a 15.7-second penalty for a Switch Zone infringement.
Johan Kristoffersson, Rosberg X Racing, said: “It feels great to take the win today! I didn’t have the best start in the Grand Final, and with all the teams choosing the same line, it was a tight squeeze. Unfortunately, I hit the bushes and had a huge impact. I came to a complete stop because I didn’t know if there were any stones in the bush, but I made it out, and my tactic after that was to drive as fast as I could, and I managed to pick up the pace.”
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, Rosberg X Racing, said: “Johan [Kristoffersson] did an amazing job after that start, and I got good information from him in the Switch Zone, which meant I had a good run. Teamwork, as usual, made it great. I’m happy to hear that Catie [Munnings] is doing alright after the impact, as that is the most important thing. But happy to be back on the top step of the podium.”
Promoted to second were ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, who find themselves at the top of the championship standings having gained extra championship points for a Heat win in Qualifying and recording the quickest time in the Continental Traction Challenge.
The penalty dropped No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing down to third, marking a second podium of the season for RJ Anderson and Amanda Sorensen. In fourth were ABT CUPRA XE, who suffered a puncture early in the race which Sébastien Loeb and Klara Andersson nursed home for all important points.
Disappointment struck for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, as Catie Munnings’ ODYSSEY 21, running in second-place on the final lap, entered a roll off the back of an overtake by RXR’s Åhlin-Kottulinksy. Munnings came away unscathed, but the team were out of the Grand Final.
Winners of the Redemption Race were Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor, gaining some crucial points to ensure that, despite losing the championship lead, Veloce Racing remain in contention.
Find out where to watch tomorrow’s racing action here as Extreme E heads into Round 6 at the Island X Prix in Sardinia.
Grand Final
The day’s action came to a head in an exciting Grand Final, which saw all five ODYSSEY 21s converge into the left hand lane for the first time on this course. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Anderson emerged in front, ahead of Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Timmy Hansen.
Behind them Sébastien Loeb managed to secure third, ahead of ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Mattias Ekström. Meanwhile, RXR’s Kristofferson found himself off course in the bushes to the left as the cars ran out of room.
Ekström recovered well, hitting the brakes late to secure an overtake on Loeb, who continued to lose pace in his ABT CUPRA XE car due to a puncture. Kristoffersson soon took fourth from Loeb, closing in on the pack and getting ahead of Ekström as they entered the Switch Zone.
The front four were tightly packed as they left the Switch Zone, with Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Munnings running wide as she pushed to defend against Åhlin-Kottulinsky, with the Swede sensing second place for RXR.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky executed the crucial move on the final tour, pushing up the inside of Munnings’ ODYSSEY 21 on a tight left-hander. Following the contact between the two, the Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E car continued to slide wide, eventually entering a roll that would put the team out of contention for the podium and down to fifth.
No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Sorensen held onto the lead, but the team received a 15.7-second penalty for exiting their Switch Zone bay early. This dropped the American outfit into third place, but marks back-to-back podiums for Sorensen and Anderson.
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team finished third on-course, but moved up to second following No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s penalty. This marks a third podium of the season for the Spanish team as they replace Veloce Racing at the top of the championship standings by two points.
ABT CUPRA XE came home in fourth to secure valuable points ahead of Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “We have started the weekend really well. On pure pace today we would have even deserved a race victory. Although, given the grip that we had in the Grand Final, we will settle for second. It seemed like the Final was lost, but we knew how to fight and we are happy because we got something out of the situation. We are happy to take the lead in the championship."
Mattias Ekström, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “We drove two very solid races in Qualifying 1 and Qualifying 2, with no big issues, just enjoying ourselves, and then for the Grand Final we had a difficult starting position. I immediately felt it was better to back off, because we would have been amongst five cars into one lane. I took a conservative line and I was P4 after the first corner.
“In the end, we are leading now by two points, but the championship is only halfway through. We need to continue pushing if we want to stay in the lead.”
Amanda Sorensen, No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, said: “RJ [Anderson] did a phenomenal job from the start to make it through to the front. He passed me a clean windshield and from there we held it down. Unfortunately, we had a penalty coming out of the Switch Zone. We crossed the line in P1 but stood on the podium in P3. Overall, we're making steps in the right direction. Tomorrow is a new day and we're going to go get them.”
RJ Anderson, No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, said: “Back-to-back podiums for the team is great. We've been building and building all season. Not going to lie or hide the fact that it stings to cross the finish line first and receive a penalty. We keep getting better and stronger every round. Tomorrow is a new day. Sweep it under the rug, take this podium finish, and we'll come back out tomorrow and see if we can earn the top step of the box.”
Redemption Race
Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen cut across early on the opening straight to take the lead of the race, with contact for Andreas Bakkerud in the JBXE ODYSSEY 21 as the teams came together in the narrow lane seeking the lead.
Fraser McConnell took the alternate line, slotting into third just behind NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust as the different tracks merged into one. Behind them Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider closed in on the tussling pair, while Bakkerud was unable to rejoin the fight and retired.
Despite the pressure from Scheider, McConnell soon pitched up the inside of the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team car, making contact with Foust and pushing him wide to take second place for X44 Vida Carbon Racing.
The Jamaican lost track position soon after, however, locking up as he missed the entry point for the Switch Zone. X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Cristina Gutiérrez exited the Switch Zone fourth, behind Carl Cox Motorsport’s Lia Block.
A clear run up front saw Molly Taylor cross the line first for Veloce Racing and bag some all important championship points having failed to join their closest rivals in the Grand Final.
Second place went to NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team as Emma Gilmour fought hard to hold off Block on debut for Carl Cox Motorsport, who initially finished third but dropped to fourth following a 15.5-second penalty for a Switch Zone infringement.
Lia Block, Carl Cox Motorsport, said: "I enjoyed it a lot. Coming in I didn't have high expectations for myself - a new series, new competitors and a whole new car. The car was very cool and nothing like I've ever driven before.
“Today was hard, for sure. Free Practice yesterday was my only time in the car, so going into today I just had the mindset to try and do the best as possible. We ended P3 in the Redemption Race but unfortunately had a penalty coming out of the Switch Zone so we moved to fourth. The day went really good for me I think. I'm really enjoying Extreme E right now."
X44 Vida Carbon Racing inherited third in the Redemption Race, with JBXE finishing fifth with a DNF having not made it much further than the start.
RESULTS
Grand Final
1. Rosberg X Racing 09:14.533
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +1.610s
3. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +14.723s (PENALISED)
4. ABT CUPRA XE +2:34.490s
5. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E DNF
Redemption Race
1. Veloce Racing 08:52.483
2. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +1.350s
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +9.874s
4. Carl Cox Motorsport +21.893s (PENALISED)
5. JBXE DNF
Championship Standings
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 90 points
2. Veloce Racing: 88 points
3. Rosberg X Racing: 78 points
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 66 points
5. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 55 points
6. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 42 points
7. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 40 points
8. ABT CUPRA XE: 32 points
9. Carl Cox Motorsport: 25 points
10. JBXE: 16 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-08 ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team top a tightly-fought Qualifying in Round 5 at the Island X Prix
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team finished as top qualifiers in Round 5 of Season 3 at the Island X Prix, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
Coming out on top in Q2 Heat 1 and second in Q1 Heat 2, Laia Sanz and Mattias Ekström also set the fastest time in the Continental Traction Challenge to reach the top of the Qualifying standings.
Joining the Spanish outfit in the Grand Final are Rosberg X Racing (RXR) and Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, with all three teams tied on 18 points after a Heat win and a second place in Qualifying each.
Finishing fourth in Qualifying overall for a spot in the Grand Final are No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, who claimed a Heat win in Qualifying 2 after a comfortable third place in the first Qualifying session. Rounding out the line-up for the Grand Final are ABT CUPRA XE, with second place in Q1 Heat 1 and third in Q2 Heat 2.
The remaining five teams, including current championship leaders Veloce Racing, will fight it out in the Redemption Race to determine sixth to tenth place in the Round 5 standings.
Qualifying 1 Heat 1:
A strong launch from Johan Kristoffersson saw Nico Rosberg’s outfit take an early lead at the start of Heat 1, closely followed by the returning Sébastien Loeb for ABT CUPRA XE and JBXE’s Andreas Bakkerud. Fraser McConnell, who took an alternate route off the start, snatched fourth from Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider.
Scheider was keen to make up ground, but in attempting to pass McConnell caused bodywork damage to the left-hand side of the Jamaican’s ODYSSEY 21, who managed to hold position.
RXR kept the lead following the driver change ahead of ABT CUPRA XE, with Lia Block leaping up to third on an impressive debut run for Carl Cox Motorsport as the front three remained unchanged across the finish line.
Cristina Gutiérrez executed an excellent overtake using her ENOWA Hyperdrive on JBXE’s Hedda Hosås to take fourth for X44 Vida Carbon Racing. Gutiérrez continued her charge, however, in attempting to pass Carl Cox Motorsport’s Block, the Spaniard hit a Waypoint flag and the subsequent 10-second penalty dropped the Season 2 champions down to fifth.
Qualifying 1 Heat 2:
As the five teams concertinaed together off the start it was Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Timmy Hansen who took the lead, closely followed by Ekström in second for the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team and Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen in third.
The top three remained close together, while behind Tanner Foust made a forceful move down the inside of No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson at Waypoint 10 to take fourth.
Punctures for both Veloce Racing and NEOM McLaren Extreme E caused them to drop down the order in the Switch Zone, and they finished the Heat fourth and fifth, respectively, after changing tyres.
As Munnings took over for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E she was able to pull out a significant gap over Sanz for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team to take the Heat win. Behind the leading duo, Amanda Sorensen stayed out of trouble to take third for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing.
Qualifying 2 Heat 1:
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Sanz surged to the front from the middle of the pack, while Veloce Racing’s Taylor took the alternate racing line from the far right of the grid, flying through the clear air to slot into second slightly ahead of RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky.
Carl Cox Motorsport’s Block veered hard off-course to the right as the teams came back together, dropping to the back of the pack behind X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Gutiérrez as the Spaniard closed in on the now third-placed Taylor.
Gutiérrez succeeded in passing Taylor as the teams entered the Switch Zone, but following the driver change Veloce Racing’s Hansen was soon all over the back of McConnell. The Swede managed to force his way through on the inside with an aggressive manoeuvre to take third place ahead of X44 Vida Carbon Racing.
The teams crossed the line in this order, meaning Veloce Racing and X44 Vida Carbon Racing will battle it out in the Redemption Race alongside Carl Cox Motorsport, as the latter crossed the line in fifth.
Up ahead a confident drive from Ekström secured the Heat win for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team ahead of RXR’s Kristoffersson, putting both teams through to the Grand Final.
Qualifying 2 Heat 2:
All teams deployed the ENOWA Hyperdrive as they pushed for the best start off the line, and it was No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Sorensen who took the lead after some wheel-to-wheel tension with Andersson for ABT CUPRA XE.
Off the back of a strong performance in Qualifying 1, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Munnings shut the door on JBXE’s Hosås, who joined the pack from the alternate line to the right. A slow start for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team saw Emma Gilmour running in fifth.
Clean runs from all teams saw the order unchanged heading into the Switch Zone, but a slow driver change for ABT CUPRA XE allowed Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E to jump ahead into second place.
Anderson picked up where his teammate left off, crossing the line comfortably ahead of the pack to take the Heat win for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing. Joining the American team in the Grand Final are Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E and ABT CUPRA XE, after second place for Hansen and third place for Loeb in the Heat.
Foust got the better of Bakkerud on their two-lap stint to take fourth for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, but despite a valiant effort the team will be joining JBXE in the Redemption Race.
With the Redemption Race and the Grand Final still to come, find out where you can watch all the action here.
Q1 Heat 1:
1. Rosberg X Racing 8:41.725mins
2. ABT CUPRA XE +2.321s
3. Carl Cox Motorsport +14.939s
4. JBXE +16.953s
5. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +36.304s (PENALISED)
Q1 Heat 2:
1. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E 8:37.468mins
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +9.305s
3. No.99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing +19.229s
4. Veloce Racing +42.973s
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +1:48.907s
Q2 Heat 1:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team 8:41.327mins
2. Rosberg X Racing +3.440s
3. Veloce Racing +6.134s
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +8.353s
5. Carl Cox Motorsport +17.355s
Q2 Heat 2:
1. No.99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing 8:53.300mins
2. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +6.684s
3. ABT CUPRA XE +8.960s
4. NEOM McLaren Extreme E +12.015s
5. JBXE +21.420s
Qualifying Standings:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 18 points
2. Rosberg X Racing: 18 points
3. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 18 points
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 16 points
5. ABT CUPRA XE: 14 points
6. Veloce Racing: 10 points
7. Carl Cox Motorsport: 8 points
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 6 points
9. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 6 points
10. JBXE: 6 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-07 X44 Vida Carbon Racing top the timesheet in Island X Prix Free Practice
Extreme E returned to action in Sardinia today for its third-double header of Season 3. The championship’s ten teams got to grips with the series’ quickest Sardinian course to-date in Free Practice ahead of the Island X Prix, co-organised by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The 2.9-kilometre course provides a new set of challenges compared to Extreme E’s previous outings in the region. Still situated within the Capo Teulada military training area, in collaboration with the Italian Army, the Island X Prix course boasts plenty of overtaking opportunities and fast, sweeping sections for the ODYSSEY 21s to enjoy.
The 20 drivers got a feel for the exciting new course in Free Practice, competing not wheel-to-wheel with each other but against the elements as strong gusts and high temperatures buffeted the race site.
Fastest in Free Practice 2 were defending champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing with a time of 8:40.835mins. Off the back of victory in Round 3 at the Hydro X Prix, Cristina Gutiérrez and Fraser McConnell continued their strong form to set the quickest time of the day by just under eight seconds, overcoming technical issues that brought McConnell’s car to a stop in Free Practice 1.
Cristina Gutiérrez, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: “Free Practice 2 went very well. We tried different things from Free Practice 1, and we will check with the data to try to improve the things that we can for tomorrow. Overally though, very happy with how today has been.”
After technical issues in FP1, ABT CUPRA XE set the second quickest time of the day in FP2 before being disqualified for weighing in under the minimum allowance. Defending champion Sébastien Loeb secured the quickest lap on his return to the championship, as the Frenchman steps in for Nasser Al-Attiyah for the Island X Prix.
Lia Block was on the pace from the start for Carl Cox Motorsport, as the Extreme E debutant set a time of 8:49.848mins alongside team-mate Timo Scheider to put the team second.
Coming in third were Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E after clean runs from Catie Munnings and Timmy Hansen demonstrated the form that earned the team a podium at the Hydro X Prix. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing finished fourth, maintaining the consistency that has seen them end each event in the Top 5 so far.
Behind fifth-placed JBXE were Veloce Racing. Setting the quickest time in FP1, the championship leaders then experienced issues on Molly Taylor’s stint in FP2 as multiple spins for the Australian pushed the team down the order.
Current championship runners-up ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team also encountered trouble as they chased the quickest time in Free Practice, with the door of the team’s ODYSSEY 21 refusing to close ahead of Mattias Ekström’s stint.
Finding themselves near the back of the pack were Rosberg X Racing (RXR). Nico Rosberg’s outfit looked to hit the ground running having won two out of three Island X Prix, but Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky ran wide on her first lap in FP2 and the subsequent damage brought the RXR ODYSSEY 21 to a halt.
At the bottom of the timing sheet were NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team after disqualifications in both Free Practice sessions for weighing in under the minimum allowance.
Free Practice combined timings:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 08:40.835 (FP2)
2. Carl Cox Motorsport: 08:49.848 (FP2)
3. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 08:49.901 (FP2)
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 08:51.306 (FP2)
5. JBXE: 08:57.653 (FP2)
6. Veloce Racing: 09:03.152 (FP1)
7. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 09:08.749 (FP1)
8. Rosberg X Racing: 09:21.718 (FP1)
9. ABT CUPRA XE: 13:47.655 (FP1)
10. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: DISQUALIFIED
The racing action can be viewed live on ITV in the UK, over both Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 July. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-07 First of its kind Sardinian legacy project gets underway
Extreme E’s latest environmental project in Sardinia got underway yesterday (6 July), centred around the conservation of bees on the island.
The sport for purpose championship makes its third appearance in Sardinia for the Island X Prix this week, co-organised by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
This time, its legacy initiative is focusing on supporting the planting of a half-hectare area with nectar-rich plants, shrubs and trees to create a forest to support bees – the first of its kind in Sardinia.
It is becoming more prevalent that Sardinia and many other environments are increasingly susceptible to rising temperatures, heatwaves, and wildfires. Severe wildfires hit the island in 2021, with the initial blazes impacting more than 20,000 hectares in central Sardinia.
Much of Sardinia’s wildlife is at threat of extinction. In many cases, species are not able to relocate if conditions change dramatically, as was the case with the wildfires in 2021. This is best evidenced by the role of pollinators and how climate change impacts them - 30 million bees were lost in the Sardinia wildfires.
Professor Lucy Woodall from Extreme E’s Scientific Committee said: “The legacy projects of Extreme E have been addressing the consequences of climate change. Now returning to Sardinia for Season 3, we continue to do this, and having our drivers come to these legacy projects is so important for spreading important messages – in this case the direct impacts of climate change and forest fires on pollinators.
“Pollinators globally are on the decrease and our support of the planting of nectar-rich flora we’re giving bees on the island the best chance of surviving to the next generation.”
The all-electric off-road racing series has embarked on this latest project in collaboration once more with the MEDSEA (Mediterranean Sea and Coast) Foundation, whose research aims to protect and provide sustainable management of the marine and coastal resources of Sardinia and the Mediterranean Sea.
Just ahead of Extreme E’s fifth and sixth rounds of the 2023 season, Extreme E drivers and personnel lent a hand to get the Sardinian project underway and learn more about the importance of bees and their preservation.
Amanda Sorensen, No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, said: “It was such a cool experience to see how the bees help our ecosystems. I think they’re super underestimated when it comes to what they do for the environment and the pollenating process.
“We were doing some honey testing, which was interesting because I didn’t realise that there are so many different varieties of honey. We also saw inside the bee hives and learnt about the different roles for bees within the community and saw all the parts that go into the making of honey.”
As well as the launch of the forest for bees, Extreme E’s already established initiatives in Sardinia are ongoing. The championship will be returning to the wildfire sites to learn about the success of the early warning sensors it introduced in the region alongside Vodafone Business last year.
The series will also review its legacy programmes in the region which focus on blue and green carbon stores, such as the restoration of areas hit by wildfires and replenishing seagrass beds of Posidonia oceanica in the waters of the Marine Protected Areas around Sardinia.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, Rosberg X Racing, said: “Last December, RXR joined forces with Extreme E, Allianz, Life Terra, and the MEDSEA Foundation to restore over four hectares of soil, and as the fire season concludes at the end of October, we will be in the position to proceed with the plantation of 4,000 trees across the entire regenerated surface. We are proud to be back in the area to witness the progress made and continue our commitment to environmental sustainability.”
The racing action, and further details about the Legacy Programme in Sardinia, can be viewed on ITV in the UK across the weekend. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-06 Fastest Extreme E Island X Prix course revealed
Ahead of Extreme E’s third visit to Sardinia, Italy, the championship has revealed its exciting new course for the Island X Prix (8-9 July), co-organised by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
As the series returns to the region for Rounds 5 and 6 of Extreme E Season 3, the championship has unveiled a thrilling course that brings a new challenge to the 10 teams and 20 world-class drivers.
The Mediterranean island will present a tough task for both the drivers and the ODYSSEY 21. In the midst of a hot Italian summer, inland from the coastal town of Porto Pino on Sardinia’s southwest coast, the Island X Prix course sits within the Capo Teulada military training area, in collaboration with the Italian Army. There will be plenty to contend with out on course to secure maximum points from the weekend’s racing.
Extreme E caught up with Championship Driver Tamara Molinaro to explain how this year’s 2.9km Island X Prix course is the fastest Sardinian layout yet, and how delighted she is for the series to be returning to her home country.
The Italian said: “Personally, I love it. When we did some exploratory laps of the course I finished my run and got out of the car with a big smile on my face – which says it all really.
“It’s a really fun course and quite different compared to last year. After Waypoint 7 we used to take a tight right hairpin, but now we have a slight right followed by a left over the crest, which is way faster behind the wheel.
“The new part of this course is comparable in some ways to Chile, which had more of a rallycross feel to it which I’m sure a lot of the drivers will like. The first part is probably bumpier – the surface has changed a little since we were here last year, which could be interesting.
“It’s a shorter course to allow two laps for each driver compared to the 7km track last time we were in Sardinia. The fact that the track is much faster and there are two laps will create a lot more opportunities for overtaking.
“We have seen in Extreme E that nearly anywhere is an overtaking spot. I would say there are not specific places to pass here, as I think there will be lots of chances to create a move to overtake, so we’ll just have to see what the drivers and their teams come up with.
“Of course, the heat is a challenge but all the drivers are super fit, and it shouldn’t be a huge issue for them.
“As an Italian we’re super proud to have an event like Extreme E here, and we’re the only location that has been on the calendar for all three seasons. I really like the track, too, so it’s exciting to be back.”
Extreme E has been working closely with Automobile Club d’Italia - the national sports federation co-organising and coordinating the event - the Region of Sardinia, and its Tourism Department plus the Ministry of Defense and the Italian Army to deliver what promises to be a thrilling weekend of racing as the pioneering series gets set for more action-packed wheel-to-wheel racing.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-06 Johan jagar första segern
Efter två månaders uppehåll gör Extreme E sitt tredje nedslag för säsongen på Sardinien.
- En bana vi faktiskt har varit på tidigare och där vi har varit först över mållinjen alla tre gånger, säger Johan Kristoffersson i Rosberg X Racing.
Den tredje säsongen av serien för eldrivna terrängbilar har börjat lite trögt för Kristoffersson och hans teamkamrat Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky. Efter två tredjeplatser i Saudiarabien blev det två femteplatser i Skottland. Totalt ligger RXR-duon på tredje plats med 52 poäng, 28 poäng från ledningen.
- Det har gått lite segt. Vi har inte haft marginalerna med oss hittills, men vi har bara kört fyra tävlingar och det är sex race kvar. Det är inte kört på något vis, säger Kristoffersson och hoppas att säsongens första seger är i annalkande.
Den italienska ön mitt i Medelhavet kan vara platsen att putta säsongen i rätt riktning. Där vann Kristoffersson och Molly Taylor under den mästerskapsvinnande säsongen 2021. Förra året var Kristoffersson/Åhlin-Kottulinsky också snabbast i de två race som kördes då. En av segrarna fick de behålla, men den andra slutade med en tredjeplats efter att Johan hade bestraffats för en närkamp med Carlos Sainz. Alltså en bana där han trivs, liksom teamkompisen gör.
- Mikaela var supersnabb senast vi var där. Det är ett ganska hårt underlag och går lite fortare än på de flesta andra banor vi kör.
Lite mer som rallycross, där såväl Åhlin-Kottulinsky som Kristoffersson kommer med färsk erfarenhet från Höljes. Gott självförtroende kan Johan ta med sig efter uppvisningen i VM-tävlingen, också det med en elbil.
- Jo, det förstås, men det är ganska stor skillnad på bil som vi ska köra den här gången.
De vädermässiga förutsättningarna lär också bli radikalt annorlunda. I Höljes var det “Johan-väder”, blött och halkigt. Precis som i Skottland när Extreme E körde sin andra tävlingshelg. Problemet där var den dåliga sikten, så dålig att Kristoffersson råkade ut för sin första rullning i karriären när all sikt framåt försvann.
- Vi hade problem med torkarna där. Det hoppas vi slippa nu, men å andra sidan blir det väl 35 grader och sol också.
Upplagt för att dammet ska kunna bli en utmaning istället.
- Vi får i alla fall hoppas att startpositionen inte får lika stor betydelse som tidigare. Starterna är viktiga och det har varit svårt att ta sig fram från yttersidan.
Tävlingen går i samma område som de två tidigare åren, men med en förändrad bansträckning.
- Början är den samma, men sedan bryter vi av och kör två varv istället. Det är svårt att ha en färdig plan förrän vi har fått gå track walk och sett hur det ser ut. Men som vanligt gäller att inte göra några misstag.
Precis som alla andra tävlingshelger den här säsongen körs Island X Prix som en dubbeltävling, en på lördag och en på söndag.
23-07-04 Less than a week to go until Extreme E returns for Sardinia spectacular
Extreme E returns to the scorching heat of Sardinia next weekend for Rounds 5 and 6 of the 2023 season.
The Island X Prix (8-9 July), co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna, will mark the championship’s return to the Italian island for a third successive year – with the event shaping up to be the most thrilling yet.
The electric off-road racing series will be returning to the familiar setting of the Italian Army Training area at Capo Teulada in Sulcis-Iglesiente. The Teulada route provides a challenging backdrop for the course, with some changes to this year’s configuration netting out at a track distance of around three kilometres.
Extreme E has been working closely with Automobile Club d’Italia – the national sports federation co-organising and coordinating the event - the Region of Sardinia, and its Tourism Department plus the Ministry of Defense and the Italian Army, to deliver what promises to be a thrilling weekend of racing action.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO at Extreme E, said: “We are really looking forward to the upcoming Island X Prix.
“It has been so tough to call out on track so far this season and so the racing in Sardinia could be the closest fought yet.
“We are also extremely proud to launch our latest legacy initiative in the region, which is the first of its kind in Sardinia, which only reinforces our commitment to sustainable solutions in the areas in which we race.”
On track
Veloce Racing currently leads the Extreme E Season 3 standings after two victories in 2023., ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team are a close second with 69 points – 11 off the lead – while Season 1 Champions Rosberg X Racing (RXR) sit third. Last year’s winners, Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing, are fourth in the standings.
With three different teams winning a race this term from four rounds, Season 3 has proved to be the most wide open campaign yet. What’s more, there will be some new and familiar faces on the grid for the Island X Prix – which makes the fight for victory in Sardinia even more unpredictable.
Nine-time World Rally Champion, and Extreme E Season 2 winner, Sébastien Loeb will compete in the Island X Prix for ABT CUPRA XE, deputising for Nasser Al Attiyah. No stranger to success, Loeb will be looking to build on his two X Prix wins and six podiums in the series to date alongside Klara Andersson.
There is also a driver change at Carl Cox Motorsport. Lia Block will make her Extreme E debut at Carl Cox Motorsport replacing Christine GZ for the rest of the season. The teenage sensation has shown plenty of potential in her off-road racing career to date and will get behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21 for the first time alongside Carl Cox Motorsport team-mate Timo Scheider.
Block’s debut race is undoubtedly a full circle moment for her family and the series as her father, the legendary Ken Block, who sadly passed away earlier this year, was involved in the early developments of Extreme E and was the first driver to race the ODYSSEY 21 in competitive motorsports at the Dakar Rally in January 2020.
How Loeb and Block fare will be exciting to watch out on course in Sardinia, an event which has proven to be more successful for one team above any other – RXR. Nico Rosberg’s outfit have won two of the previous three races held on the Italian island and will be going all out to take their first win of 2023.
Enno Straten, Head of Strategy & Marketing, Continental Tyres EMEA, said: “We are really excited for the upcoming Island X Prix double-header and are looking forward to once again proving the outstanding performance of our tyres under the toughest and most challenging conditions.”
Legacy
Continuing to work alongside the MEDSEA (Mediterranean Sea and Coast) Foundation, the series will build upon its existing legacy projects in the region.
The series will be replanting a half-hectare area with nectar-rich plants, shrubs and trees to create a forest to support bees – the first of its kind in Sardinia – ahead of the upcoming Island X Prix, co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna.
The pioneering championship will collaborate once more with the MEDSEA Foundation, whose research aims to protect and provide sustainable management of the marine and coastal resources of Sardinia and the Mediterranean Sea, to deliver this latest joint initiative in the region.
The creation of a dedicated forest for this under-threat species will help to rejuvenate the role of pollinators in the area and combat the devastating effects of climate change in the region.
As well as the launch of the forest for bees, Extreme E will be revisiting its already established initiatives in Sardinia.
The series will return to the wildfire sites to learn about the success of the early warning sensors it introduced in the region alongside Vodafone Business last year.
The championship will also review its legacy programmes in the region which focused on blue and green carbon stores, such as the restoration of areas hit by wildfires and replenishing seagrass beds of Posidonia oceanica in the waters of the Marine Protected Areas around Sardinia.
Alessio Satta, Founder and President of MEDSEA, said: “Among all pollinators, bees play a key role in maintaining the natural balance and ensuring food security. Bees pollinate one-third of global crops and are responsible for approximately 75% of the pollination of all plant species on the planet.
“Without them, one-third of the food we normally find in the market would no longer be available.”
With just under a week to go until back-to-back rounds in Sardinia on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 July, the stage is set for more gripping racing in Extreme E Season 3 as the championship heads to the Italian island.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-07-04 Patrick O'Donovan joins Extreme E as male championship driver
Rising rallycross star Patrick O’Donovan has joined Extreme E as the series’ male Championship Driver for the Island X Prix in Sardinia.
O’Donovan, 19 from London, UK, is the reigning British Rallycross Champion and an FIA RX2e race-winner, and will partner Tamara Molinaro for Rounds 5 and 6 in Italy where the British driver will get behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21 for the first time.
On becoming a Championship Driver for Extreme E in Sardinia, O’Donovan said: “It’s exciting to get the call up from Extreme E to be Championship Driver. It’s going to be something completely new to me, but I’ve seen how great the racing can be and I can’t wait to get in the car.
“The course in Sardinia will be a kind of terrain I haven’t experienced before, but that’s why I’m here – to learn and to give feedback where I can. I’m also looking forward to working with Tamara [Molinaro]. She has a lot of experience in Extreme E, and I know she’ll be a huge help as I get to grips with the car and push myself to the limit in this new discipline. It’s going to be awesome.”
After finishing fourth in the RX2e series in 2021 O’Donovan repeated that feat last term, securing wins in the championship for all-electric cars in Latvia and Belgium.
O’Donovan became the youngest-ever British Rallycross title-winner last year, aged just 18-years-old, winning the championship with a 50-point margin, and is currently leading the standings in 2023 after winning the opening two rounds.
The British rising star was also a victor out on course last weekend, securing his first-ever Euro RX1 victory in Holjes, Sweden.
Some of the Extreme E stars will not be unfamiliar to him, as O’Donovan has signed with Timmy and Kevin Hansen’s #YellowSquad junior rallycross outfit – which Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Catie Munnings will also race for in 2023.
O’Donovan was recognised as Motorsport UK’s Academy Young Driver of the Year in 2021.
James Taylor, Chief Championship Officer at Extreme E, said: “It is great to welcome Patrick into the paddock for the upcoming Island X Prix in Sardinia.
“Patrick is an extremely talented young driver, with plenty of pedigree from his wheel-to-wheel racing exploits already, and we look forward to seeing him behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21 as a Championship Driver alongside Tamara at the next round.”
Rounds 5 and 6 of Extreme E Season 3 will take place on 8-9 July. The racing action can be viewed on ITV in the UK across the weekend. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-06-08 One Month to Go until Extreme E returns to Sardinia
In just four weeks, Extreme E will head to Sardinia for the next double-header event of the 2023 season. The Island X Prix (8-9 July), co-organised and coordinated by the Automobile Club d'Italia and Regione Sardegna, will mark the championship’s return to the Italian island for a third successive year.
The electric off-road racing series will be returning to the familiar setting of the Italian Army Training area at Capo Teulada in Sulcis-Iglesiente. The Teulada route provides a challenging backdrop for the course, with some changes to this year’s configuration netting out at a track distance of around three kilometres.
Due to the hot summer conditions in July, the drivers will navigate a tougher, more compact surface compared to the Season 3 race locations so far. Riddled with rocks, bushes, and dry riverbeds cracked from the heat, the Sardinia course promises exciting wheel-to-wheel action across the two days of racing.
The series was created to raise awareness about the effects of climate change and sustainable solutions in the most remote corners of the planet. However, Sardinia has shown that the problem does not only concern places located at the most extreme latitudes.<
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “It is great to be returning to Sardinia for Rounds 5 and 6 of Season 3.
“Sardinia has proved to be a popular venue with drivers and teams in the past and has provided fantastic racing in our previous two events there. We are expecting more of the same in July, and with such a competitive grid in 2023 as the championship hots up, we look forward to a really special event.
“Our Legacy initiatives remain ongoing, while we hope to announce some new projects prior to this Island X Prix, and we are excited to see how they have developed alongside our supporting partners.”
Extreme E has been working closely with Automobile Club d’Italia – the national sports federation co-organising and coordinating the event - the Region of Sardinia, and its Tourism Department plus the Ministry of Defense and the Italian Army, to deliver what promises to be a thrilling weekend of racing action.
Angelo Sticchi Damiani, President of the Automobile Club d'Italia, said: "We are very pleased that this now-traditional appointment with Extreme E continues at Capo Teulada, where Extreme E is practised using technically sophisticated cars powered by electric innovation in a beautiful mix of extraordinary and wild nature.
“Motorsport is always a test bench for manufacturers, it subjects cars and innovations to very demanding tests that will later be used in series productions, and it is important that in Sardinia, there is this combination of sport, nature and technological innovation, especially when it comes to zero-emission engines.
“A particular pride comes from having created, together with the Automobile Club d'Italia, Aci Sassari and its president Giulio Pes di San Vittorio, the conditions for Extreme E to bring one of the five stages of the series to Sardinia, thanks to the support of the Regional Council, the President Christian Solinas and the Regional Assessor for Tourism, Gianni Chessa. My thanks also go to the Esercito Italiano (Italian Army), which has always shown great vision and made the Capo Teulada Training Area available, with a good understanding of the environmental and technological development reasons for this. I am particularly grateful for this response."
It is becoming more prevalent that Sardinia and many other environments are increasingly susceptible to rising temperatures, heatwaves, and wildfires.
Continuing to work alongside the MEDSEA (Mediterranean Sea and Coast) Foundation, the series will build upon its existing Legacy projects in the region. Further detail around how Extreme E will highlight climate change issues and support the local community are to be revealed soon.
Nico Rosberg’s Rosberg X Racing (RXR) are the most successful team when it comes to the Island X Prix, with two victories from three races on the Italian island since the series launched in 2021.
Sardinia has also proven to be a special event for No.99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing, with the American outfit picking up their maiden championship win there last year.
Veloce Racing currently leads the Extreme E Season 3 standings after two victories in 2023., ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team are a close second with 69 points – 11 off the lead – while Season 1 Champions RXR sit third. Last year’s winners, Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing, are fourth in the standings.
With three different winners across just four rounds, the double-header format means more points up for grabs and more opportunities awaiting the 10 world-class teams in Rounds 5 and 6 of Season 3 in Sardinia. The countdown is on!
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-06-05 Mark Grain appointed as Extreme E Technical Director
Extreme E, the ground-breaking electric off-road racing championship, is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Grain in the newly-created role of Technical Director.
With his extensive experience in the motorsport industry, including almost three decades across multiple racing disciplines at McLaren, Grain brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the series.
Grain has enjoyed an impressive motorsport journey with plenty of winning pedigree, particularly at McLaren, with notable successes including a Formula One title, victory at the Le Mans 24 hours and IndyCar race wins – where he held numerous technical and operational roles. Most recently as Sporting Director, Grain oversaw the creation of the NEOM McLaren Extreme E team and led the team in its first season of racing in 2022.
Moreover, Grain’s arrival coincides with the upcoming launch of Extreme H as plans for the world’s first hydrogen motorsport championship gather pace.
Grain's appointment as Technical Director further reinforces Extreme E's commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation and performance, and demonstrates the series’ ambitious plans for future development.
Utilising his extensive experience in both Formula One and endurance racing, Mark will play a pivotal role in shaping the technical direction of the championship and ensuring the teams' compliance with regulations.
Known for its pioneering spirit, Extreme E has revolutionised the motorsport world by bringing exciting electric racing action to some of the most challenging and remote corners of the planet. By racing in environmentally sensitive areas, the series aims to raise awareness about climate change while promoting the adoption of clean energy solutions.
Reflecting on his new role as Technical Director at Extreme E, Mark said: “Having experienced Extreme E first hand as a competitor and loved every minute, when the chance came to join the Championship, I jumped at it.
“Extreme E continues to evolve and break new ground in motorsport, having already established many 'firsts’ which make its appeal so unique. The opportunity to play a part in its future is incredibly exciting, especially with the introduction of hydrogen fuel cell racing.
“We don't want to sit back; we want to continue to push and evolve. Extreme E already has a track record of challenging common assumptions and ways of going racing, and I share the strong ambition to maintain that momentum.”
Alejandro Agag, CEO of Extreme E, added: "We are thrilled to welcome Mark to Extreme E as our new Technical Director. His relentless pursuit of excellence has earned him a stellar reputation in the industry and this, combined with his unrivalled expertise and passion for sustainable motorsport, make him the ideal candidate for this new role.
“We believe his expertise will be invaluable in shaping the technical future of Extreme E and driving innovation within the championship, while there will also be significant focus on preparations to launch Extreme H, a world-first hydrogen motorsport series.”
James Taylor, Chief Championship Officer at Extreme E, said: “We look forward to Mark bringing his expertise and experience into this new role. The fact that Mark has run McLaren’s Extreme E team is a major benefit for us, as he appreciates both the technical and sporting demands of a team and the Championship. Extreme E has always pushed the boundaries since its inception, and Mark’s appointment as Technical Director only further reinforces that.
“Although already into our third season, there is a lot more potential to be unearthed in our series and so Mark’s arrival into the Extreme E team is an important one. Mark will work closely with our experts from Spark Racing Technology and our fuel cell partner to ensure that the Extreme H car and associated technology provides our teams with the best possible car to race.”
Grain will take up his new role as Extreme E Technical Director immediately, with his first championship event, the Island X Prix in Sardinia, set to take place on 8-9 July.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-25 Five new candidates join Extreme E through Racing for All initiative
Half of the Extreme E grid now has a Racing for All candidate as part of its operations in the series, emphasising the growing importance of the initiative in the championship. We caught up with Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Lanna Campbell on her experiences working at home event, as well as how the programme is developing in 2023.
Following the launch of the initiative in 2022, half of the Extreme E grid now has a Racing for All candidate as part of their racing team.
Informed by the findings of The Hamilton Commission, Racing for All is creating opportunities for a new generation of mechanical and engineering talent to join the world’s most radical off-road electric racing series. The programme aims to reduce barriers and attract those who might not otherwise be able to have this opportunity, and encourage particularly those who are female, minority ethnic, or from a lower socio-economic background to apply.
The Racing for All recruits, Lanna Campbell (Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E), Amanda Kangai (Veloce Racing), Daanish Chilwan (No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing), Calvin Langat (X44 Vida Carbon Racing) and Aisling Power (NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team) got to experience the inner workings of an Extreme E outfit at the Hydro X Prix, with tasks ranging from recording data from runs out on course, to car and bodywork repairs.
For Lanna Campbell, who lives on the Isle of Arran in Scotland, working at her home event was a particular highlight.
As part of the Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E squad, Lanna initially shadowed all aspects of the race team. After a day of shadowing, Lanna was able to help out with car and bodywork repairs as well as supporting the mechanics as and when needed for various duties across the race weekend.
Lanna said: “It was an amazing opportunity to work with Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E. My old schoolteacher found out about Racing for All online and sent it to me, and I knew I had to take the opportunity.
“I’ve been shadowing all the team members to watch and understand their jobs, and I also got the opportunity to get stuck in and help the mechanics with some car repairs and do some car vinyl. I’ve really been loving it – I’m having the time of my life! The experience has really made me want to work in motorsports now.
“The only thing that shocked me is how busy and fast-paced it can get between the track action. Obviously, when you watch motorsport, the TV doesn’t show you that side. But even understanding that has been great. Every day is a learning day as they say!”
Moreover, EqualEngineers were at the Glenmuckloch venue to deliver engagement sessions supporting the series’ Racing for All candidates, improving their practical and communications skills.
Extreme E has also worked closely with EqualEngineers throughout the development of this initiative, whose Pathways Programme is supporting engineering students from diverse backgrounds to secure graduate employment in engineering.
What’s more, EqualEngineers has launched an Edinburgh & South East Scotland Pathways Programme, with the objective to reduce the inequalities within the region and mentoring the engineers of the future.
Mark McBride-Wright, Founder and CEO, said: “We had a brilliant time attending our first Extreme E event, in my sunny homeland of Scotland! I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the teams around the paddock and seeing all the engineering which goes into the race.
“We ran a brilliant professional skills and media training session with the Racing For All candidates, and I plan to keep connected for seeing what opportunities we can support through EqualEngineers longer term.”
Stay tuned for more insights from Extreme E’s Racing for All candidates and the invaluable experience they have received as a result of the initiative and working across the championship.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-24 Podium wait is over for NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team in 2023
After a promising debut campaign in Extreme E, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team had been searching for a strong result to kickstart their Season 3 ambitions. A podium in Round 4 at the Hydro X Prix was certainly a shot in the arm for Tanner Foust and Emma Gilmour, as the team look to climb the Extreme E leaderboard in 2023.
After an introduction to the Glenmuckloch course in Free Practice, there was drama right from the off in Qualifying in Round 3 for NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team.
The cancellation of Qualifying 1 meant the pressure was on for all 10 teams in Qualifying 2. The red flag was immediately brought out in Q2 Heat 2 with Foust narrowly avoiding a collision between ABT Cupra XE and Carl Cox Motorsport ahead. The American, who made contact with Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor amidst the frenetic start, lined up for the three-car restart and set off third in hot pursuit of Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider ahead.
Foust set up teammate Gilmour as best as he could, as the other drivers took over for the final two laps of the Heat. However, in their push to make up time, the team received a five-second penalty for being too far out of their bay in the Switch Zone.
Despite a valiant drive from Gilmour, which saw her pass Christine GZ on the uphill Continental Traction Challenge sector, the New Zealander was unable to build enough of a lead to retain second after the penalty was applied, which meant third in the Heat and a place in the Redemption Race.
Third, and eighth overall, was the best NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team could do as attentions turned to Round 4 and the second part of the Hydro X Prix.
Reflecting on the first race in Scotland, Foust said: "It was a difficult day for us, we had pace in the car and the resources from the team were working. Ultimately, a clot of mud clogging the windscreen wiper ended up making our Qualifying very challenging. Emma did a great job of seeing through the mud and making a pass. Unfortunately, we got a Switch Zone infringement, which put us in the Redemption Race and we finished eighth overall.
It was a case of what might have been for the team, as Emma Gilmour concluded: “It was a disappointing end to our first race here in Scotland. We should’ve been in the Grand Final. However, I enjoyed the race, it was fun and challenging, with the dusty conditions. We also had a wiper issue in our qualifying session which made our race difficult.”
The tables were turned in Round 4, as a change in the weather also yielded a change in fortune for NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team.
Qualifying 1 Heat 2 saw the team secure bank valuable points ahead of the session, with Foust making an assertive pass on Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen to take second behind ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team.
In another disrupted Qualifying 2 due to incidents, which also saw Gilmour slide off into the hay bales and spinning as she tried to maintain position, the restart after the red flag saw the New Zealander dart into the lead.
The positions were maintained into the Switch Zone, with No.99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing in hot pursuit. Despite crossing the line in first, a 30-second penalty for speeding in the Slow Zone on Gilmour’s lap put the team down to second, and into their first Grand Final of the campaign.
Buoyed by their strong Qualifying, the team’s upward momentum continued into the Grand Final. After exiting the first turn in second behind Veloce Racing, Foust shadowed the leader Hansen throughout his two-lap run – all the more remarkable given the visibility levels from his ODYSSEY 21 as the weather deteriorated.
Gilmour kept up the fight for victory in her two-lap stint as she pressured Taylor in front, but NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team were made to settle for second place, securing a crucial podium on home soil and valuable points for their Season 3 challenge.
Gilmour said: “It was fantastic to bounce back from the disappointment of yesterday and get our first podium of the year! We had two strong qualifying heats, which meant we got into the Grand Final.
Buoyed by their strong Qualifying, the team’s upward momentum continued into the Grand Final. After exiting the first turn in second behind Veloce Racing, Foust shadowed the leader Hansen throughout his two-lap run – all the more remarkable given the visibility levels from his ODYSSEY 21 as the weather deteriorated.
Gilmour kept up the fight for victory in her two-lap stint as she pressured Taylor in front, but NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team were made to settle for second place, securing a crucial podium on home soil and valuable points for their Season 3 challenge.
Gilmour said: “It was fantastic to bounce back from the disappointment of yesterday and get our first podium of the year! We had two strong qualifying heats, which meant we got into the Grand Final. Conditions were really tricky which made it a big challenge as you didn’t want to make a mistake. We performed really strongly and I’m so happy to come away with a podium finish.”
Looking back on a weekend which ended with their best result of the season, Foust concluded: “A podium at Round 4 is exactly what we needed at the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team. The first two rounds of the year were a bit difficult, and the course in Scotland was one of the most challenging the series has ever had. After Round 4, to walk away with some silverware and good results and points is a great result for the team.
“The team put in a huge amount of work and it was an insane course. Emma [Gilmour] did a great job and carried good speed – I managed to make a pass in the Grand Final and with Emma holding that position, we came home in second place. It was an awesome result for the team.”
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team will be keen to back their podium finish in Scotland up when the series heads to the searing heat of Sardinia for Rounds 5 and 6 of Season 3 in July.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-23 How Veloce Racing extended their championship lead
After showing strong initial pace in Free Practice, Veloce Racing had a difficult opening round at the Hydro X Prix and lost their top spot in the Extreme E standings. However, the British squad came back strong come the second race in Scotland taking a home victory, their second of the Season 3, to reclaim their place at the head of the pack with an 11-point gap.
Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor were quickest out of the blocks in Free Practice, confirming their Extreme E Season 3 pace after a phenomenal opening round in NEOM.
However, a combination of bad luck and mechanical issues ensured the team would only manage to make the Redemption Race.
Following the cancellation of Saturday’s Qualifying 1 due to as the medical helicopter was unable to fly due to adverse weather, the stakes were even higher in Qualifying 2 to reach the Grand Final. Although Veloce Racing’s Taylor got a good start, the Aussie ace made contact with NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust while trying to avoid a collision between ABT CUPRA XE and Carl Cox Motorsport ahead, and the resultant damage forced the team into retirement.
Veloce Racing managed to bank crucial points in the Redemption Race, finishing second behind ACCIONA | SAINZ XE TEAM and thus seventh overall, but in doing so surrendered the championship lead to the Spanish outfit as attentions turned to Round 4.
Reflect on Round 3, Molly Taylor said: “It felt like a case of what might have been for us. It’s always frustrating when you are quick in Practice and you know that you have a fast package. We knew with our starting draw and only one qualifying session, it was going to be a challenge. Everyone in the team did a great job and we bounced back well in the Redemption Race.
Kevin Hansen’s view of Round 3 was fairly similar, adding: “The incident in Qualifying 2 is just one of those things in racing, but it obviously impacted our day. We regrouped and went well in the Redemption Race. There was a small chance for the lead, but Molly did great and bringing the car home in second is positive points.”
At first, the second race at the Hydro X Prix appeared to be following a similar pattern.
Despite a strong start from Hansen in Qualifying 1 Heat 2 with the Swede settling into second, a bent driveshaft meant he was powerless to hold off NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Foust, while in her run Taylor nursed the car home to finish third.
That left the team with plenty to do in Qualifying 2, but a dominant display from the British outfit, after avoiding a first-corner crash between RXR, X44 and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, saw Taylor and Hansen take the Heat 2 victory and secure a Grand Final spot.
It was evident that the team’s confidence had returned, and a flying start from Hansen in the Grand Final put the team into the lead at the first turn. It was a lead that they would not lose as the Swede, and then team-mate Taylor, held off NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team for their second win of the season.
Not only that, but having left NEOM heading the standings albeit tied level with ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, Veloce Racing departed Scotland with an 11-point cushion ahead of the Spanish outfit.
Reflecting on a topsy-turvy Hydro X Prix that ended with victory, Hansen said: "The start was pretty perfect, and we were able to execute a fantastic race. I tried to keep the gap before handing over to Molly [Taylor], and she did an amazing job to bring the car home in P1.
“The team has done such an incredible job. We knew we were fast after practice on Friday, but things didn’t quite go our way in the first race. It's great to get the victory in front of our amazing partners at our team's home race."
Taylor summed up the weekend: “What a feeling! We have experienced the highs and lows of an Extreme E weekend, but you really get to see the strength of a team when they respond to the challenges that we faced yesterday.
“There is such a good feeling in this team and Kevin drove brilliantly too, so I couldn’t be happier. It’s great to be leading the standings but there’s a long way to go and now we will focus on Sardinia.”
Attentions now turn to Rounds 5 and 6 in Sardinia in July, where Veloce Racing will look to maintain their position at the head of the Extreme E standings.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-22 How Extreme E delivered off track in Scotland
The Hydro X Prix in Dumfries and Galloway marked a number of successes on course at the former opencast coal mine at Glenmuckloch. There were also multiple initiatives taking place off-track as Extreme E made its return to the UK. Here’s a recap of everything which caught the eye away from the racing action in Scotland.
Legacy Programme
Extreme E’s environmental Legacy Programme in Scotland was a multi-stage project centred around the restoration of the River Nith to ensure the preservation of Atlantic salmon.
On Thursday 11 May, just ahead of Extreme E’s second double-header of the season, Extreme E drivers and personnel lent a hand to start the planting process and learn how the sensors can affect positive change.
Partnering with the Nith District Salmon Fishery Board, the aim is to reverse the impact of climate change through community engagement, education, and the application of science. This includes sensors provided by Vodafone Business, the series’ Official Technology Partner, which will monitor temperatures, acidity levels and pollution levels in the water, as well as planting over a thousand native trees to protect the eroding banks of the river.
Tanner Foust, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, said: “I love doing the legacy projects. It means we’re able to futureproof motorsport and show that it can be done in a responsible way.
“As a biology major in college, I find it particularly fascinating to learn about each individual region. I went to elementary school not far from here, about three hours further north, and I never would have known that there was an issue with salmon and with the warming of the rivers in Scotland. That goes to show how important the work we’re doing to highlight these problems is.”
FIA Girls on Track
Extreme E, Motorsport UK and FIA initiative Girls on Track joined forces on 10-11 May ahead of the Hydro X Prix race weekend, to introduce 80 lucky schoolgirls to life behind the scenes of the championship – as well as show them the many future career opportunities available to them in the world of motorsport.
The girls – all aged between 10 and 12 years old from local schools in the Dumfries and Galloway area, including Sanquhar Primary School, Kelloholm, Dairy Primary and Wallace Academy – took part in an eye-opening menu of activities including a STEM coding challenge courtesy of E-novation Consulting, as well as a lesson in vital resuscitation skills by professional motorsport Doctor Clare Morden.
Extreme E’s female drivers and team personnel also spent time with the students to share their experiences of how they became involved in motorsport and what it’s really like to work and race in this pioneering championship.
In addition, the schoolgirls were able to witness F1 Academy driver and FIA Girls on Track ambassador Chloe Grant’s first-ever drive of an Extreme E ODYSSEY 21. 17-year-old Grant, who is more used to racing single-seaters on tarmac, put the colossal 500bhp electric race car for a spin around the Hydro X Prix course – fully immersing herself in the Extreme E experience at her home event, alongside fellow Scottish sporting star Sir Chris Hoy.
Upon getting behind the wheel of an ODYSSEY 21 for the first time, Grant said: “Driving the ODYSSEY 21 today was incredible. It was absolutely brilliant and a very different experience for me – off-roading – I’m used to tarmac, so it was amazing.
“I was nervous about the jump section, but after I did it I wanted to do it five more times! It means a lot to me to be an ambassador for FIA Girls on Track and I’m hoping that I can help more girls into the sport and show them what they can achieve.”
To finish off an already unforgettable day, the awestruck girls were also given a front row seat to view Extreme E’s Free Practice session before they headed back to school later in the afternoon.
School visits
In addition to schoolgirls visiting the Hydro X Prix site itself, several of the drivers visited local schools on Wednesday to introduce themselves and talk to the students about Extreme E. Swedish siblings Kevin (Veloce Racing) and Timmy Hansen (Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E) alongside Extreme E Championship Driver Tamara Molinaro visited Wallace Hall Academy – a senior school situated in Thornhill.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust (who spent many of his early years growing up in Scotland) and Emma Gilmour dropped in at Wallace Hall Primary, ABT Cupra XE’s Klara Anderrson and X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell went to Kelloholm Primary, with Amanda Sorensen (No.99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing) and Andreas Bakkerud (JBXE) visiting Sanquhar Academy.
Tipping Point
The Tipping Point series once again used its platform to deliver engaging talks on a number of climate issues, provoking discussion around environmental issues and sustainable alternatives.
The discussion ahead of Round 3 on Saturday was titled ‘Climate Prediction for Rivers and the Impact of Global Warming’, centring on how, as an Official Partner to the championship, Vodafone Business’ technological innovations can support Extreme E to be a safer sport, including the implementation of hydrosensors in Scotland.
There were two Tipping Point talks held ahead of Round 4 on Sunday.
The first was named ‘The Sustainability Trajectory: Requirements versus Progress’, focussing on the importance of sustainability and what it meant to each of panellists – ranging from Official Partners to members of Extreme E’s Scientific Committee.
The second centred on the subject of equality within Extreme E, reinforcing the importance of the Racing for All initiative as well as support from the EqualEngineers Pathways Programme.
Julia Wall-Clarke, Head of Communications and Impact at Extreme E, said: “It was great to use the Tipping Point platform to highlight excellent opportunities the Racing for All programme provides to underrepresented backgrounds looking to get a foothold in a career in motorsport engineering.
“Seeing so many Racing for All candidates now in the Extreme E paddock is huge for our series. It was a pleasure in particular to meet Daanish – No.99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s candidate and member of EqualEngineers’ Pathways Programme – who spoke passionately about the amazing hands-on experience he was having with the team during their Scotland race week, and how it's going to benefit his studies on EV engineering.
“The ambition for Racing for All is to instil an inclusive mindset and ensure a wider recruitment pipeline. Having five candidates already involved in the series is just the beginning.”
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-20 Attentions turn to Sardinia for RXR
Despite two top-five finishes at the Hydro X Prix, Rosberg X Racing (RXR) lost ground on the leaders at the head of the standings. With the next round in Sardinia being a happy hunting ground for Nico Rosberg’s outfit, Johan Kristoffersson and Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky reflect on Rounds 3 and 4 and a challenging weekend in Scotland, despite picking up crucial points.
RXR made a fast-start to proceedings at the Hydro X Prix once they finally got underway.
After Saturday’s Qualifying 1 was cancelled, RXR demonstrated their mettle under pressure in Qualifying 1 Heat 2. In a restarted race due to a red flag, following a crash for ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson, Åhlin-Kottulinsky’s clean getaway gave the team a comfortable buffer to the chasing pack before Kristoffersson sealed victory in his run by more than 20 seconds.
The Grand Final, though, did not prove to be as fruitful for the Season 1 champions.
It was X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell who snatched the lead at the start, with RXR’s Kristoffersson close behind in third as the Swede tailed fellow countryman Timmy Hansen in the Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E ODYSSEY 21. As Hansen grabbed the lead from McConnell, Kristoffersson seized the initiative to take second.
RXR’s Grand Final was to be short-lived, however, as his ODYSSEY 21 connected with the rocky bank of the course, resulting in a roll and ultimately retirement from Round 3.
On the opening round in Scotland, Kristoffersson said: “Unfortunately, that was not a Grand Final we wanted. We had a good start, but from there on, it was extremely difficult. I couldn’t see anything and unfortunately hit one of the banks and flipped the car.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky added: “The most important thing is that Johan was okay. Motor racing has its highs and lows, and we experienced both in Round 3.”
Round 4 marked an opportunity for RXR to get back on track in Scotland.
Kristoffersson was beaten off the start line by RJ Anderson for No. 99 GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing and as the action settled after the initial jockeying for positions, RXR were down to third.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky managed to jump up the order to second following an issue for X44 Vida Carbon Racing in the Switch Zone to secure crucial points.
Those points would prove to be vital, as contact at the start of Qualifying 2 Heat 2 between RXR, ACCIONA | Sainz XE Team and X44 resulted in retirement for Nico Rosberg’s outfit. They would be classified fourth, however, following a penalty after the race issued to the Spanish outfit for causing the collision, which secured them another Grand Final spot.
As conditions worsened, RXR would have to settle for back-to-back fifth places at the Hydro X Prix.
After falling behind the leaders at the start, RXR would once again engage in wheel-to-wheel contact with ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team as they battled for position.
The damage following the contact between Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Laia Sanz ensured both teams were ruled out of contention once more – leaving RXR with a feeling of what could have been from Rounds 3 and 4 in Scotland.
Kristoffersson was in reflective mood after the event: “It was a tough weekend for us. We had to start the Grand Final in a very tricky grid position, and then due to the rain and my wipers not working, visibility was extremely limited. It was not a great weekend, but we still managed to make it to the final on both days and have points on the board, which is important for us.”
Åhlin-Kottulinsky added: “I think we showed good speed, but it was tough circumstances. The guys and girls worked hard to get the car ready for the final, and Johan did the best he could without the wipers. We got them working again at the Switch, but unfortunately, they stopped working on my turn, too and then I experienced a hard hit from the car in front, which is where the race ended for us.
“It is definitely not where we want to be, but sometimes you have weekends like this. We just need to bounce back in Sardinia and do our best there.”
Having taken two victories from the searing heat of Sardinia so far in Extreme E, RXR will look to close the gap at the front when the series returns for Rounds 5 and 6 of Season 3 in July.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-18 XE Explains: storms and flooding in Italy
Parts of Italy are currently experiencing the most extreme weather conditions in recent memory, with heavy rains causing flooding in Italy's northern Emilia-Romagna region. As a result, the mayor of Ravenna says his city is now ‘unrecognisable’, while the Emilia-Romagna F1 Grand Prix which was due to take place this weekend has since been cancelled.
With conditions in the region set to continue, we caught up with Peter Wadhams, Emeritus Professor of Ocean Physics at the University of Cambridge, and Richard Washington, Professor of Climate Science at the University of Oxford, from Extreme E’s Scientific Committee to understand more about the extreme weather and its cause.
Extreme E: Can you explain what's currently happening in Italy?
Professor Peter Wadhams: Italy has been afflicted by an unusually intense burst of rain which has caused widespread flooding, with further rain on the way. One of the effects of the storm has been the cancellation of the Emilia-RomagnaGrand Prix at Imola, but of course there is far more to it than that. Nine people have been killed so far, as 21 rivers have burst their banks and sent masses of water over surrounding land.
Extreme E: What is the cause of the flooding and such extreme weather?
Professor Peter Wadhams: One cause has been the drought which has affected northern Italy since January 2022. Rainfall has been at less than a quarter of the normal level, and this caused rivers to dry up and thus the soil in the riverbed to become dry and cracked. The river Po, Italy’s greatest river, which flows close to where I reside, dried up almost completely. Then the rains came.
May was a time of almost continuous rain, and the dried riverbeds absorbed vast quantities of water, which plugged the base of the rivers such that further rain led to a rapid growth of water level.
The centre of the storm was in the northern Adriatic and the coastline of Emilia Romagna (near Ravenna) where more than 50cm of rain fell in a few hours and 14,000 people have been evacuated. Water level rose by more than a metre in Faenza and Cesena, and the centre of Bologna was flooded. Motorways and railways have been blocked, too.
Extreme E: Due to the climate crisis, is extreme weather such as this likely to appear more frequently?
Professor Peter Wadhams: Events of this nature are becoming increasingly common. They are known as ‘extreme weather events’, but because they are so frequent we ought to be changing the name by now to ‘extreme climate events’. They are related to the breakup of the Jet Stream; this is a strong westerly wind system which separates cold polar air from warmer tropical air, but as these two types of air are now very similar, there is less difference than in the past between the speed of the two flows, so the steady wind streams tend to break up into chaotic motions which allow extremes to happen.
Professor Richard Washington: In spring, the temperature difference between the Sahara and Europe is extreme. The temperatures over the Sahara are stinking hot while snow still lies on the Alps just a short distance to the north. This temperature difference drives the jet stream, with winds of around 200 kmh over northern Italy during the floods. The jet is unstable and goes through periods of weeks when it loops around a lot instead of being a straight, non-loopy west to east wind. In the case of the floods over Italy it was very, very loopy.
The jet creates weather systems and those from a loopy jet are able to hang around in the same place for a lot longer than in the case of a less loopy jet. The rain produced from the weather system made by the loopy jet falls on the same patch of ground. Half the years total rain can fall in a few days and this happened for some places in Italy. The jet stream in the northern hemisphere is becoming much more loopy with climate change, likely because of changing coverage of ice.
Extreme E: Should it be even more alarming that such a climate emergency is happening in a mainland European nation?
Professor Peter Wadhams: We certainly should be, however there is little more we can do about that. Nature takes no notice of the level of economic development and can send these anomalies at any time.
Extreme E: What measures can be put in place to address the risk of these occurrences taking place?
Professor Peter Wadhams: The best we can do is strengthen flood defences so that they can withstand more serious weather impacts than at present. And as weather forecasting advances, we can hope to obtain a few hours more notice of an extreme event arrival. These extreme events are a new phenomenon – the first one occurred in 2005- and the frequency is increasing. We need greater knowledge of what is bearing down on us.
Extreme E Season 3 heads to Sardinia on 8-9 July, co-organised by the Automobile Club d’Italia and Regione Sardegna, where Extreme E’s Scientific Committee will be using the racing to talk about climate issues and solutions facing the islands, from wildfires to droughts, and its effects on biodiversity on land and in the surrounding coastlines.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-15 Veloce Racing take the win in Round 4 at the Hydro X Prix
Veloce Racing took the win in Round 4, marking a second victory of the season and a return to the top of the standings on home soil at the Hydro X Prix.
Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor led from start to finish, fending off attacks from the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, who secured their second-ever podium in Extreme E at also the team’s home event.
Coming in third were No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, with a maiden podium for RJ Anderson and Amanda Sorensen having been in every Grand Final so far this season.
DNFs for both the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team and Rosberg X Racing (RXR) in the Grand Final see Veloce Racing pull away at the top of the championship standings by 11 points.
Winners of the Redemption Race were JBXE, having seen off Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E and ABT CUPRA XE, the only other contenders on course after two DNFs.
Kevin Hansen, Veloce Racing, said: “We had a tough weekend, much tougher than Saudi Arabia. We didn’t really have anything on our side yesterday, so to finally get into the Grand Final and have all our support on GridPlay really helped.
“It was nice after Friday, with our double P1s in Free Practice, to come back and actually get on top! It was a huge effort from the team to pull through in such difficult conditions. They gave me full reign for an hour before the Final and quick decisions on set-up and everything. It was really cool to pull it off."
Grand Final
For the first time in Extreme E’s history there was rain falling during a Final, and it was hard to ignore as the cars battled the elements out on-course.
Veloce Racing’s Hansen secured the lead out of the first corner, something that proved crucial as visibility worsened in the increasingly challenging conditions.
Mattias Ekström and Tanner Foust kept the Swede close, as RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson pulled up alongside the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team and NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team cars in the slow zone by the cliff face – implemented off the back of earlier accidents in the sector.
As the ODYSSEY 21s progressed towards the ascent out of the quarry, Foust slotted into third for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team behind Ekström and ahead of Kristoffersson.
With clear air ahead Hansen began to extend his lead for Veloce Racing, while behind Foust pulled off what felt impossible given the conditions. The American swung round the outside of Ekström in the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team car, finding the grip to complete the move and take second for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team.
Following the driver change, where teams were able to clear the windscreens before the cars exited the Switch Zone, Veloce Racing’s Taylor picked up where Hansen left off with a confident drive to take a second victory for the team this season and a return to the top of the leaderboard.
Behind the Australian, more and more mud was being kicked up by the ODYSSEY 21s as the drivers gave it everything they had. RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinksy and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Laia Sanz came head-to-head once again following their incident in Qualifying 2 – which ended with both teams out of the race.
The Grand Final told a similar tale, but this time it was the RXR car going into the back of the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team machine. As both drivers struggled with visibility and grip, they came into contact again as they tried to resume racing, leaving the door open for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing to take third.
The damage caused from the incident left Åhlin-Kottulinsky with no choice but to come to a stop further down the course. Sanz still had some fight left in her, but it wasn’t long before the Spaniard found herself in the hay bales, which saw ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team drop out of contention and out of their top spot in the championship.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Emma Gilmour and No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Sorensen completed their runs without trouble in second and third place, respectively.
This marked a second-ever podium for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, following finishing runners-up at the Season 2 finale in Uruguay, and important championship points achieved on home turf.
Emma Gilmour, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team, said: It’s been an amazing trip and it’s been very challenging – the weather conditions have made it even more so.
"It was very stressful, especially when there are slow zones and so many places where you can potentially make a mistake, but you are very happy when you can hand it over to your teammate having done a good job. To get a podium was a big relief for the team – just a great feeling – and everyone has put in so much work so we are all really happy."
For No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, it marks their first podium since Sardinia in Season 2, and a first podium with the driver line-up of Anderson and Sorensen, who now sit fifth in the championship just two points behind RXR in third.
Amanda Sorensen, No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, said: "It’s the direction we want to be moving in, so I’m glad to see that we are still improving. There were a couple setbacks in Saudi and we are happy to have taken steps forward, it’s a positive sign.
“For the last four years I’ve been doing Formula Drift, which does have a slippery surface, in a sense. It’s on asphalt and has some grip, but it definitely translates over to this. For me I actually got to rip the e-brake this weekend which was very exciting – it felt like home for me! Knowing how to take the car into the turn and how to react when the car was getting sideways was something I definitely had in my favour."
Redemption Race
With their best start of the Hydro X Prix double-header, JBXE’s Andreas Bakkerud charged to the front of the pack, which lacked a Carl Cox Motorsport car after the damage from the team’s crash in Qualifying 2.
Slotting into second was Timmy Hansen for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, with ABT CUPRA XE’s Nasser Al-Attiyah behind in third.
As the cars slid through the tricky slow zone section, X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell found himself first in the back of the ABT CUPRA XE car and then into the hay bales to his right, marking a disappointing end to the Hydro X Prix after the team’s win in Round 3.
The front three continued as they were into the Switch Zone, where their teammates picked up the mantle and overcame the challenge presented by the worsening weather.
JBXE’s Hedda Hosås crossed the line first, a win that brings redemption for the team after a tough weekend in Scotland that lacked results.
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Catie Munnings finished the race second, building on the team’s podium yesterday to add much needed points to their championship tally and move up from tenth in the championship to seventh.
Crossing the line third in the Redemption Race marked the end of a challenging weekend for ABT CUPRA XE which saw two crashes for the team, and they’ll be looking to come back fighting at the next double-header.
Extreme E returns to action in Sardinia for Rounds 5 and 6 in July (8-9). Find out where you can watch the highlights of the Hydro X Prix here.
RESULTS
Grand Final
1. Veloce Racing 12:52.663
2. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +6.419
3. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +20.490
4. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team DNF
5. Rosberg X Racing DNF
Redemption Race
1. JBXE 12:19.448
2. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +4.968
3. ABT CUPRA XE +30.534
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing DNF
5. Carl Cox Motorsport DNS
Championship Standings
1. Veloce Racing: 80 points
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 69 points
3. Rosberg X Racing: 52 points
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 51 points
5. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 50 points
6. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 36 points
7. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 29 points
8. Carl Cox Motorsport: 23 points
9. ABT CUPRA XE: 20 points
10. JBXE: 15 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-14 Dålig sikt i Extreme E för Johan
Det blev en stökig helg i Extreme E för Rosberg X Racing. Johan Kristoffersson och Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky tog sig visserligen till final båda dagarna, men tvingades bryta.
- Det var nästan omöjligt med sikten, säger Kristoffersson.
Den andra tävlingshelgen för säsongen med de eldrivna terrängbilarna kördes i ett tidigare gruvområde i skotska Glenmuckloch. Det visade sig vara en utmanande terräng där bilarna tog ordentligt med stryk.
Lördagen inleddes annars med helt utebliven körning. Tjock dimma över området gjorde att Q1 fick ställas in. Därför blev Q2 helt avgörande för platserna till finalen. Kristoffersson och Åhlin-Kottulinsky klarade den uppgiften och tog sig till sin tredje raka final för säsongen.
Kristoffersson inledde finalen, men fick tyvärr inte möjlighet att lämna över bilen till Åhlin-Kottulinsky. En vindruta fullsmetad med lera gjorde att sikten blev obefintlig.
- Torkarna fungerade inte som de skulle och därefter tappade jag ena torkarbladet. Jag såg inte vart jag var på väg så jag körde in i en vall och rullade. Min första rullning någonsin, konstaterar Kristoffersson.
Med bilen parkerad vid sidan blev det en femteplats för RXR.
Nya tag på söndagen, som inleddes på ett godkänt sätt.
- En ganska okej Q1 efter att pojkarna hade fixat bilen. Allt var frid och fröjd.
Men i Q2 var det slut på friden. Åhlin/Kottulinsky kom iväg bra in mot första svängen, men fick ett par rejäla tryckare bakifrån av Laiz Sanz. Den andra smällen skickade Mikaela helt ur riktningen och hon rammade därpå Cristina Gutierrez, med skador på båda bilarna som följd.
- Laia fick en bestraffning, men det hjälpte ju inte oss, säger Johan.
Efter en del domaringripanden tog sig RXR ändå till finalen.
- Då var det riktigt halkigt och lerigt och vi startade längst ut - som vanligt.
Kristoffersson hamnade i smeten - bokstavligen på det leriga underlaget.
- Tjockt med lera på rutan. Jag var tvungen att lämna en lucka till Mattias Ekström för att kunna åka själv.
Johan lämnade över till Mikaela som fyra. Teamkamraten försökte ta upp jakten, men åter en gång med näst intill obefintlig sikt.
- Torkarna fungerade till en början för Mikaela, men sedan slutade de och då blev det svårt.Efter ny närkontakt med Sanz och medföljande skador på bilen tvingades Mikaela parkera för en ny femteplats.
- Där var racet över för vår del, konstaterar Johan Kristoffersson.
RXR var nu inte det enda teamet att ha problem med lera och halka. Det gjorde att det rörde om en hel del i resultatlistan och tabellsammandraget. Inför nästa tävlingshelg på Sardinien i början av juli leder Veloce Racing med Kevin Hansen och Molly Taylor på 80 poäng. Rosberg X Racing är kvar på sin tredje plats med 52 poäng.
23-05-14 No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing top Qualifying in Round 4 at the Hydro X Prix
With a win in both of their Qualifying Heats in Round 4, No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing enter their second Grand Final of the Hydro X Prix.
RJ Anderson and Amanda Sorensen came out on top with a perfect score, after a stop-start Qualifying 2 in which both Heats were red flagged due to incidents in the first sector of the course.
Making it to the Grand Final for the first time this season, the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team recovered well to take second place in Qualifying 2 Heat 1, after driver Emma Gilmour, along with Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider and ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson, all crashed into the hay bales below the cliff face on the opening lap.
Winners of Qualifying 2 Heat 2, Veloce Racing, will also feature in the Round 4 Grand Final. A collision between ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Laia Sanz and Rosberg X Racing’s (RXR) Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky at the first corner of the Heat saw DNFs for both teams, along with damage to the X44 Vida Carbon Racing car.
The ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team were classified as fifth for causing the incident, but qualified fourth in overall Qualifying. Meanwhile RXR’s fourth place in Qualifying 2 Heat 2 was enough to secure the last spot in the Grand Final alongside the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team.
The remaining five teams will battle it out in the Redemption Race for crucial championship points as the second double-header of Extreme E Season 3 comes to an end.
Qualifying 1 Heat 1
Using the same line that served them well in yesterday’s Qualifying 2, No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing swung around the outside of the pack as RJ Anderson took the lead out of Waypoint 1.
Shutting the door on Rosberg X Racing’s Johan Kristoffersson, Fraser McConnell slotted into second for X44 Vida Carbon Racing, with ABT CUPRA XE’s Nasser Al-Attiyah in hot pursuit from fourth. Round 3 podium finishers Carl Cox Motorsport ran in fifth with Christine GZ as the teams approached the driver change.
An issue for X44 Vida Carbon Racing saw Cristina Gutiérrez exit the Switch Zone in fourth, behind RXR’s Åhlin-Kottulinsky and ABT CUPRA XE’s Andersson. The Spaniard fought hard to regain third place, and soon succeeded with a bold overtake up the inside of the ABT CUPRA XE car as they launched over a jump.
A smooth drive from Sorensen up front secured the win for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, while Åhlin-Kottulinsky brought the RXR ODYSSEY 21 home in second.
Post-race the stewards identified that contact from Gutiérrez as she looked to overtake Andersson caused a puncture for the Swede, and X44 Vida Carbon Racing were demoted to fourth place behind ABT CUPRA XE.
Qualifying 1 Heat 2
A strong start for the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team saw Mattias Ekström dominate the inside line to take the lead out of the opening corner. Behind, Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen held his ground to keep second place.
Both Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Timmy Hansen and NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust stormed ahead of JBXE to take third and fourth, respectively, as the teams entered the steep climb out of the quarry.
Soon after Hansen entered a spin, re-joining the race nearly a minute off the front and with only rear wheel drive engaged. Up ahead, Foust was closing the gap on Veloce Racing’s Hansen, and soon stole second as the Veloce Racing car struggled with a bent drive shaft.
Following the driver switch, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Sanz crossed the line comfortably first, lapping Catie Munnings as the Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E car fought to keep going.
Gilmour retained second place for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team. Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor kept third, despite a 10-second penalty for Hansen hitting a Waypoint flag, as he pushed to stay ahead of NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team's Foust.
Technical issues saw JBXE crawl home in fourth with Hedda Hosås behind the wheel, while Munnings nearly caught up with the crippled JBXE ODYSSEY 21 but, ultimately, ended the Heat in fifth.
Qualifying 2 Heat 1
A quick launch off the line gave NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Gilmour the pace she needed to shut out Carl Cox Motorsport’s Scheider. However, this pace also saw the New Zealander slide into the hay bales, promptly followed by Scheider. ABT CUPRA XE’s Andersson then veered off-course to avoid contact with the stationary Carl Cox Motorsport car.
With both Carl Cox Motorsport and ABT CUPRA XE out of contention, the race restarted with one lap to go until the Switch Zone. Gilmour took the lead as the teams entered a slow zone through Waypoints 3 and 4 where the incidents had occurred.
JBXE’s Hosås was slow off the line as the ODYSSEY 21 failed to respond, but the Norwegian was soon on her way, albeit a long way back from No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Sorensen in second.
With JBXE far behind, the front two delivered safe runs knowing that, combined with their Qualifying 1 result, first or second place in the Heat would see them through to the Grand Final.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Foust maintained the lead on his two-lap stint after the driver change, but a 30-second penalty for speeding in the slow zone on Gilmour’s lap put the team down to second.
Qualifying 2 Heat 2
As the five female drivers set off from the start line, RXR’s Åhlin-Kottulinsky and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Sanz moved closer and closer together as the pair tussled to secure the inside line in the opening corner.
With neither driver giving up the fight, Sanz clipped the back of Åhlin-Kottulinsky, sending the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team car into a spin and the RXR ODYSSEY 21 over the banking and across the racing line.
While Veloce Racing’s Taylor and Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Munnings avoided contact with the out-of-control RXR car, Gutiérrez took a big hit to the front right of her X44 Vida Carbon Racing machine.
The Heat resumed after the red flag with only three teams on-course. The ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team classified fifth, behind RXR, for causing the incident. Despite the DNFs, both teams make it through to the Grand Final after strong performances in Qualifying 1.
Off the start line a second time around, Taylor secured the lead once again for Veloce Racing, with Munnings in second for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E ahead of X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Gutiérrez.
Taylor played it safe heading into the slow zone, and throughout her remaining lap, setting the stage for a dramatic battle between the Hansen brothers. However, difficulties getting Timmy Hansen secured in the Andretti Altawkilat car put the team too far behind to compete with Veloce Racing.
The Switch Zone incident dropped the team into third behind X44 Vida Carbon Racing, but McConnell struggled with his damaged car, losing control in a spin with only rear wheel drive at his dispense.
Hansen soon took second place away from McConnell, but second for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E and third for X44 Vida Carbon Racing were not enough to put either team through to the Grand Final.
The win in Heat 2 was just the comeback that Veloce Racing needed to make it through to the Grand Final, keeping their hopes of a third podium after just four rounds alive.
RESULTS
Q1 Heat 1:
1. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing 10:07.156
2. Rosberg X Racing +9.968
3. ABT CUPRA XE +21.564
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +13.458 (change of track position)
5. Carl Cox Motorsport +23.618
Q1 Heat 2:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team 10:13.931
2. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +4.073
3. Veloce Racing +35.251 (PENALISED)
4. JBXE +2:45.950
5. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +1 LAP
Q2 Heat 1:
1. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing 55:32.396
2. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +27.017 (PENALISED)
3. JBXE +1:33.392 (PENALISED)
4. Carl Cox Motorsport DNF
5. ABT CUPRA XE DNF
Q2 Heat 2:
1. Veloce Racing 33:38.652
2. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +46.341
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +1:15.676
4. Rosberg X Racing DNF
5. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team DNF
Qualifying Standings:
1. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 20 points
2. Veloce Racing: 16 points
3. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 16 points
4. Rosberg X Racing: 12 points
5. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 12 points
6. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 10 points
7. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 10 points
8. JBXE: 10 points
9. ABT CUPRA XE: 8 points
10. Carl Cox Motorsport: 6 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-13 X44 Vida Carbon Racing win Round 3 at homecoming Hydro X Prix
Lewis Hamilton’s outfit X44 Vida Carbon Racing maintained their top Qualifying form to take the win in Round 3 at their home event, the Hydro X Prix, in Scotland. The victory marks Fraser McConnell's first win in Extreme E and the Season 2 champions' first win of the 2023 campaign.
McConnell and Cristina Gutiérrez crossed the line in second place, but a penalty for on-course winners Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E dropped British star Catie Munnings and team-mate Timmy Hansen down to second place.
Coming in third were Carl Cox Motorsport, scoring their maiden podium in the championship after just three rounds and at international DJ Carl Cox's home X Prix.
Winners of the Redemption Race were ACCIONA | SAINZ Extreme E Team having seen off championship rivals Veloce Racing.
Fraser McConnell, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: "It's amazing to get my first win for X44. It’s been something that I’ve been working towards not just for me but for the whole team.
"It just goes to show that prioritising opportunity and inclusivity doesn’t have to come at the cost of performance, and we're proud to be showing what's possible here in Extreme E.
"We didn't have the best starting position - second from the outside - so I knew I was going to have to do something a little risky to get in front which I managed. Then I went a little wide and I had to settle in behind the leaders, but that’s racing. We were able to stay close enough to capitalise on their [Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E] penalty. A win is always a win and I am very happy to do this one for X44."
Grand Final
Of the five cars lining up on the start line, two were there for the first time in Extreme E Season 3. For Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E a spot in the Grand Final marked a strong comeback following a difficult Desert X Prix, while for Carl Cox Motorsport it was their first ever Extreme E Grand Final.
All the teams except X44 Vida Carbon Racing used their ENOWA Hyperdrive as they charged towards the first corner. Instead McConnell hung back from the pack, turning early to undercut the ODYSSEY 21s in front and using his ENOWA Hyperdrive late to storm into the lead.
The Jamaican carried this pace into the first steep ascent of the course, but McConnell’s speed caused him to run wide, opening the door for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Hansen to pull up alongside and exit the climb in the lead.
Meanwhile Rosberg X Racing’s (RXR) Johan Kristoffersson kept the tussling pair close at hand, and soon performed an overtake on McConnell to take second place. The Swede would not retain it for long, however, as his ODYSSEY 21 connected with a rocky bank of the course, resulting in a roll that put RXR out of the race.
No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson slotted into third place, and Carl Cox Motorsport’s Christine GZ ran in fourth as the team’s entered the Switch Zone.
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E exited the driver-change with a comfortable lead that Munnings maintained throughout her two-lap stint. The Brit crossed the line in first-place, but celebrations were cut short when a 15.3-second penalty for a Switch Zone infringement dropped Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E to second. Inheriting the win, X44 Vida Carbon Racing move up into third place in the championship standings, above Season 1 champions RXR in fourth.
Catie Munnings, Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E, said: "Podiums are amazing no matter where you are standing, especially when the competition here is so fast. The course is unbelievably quick and so technical, therefore to come away with this result is fantastic.
"We crossed the line in first, and I think we had a good few seconds to spare, but unfortunately we got a pretty hefty penalty in the Switch Zone for leaving a bit too early. The top step wasn’t ours unfortunately, but it feels like a win for us and it’s been a little while since we’ve been on the podium."
Behind the front two misfortune befell No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, as a puncture for RJ Anderson on his run led to trouble for the rest of the race. Carl Cox Motorsport made the most of the opportunity, with Timo Scheider overtaking Amanda Sorensen early on in his stint to claim a first podium for the team and for GZ.
Timo Scheider, Carl Cox Motorsport, said: "Everything is brand new with the team, so it’s an awesome result for all of us. We had a different strategy from some of the others today and we had a long discussion about if we were going to swap our running order, but our strategy played out well in the end.
"Carl Cox has been great. We appreciate having so much positive energy in the team and he is always asking questions. It’s very refreshing to see this and his attitude is all about winning and enjoying what he’s doing. He also has a bit of history in racing, and he’s launched a TCR car in Australia, so he is truly great and I’m proud to to be part of his team here."
Redemption Race
Tied on 46 points as they entered the Hydro X Prix, championship leaders Veloce Racing and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team found themselves in unfamiliar territority as they took on their first-ever Redemption Race.
Only four teams lined up for the race, as ABT CUPRA XE were unable to repair their ODYSSEY 21 following a crash for Klara Andersson in Qualifying.
Veloce Racing nearly secured the early lead as Kevin Hansen stormed up the outside line, but water on course caused the British squad’s ODYSSEY 21 to lose momentum, allowing ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Mattias Ekström to move to the front of the pack.
As Hansen stayed on Ekström’s tail, Emma Gilmour kept the front two in her sights for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team. As she pushed to close the gap, Gilmour ran wide into a corner, dropping further behind but staying ahead of JBXE’s Andreas Bakkerud.
The teams entered the Switch Zone in this order and, following the driver change, a confident stint from Laia Sanz saw her cross the line in first. The Redemption Race win for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team was further backed up with a victory in the Continental Traction Challenge, and puts the team four points ahead of Veloce Racing at the top of the championship standings.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust pushed hard but took third behind Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor, with Hedda Hosås finishing the race in fourth for JBXE.
Tomorrow’s racing action can be viewed live on STV and ITV in the UK from 1300-1500 BST. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
RESULTS
Grand Final:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing 10:12.670
2. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +8.986 (PENALISED)
3. Carl Cox Motorsport +38.977
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +1:01.716
5. Rosberg X Racing DNF
Redemption Race:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team 09:49.303
2. Veloce Racing +3.650
3. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +16.200
4. JBXE +32.779
5. ABT CUPRA XE DNS
Championship Standings:
1. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 56 points
2. Veloce Racing: 52 points
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 49 points
4. Rosberg X Racing: 42 points
5. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 33 points
6. Carl Cox Motorsport: 23 points
7. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 23 points
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 18 points
9. ABT CUPRA XE: 16 points
10. JBXE: 7 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-13 X44 Vida Carbon Racing top an action-packed Qualifying in Round 3
In the fight for a spot in the Round 3 Grand Final at the Hydro X Prix, it all came down to Qualifying 2 after the opening Qualifying session was cancelled due to low-lying fog, which meant the medical helicopter was unable to fly.
Finishing first in Heat 1 were defending champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing, as Cristina Gutiérrez and Fraser McConnell led the race from start to finish. Winners of Heat 2 were Season 1 champions Rosberg X Racing (RXR), who finished second overall with a slower time through the Continental Traction Challenge.
A crash for ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson in the opening stages of Heat 2 resulted in a red flag, while a second DNF in the Heat came from a mechanical issue for championship leaders Veloce Racing.
Also in the line-up for the Grand Final are No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing and Carl Cox Motorsport with second place in their respective Heats. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E complete the Grand Final grid.
The remaining five teams will fight it out in the Redemption Race to determine sixth to tenth place in the Round 3 standings.
Cristina Gutiérrez, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: “It’s great to finish first as we can go to the Grand Final and we can fight for everything!
“The biggest challenge is the conditions because all the time it’s changing and it’s totally different – so the most important thing is to adapt as much as possible our driving style in the moment that we are racing so it’s a double challenge. We need to be clever and not make mistakes because one mistake makes a lot of difference.
QUALIFYING 2 HEAT 1
Recognising the importance of the first corner ahead of a narrow section of the course, the teams tussled for position on the short opening stretch. Diving into the right-hander, X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Cristina Gutiérrez muscled her way to the front of the pack from the innermost line.
Launching from the other side of the start line was Amanda Sorenson for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing. The American took the wide line into the corner and, avoiding contact with the teams battling in the middle, managed to secure second place heading into her two-lap stint.
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Laia Sanz slotted into third, with British talent Catie Munnings taking fourth for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E after a pass on JBXE’s Hedda Hosås as they exited the opening corner.
As Sanz closed in on Sorensen, Munnings kept the pair within reach and soon launched an aggressive overtake on the distracted Sanz. The Brit completed the manoeuvre just in time as the ODYSSEY 21s entered the steep descent down to the Switch Zone.
The intense racing saw plenty of ODYSSEY 21s riding two heels at the end of the third lap, as all five teams pushed for that all-important top three spot in the Heat needed to reach the Grand Final.
A smooth drive from X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell saw the Jamaican cross the line first as the team progresses into the Grand Final. Joining them are No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, entering their third Grand Final from three as RJ Anderson brought the team home in second place.
The quickest lap of the Heat came from Hansen as the Swede finished the Heat in third for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E. This proved crucial, as the team secured a quicker Continental Traction Challenge time than the third-placed team in Heat 2 to head into the Grand Final for the first time this season.
Finishing in fourth and fifth were Ekström and Andreas Bakkerud, meaning both ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team and JBXE will battle it out in the Redemption Race.
QUALIFYING 2 HEAT 2
In the fight for the remaining spots in the Grand Final, Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky got a good start for RXR to put the team ahead of the pack. Behind her, Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider and ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson went wheel-to-wheel in pursuit of second place.
As the track narrowed the ODYSSEY 21s only got closer, and the ABT CUPRA XE car entered a barrel roll as it ran out of room. Andersson came away unscathed as the session was red flagged.
Klara Andersson, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “Physically I’m ok, but I'm upset. The mechanics have been working all weekend repairing the car from NEOM, and now we are in trouble again and nothing we can do.
“I was on my way to pass and there was no room. I'm very frustrated as we followed the plan but if there's no room there's nowhere for me to go.”
Running in fourth, NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust avoided the incident, while behind him a mechanical issue for Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor saw her veer off-course. While the Australian recovered, the damage to the car brought the championship leaders to a stop out on course, meaning they enter the Redemption Race alongside their rivals, the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team.
Heat 2 resumed from the start line, with the three remaining teams setting off at intervals matching those when the session was flagged. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Foust used his ENOWA Hyperdrive from the outset to close the gap on Scheider in the Carl Cox Motorsport ODYSSEY 21.
The American set up team-mate Emma Gilmour as best as he could, as the other drivers took over for the final two laps of the Heat. However, in their push to make up time, the team received a 5-second penalty for being too far out of their bay in the Switch Zone.
Despite a valiant drive from Gilmour, which saw her pass Christine GZ on the uphill Traction Challenge sector, the New Zealander was unable to build enough of a lead to retain second after the penalty was applied. The NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team will enter the Redemption Race as their combined time in the Continental Traction Challenge is slower than that of Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E.
An untroubled run for RXR saw Johan Kristoffersson finish Heat 2 in first, taking the team through to the Grand Final alongside Carl Cox Motorsport.
The Grand Final and Redemption Race can be viewed live on STV and ITV in the UK from 1300-1500 BST. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
RESULTS
Q2 Heat 1:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing 09:50.935
2. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +6.203
3. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +8.191
4. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +10.744
5. JBXE +31.551
Q2 Heat 2:
1. Rosberg X Racing 42:43.301
2. Carl Cox Motorsport +20.971
3. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +24.215 (PENALISED)
4. Veloce Racing DNF
5. ABT CUPRA XE DNF
Overall Qualifying Standings:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 10 points
2. Rosberg X Racing: 10 points
3. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 8 points
4. Carl Cox Motorsport: 8 points
5. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 6 points
6. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 6 points
7. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 4 points
8. Veloce Racing: 4 points
9. JBXE: 2 points
10. ABT CUPRA XE: 2 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-12 Veloce Racing quickest in Free Practice on challenging Hydro X Prix course
Extreme E debuted in Scotland today for its second-double header of Season 3. The championship’s ten teams put their ODYSSEY 21s to the test in Free Practice on one of the most extreme courses in the series to date, situated in the former opencast coal mine at Glenmuckloch.
The 2.67-kilometre course of the Hydro X Prix provides a new set of challenges for Extreme E’s world-class grid. The 20 drivers are contending with steep inclines, narrow racing lines, and a drastic change in terrain as they exit the old coal mine, which is soon to be transformed into a Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH) plant and wind farm.
Alejandro Agag, CEO and Founder of Extreme E, said: “I think we have a great story to tell here. Similarly, to Chile with the copper mines, here we are in an old coal mine which will be converted into a hydro station that will help restore renewable energy.
“The beauty of this site is that you are surrounded by the actual generation of energy. You can see these wind turbines all around us. Scotland gets 97% of its energy from renewables so I think it’s a great place and great story to tell with Extreme E.”
After the Extreme E line-up got a feel for the exciting new course in Free Practice 1, the times began to tumble in the following session, with all teams achieving their best laps the second time around.
Fastest in Free Practice 2 were Veloce Racing with a time of 09:58.466mins. Off the back of a maiden victory at the Desert X Prix, Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor laid down the marker as leaders in the championship, with the former setting the fastest lap of the day.
Kevin Hansen, Veloce Racing, said: “We had a really good day today and enjoyed the track. I think from the outside it looks maybe more insane than from the inside. When you are driving you are so focused on the line and everything, so you don’t really take in all the amazing scenery. But it is an incredible location – like I said it is probably the most incredible location we’ve been to in terms of surroundings.
“Veloce as a team has been working super hard over the past few years and really tried to achieve this performance. I think all that hard work came alive and it is such an incredible atmosphere for the team, such a family vibe. I come from a family racing team and it naturally suits me and Molly as well, so it’s a great spirit and that helps us to perform well.”
Defending champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing enter the Hydro X Prix outside of the championship top three, but were the only other team to break the 10-minute mark in Free Practice with a time of 09:59.988. Just over a second slower than Veloce Racing, Cristina Gutiérrez and Fraser McConnell secured the start they need, with McConnell going quickest through two of the four sectors.
ABT CUPRA XE's Nasser Al-Attiyah went quickest through the first sector, while teammate Klara Andersson completed their commanding stint to put the team third with 10:01.567.
Coming in fourth were ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, despite a mechanical failure cutting their FP1 short, as they look to carry on the momentum from a long-awaited victory at the season-opener. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team completed the Top 5 with a blistering lap from Tanner Foust which secured the best time through the last sector.
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E and No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing finished sixth and seventh, respectively, with both teams experiencing issues. A puncture for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E was kept under control by Timmy Hansen, while Amanda Sorenson recovered well from a trip off-course and a subsequent penalty for missing the waypoint.
Also receiving penalties were Carl Cox Motorsport in eighth and JBXE in ninth place. Jenson Button’s team welcome former Championship Driver Andreas Bakkerud for this X Prix, who built on his experience of the ODYSSEY 21 today as he prepares for his first Extreme E race tomorrow.
Finding themselves in unfamiliar territory at the bottom of the Free Practice timesheet were Rosberg X Racing. Nico Rosberg’s outfit put forward a confident performance, setting the second quickest time in FP1, but a culmination of penalties for dropping waypoint flags impacted their time in FP2.
Free Practice combined timings:
1. Veloce Racing: 09:58.466 (FP2)
2. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 09:59.988 (FP2)
3. ABT CUPRA XE: 10:01.567 (FP2)
4. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 10:05.714 (FP2)
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 10:07.199 (FP2
6. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 10:18.160 (FP2)
7. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 10:21.197 (FP2)
8. Carl Cox Motorsport: 10:47.474 (FP2)
9. JBXE: 10:49.812 (FP2)
10. Rosberg X Racing: 10:54.845 (FP2)
The racing action can be viewed live on STV and ITV in the UK from 1300-1500 BST, over both Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 May. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-12 Extreme E unveils dramatic Hydro X Prix course
Extreme E has revealed its course in Scotland for the Hydro X Prix, taking place inside the former opencast coal mine at Glenmuckloch this weekend (13-14 May).
The pioneering series’ return to the UK brings the 10 teams and 20 world class drivers face-to-face with the most challenging course by the championship to date.
The Hydro X Prix course features plenty of fast corners and narrow, technical sections, challenging the drivers to adapt their driving style over two races this weekend.
The terrain is that of the old coal mine as the course dives down into the quarry, meaning plenty of clay to stick to the tyres. The drivers will have to contend with ever decreasing grip – especially if there is some Scottish rain – as the course evolves and the clay is kicked up.
As the ODYSSEY 21s progress along the course, they will tackle corners aptly named after Scottish words. Creag, brae, gleann, and cnoc all feature in reference to the rocky hills, slopes, deep valley, and hill pastures that make up the Scotland course for the Hydro X Prix.
Tamara Molinaro, Extreme E Championship Driver, said: “This is probably one of the most extreme courses we have ever had. It will be quite a challenge because in some places it is quite narrow so it is hard to overtake, and the drivers will have to use their creativity to get those overtaking opportunities.
“There are changes in the levels of grip, because there is grass, slimy gravel, and more rocky sections, forcing the drivers to change style at short notice. The weather is also going to be something that the drivers must really take into consideration. A lot of elevation changes will make it even more interesting, and I can’t wait to see what the course delivers this weekend.”
Off the start line there is a wide section that leads into a sharp ninety-degree right turn, before the track narrows as the teams approach the rock face, the key feature of this course with tight lines being taken at high speeds.
It will be crucial to get a better start than your competitors as the narrow track stretches across the full extent of the rock face towards a ninety-degree left turn and up a steeply banked hill, where the cars will scrabble for purchase as they exit the mine.
At the top of the hill is another ninety-degree left into one of the fastest sections of the course, as the ODYSSEY 21s fly across the ridge. Here the terrain is similar, but more exposed to the elements, meaning the cars will slide as they continue to battle for position.
An overtaking opportunity sits directly before a narrow single car section, challenging the drivers to time their manoeuvres perfectly. Following this the drivers approach a downhill corner, where steep banking will help the drivers to hold a slide.
From there the ODYSSEY 21s charge towards the first jump of the course, designed to unsettle the cars as they land right at the point of needing to turn, presenting a new challenge for the Extreme E grid.
Another banked hill leads towards another single file section which brings the drivers into close quarters as they tussle for position.
The next ninety-degree turn takes the cars right and up a steep hill, where the terrain changes from the clay and rock, to grass and mud. This marks another challenge for the ODYSSEY 21s to contend with. As the drivers change their style to instantly adapt to the change in terrain, it will be hard to maintain a rhythm throughout the double-header.
Joining Tamara Molinaro as her fellow Championship Driver is Tommi Hallman, an up and coming Rallycross driver from Finland. Hallman most recently competed in Nitro RX NXT, where he was the overall winner in the 2022/23 season.
Previously, the Finn secured the 2022 Nitro Rallycross Championship NRX NEXT Europe series title, which followed up his RallyX Nordic Supercar Lites titles success in 2021. His stint as Championship Driver for the Hydro X Prix will mark his Extreme E debut and the first time he has got behind the wheel of the ODYSSEY 21.
The exciting racing action can be seen live on STV and ITV, in the UK from 1300-1500 BST, over both Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 May. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-10 Skotsk terräng för Johan i Extreme E
Efter två månaders uppehåll är det dags för den andra tävlingshelgen i Extreme E. Skottland är destinationen för Johan Kristoffersson och hans teamkamrat i Rosberg X Racing, Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky.
- Man vill alltid vinna, men det viktigaste är att samla poäng och skaffa sig en bra position för fortsättningen, säger Kristoffersson.
Den tredje säsongen för de eldrivna terrängbilarna inleddes i mars i Saudiarabien. Kristoffersson och Åhlin-Kottulinsky summerade två tredjeplatser efter en helg med blandad framgång. Den här gången får RXR-teamet slå lite ur underläge.
- Vi ligger trea, femton poäng efter Acciona och Veloce som delar ledningen. Det är ändå rätt okej.
Den här säsongen körs det dubbeltävlingar på samtliga fem spelplatser, en tydlig ökning från förra året.
- Det är ju totalt tio tävlingar i år så det gäller att vara med och plocka poäng hela tiden och ha så högt lägstaresultat som möjligt.
Banan i Skottland är ny för året och är belägen i området Dumfries och Galloway i sydvästra delen av landet. Tävlingen kallas Hydro X Prix och körs vid en nedlagd kolgruva i Glenmuckloch, där man håller på att förvandla området till en anläggning för produktion av vatten- och vindkraft.
- Terrängen är typiskt brittisk skulle jag säga. Det är en blandning av sten, grus och gräs med partier som liknar de vi körde på gräs i Uruguay och på grus i England. Det ser väldigt kuperat ut.
Tävlingsdagarna kommer att börja med kval kl 8:00 centraleuropeisk tid och finalpass vid 14:00 på eftermiddagen.
- Det är tidigt på säsongen än, så det gäller att inte ta alltför stora risker utan att se till att ta poäng i varje tävling, sammanfattar Johan Kristoffersson.
23-05-08 Andreas Bakkerud joins Jenson Button's JBXE for Hydro X Prix
Norwegian rallycross star Andreas Bakkerud will race for Jenson Button’s JBXE team at the upcoming Hydro X Prix in Scotland.
Bakkerud will partner Hedda Hosås at the next round of Extreme E Season 3 (13-14 May), completing an all-Norwegian line-up for the outfit, as well as the remainder of the 2023 campaign. The off-road ace replaces Heikki Kovalainen at JBXE, who drove for the team at the season opener in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, in March.
The Hydro X Prix marks Bakkerud’s racing debut in the series, but he is no stranger to Extreme E having signed as a Championship Driver ahead of the Season 3 opener alongside Tamara Molinaro. Bakkerud also previously experienced the ODYSSEY 21 during pre-season testing at Chateau de Lastours, France, in 2020.
Andreas Bakkerud, JBXE, said: "I’m super excited to be announced as a competing driver for JBXE. From testing the car in France in the beginning to stepping in as the Championship Driver in Saudi Arabia learning all about the car and the Championship, it’s fantastic to continue being a part of this journey.
“I love what Extreme E is all about, especially their environmental initiatives, how it champions their actions against climate change, and in general, the whole race for the planet ethos, which is also something we in Norway are huge advocates of.”
The 31-year-old has had a long and successful career as a rallycross driver, with his first titles coming in 2011 and 2012 when he clinched back-to-back Super1600 (now Euro RX3) crowns. The Norwegian went on to win seven times along the way. In 2014, Bakkerud stepped up to the World Championship stage and, two years later, following a switch to Hoonigan Racing Division, achieved three wins resulting in third place in the overall standings.
The Norwegian matched that championship finish in 2018, delivering six podium finishes, before he fought fellow Extreme E star Timmy Hansen for the World Rallycross title in 2019, with the pair’s duel going right the way down to the wire. After colliding in a dramatic finale in Cape Town, they ended up tied on points but Bakkerud was beaten to the championship by Hansen on countback.
Bakkerud returned to Euro RX in 2021 and lifted his third European Championship trophy. He also took on Nitro Rallycross in 2021, securing a podium in his inaugural campaign with third place. Building on this performance in 2022, he achieved three podiums and a maiden victory within the first five races for Group E in the Nitro Rallycross calendar.
Jenson Button, Team Owner of JBXE, said: "I am thrilled and honoured to welcome Andreas Bakkerud to JBXE for the next round of the season in Scotland. Andreas’ off-road racing pedigree speaks for itself, and his experience will be invaluable in our new all Norwegian partnership alongside Hedda in the team as we look to kickstart our 2023 campaign.
“We’re hopeful of a positive showing at our home event at the Hydro X Prix and I am excited to see how our new line-up fares out on track.”
Bakkerud added: “Being back in the Extreme E paddock, I look forward to racing with such a great group of drivers, many who I’ve raced against before, I even drove for Mattias! I have never been to Scotland before so I’m excited to visit a new place - I've heard it's an extreme track! I can’t wait to get stuck in and immerse myself in the local culture, definitely some of their local snacks!
“It is my first time racing with a Norwegian so I am looking forward to teaming up with Hedda. I’m hoping we can cultivate a great working relationship and help each other both improve and succeed. For sure, it will take some time to get used to things, but I hope I can steer JBXE in the right direction.”
You can find out how Bakkerud fares in his Extreme E debut alongside Hosås at the Hydro X Prix next month.
The racing action will be available live on STV and ITV, in the UK, over both Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 May. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-03 Fraser McConnell on thriving with X44 Vida Carbon Racing
Extreme E: You’ve gone from Championship Driver to working with last season’s champions in the series – how does that feel?
Fraser McConnell: I’m super excited to be competing full time in the series. It’s an amazing feeling to be driving for the reigning champions and for boss man Lewis Hamilton! I’m also really proud that X44 is such a diverse team which prioritises giving people an opportunity to work in motorsport, we have such a young and up and coming team and I love being part of that.
Extreme E: How has your relationship with your new team-mate Cristina Gutiérrez been since joining the team
FM: I’m loving working alongside Cristina. She’s so talented and has really helped me get to grips with everything during the first race weekend. We had some great conversations on track at the Desert X Prix and went to dinner a couple of times too, she has some funny stories about her time with X44 so far!
I’m excited to get back together with her in Scotland and see what we can achieve for the team.
Extreme E: Looking ahead to the next round in Scotland, what are you expecting there?
FM: It’s always fun going to different locations around the world and I have high hopes that Scotland is going to be a lot of fun – I mean, racing in an old coal mine, that’s pretty cool. To be honest I’m now just looking forward to getting on track and getting a better feel for the car on the terrain. I’m also looking forward to trying some traditional Scottish food. Maybe haggis, or the team are telling me a battered Mars bar could be the way to go. I can’t wait!
Extreme E: What experiences do you have of racing in the UK?
FM: I raced at Lydden Hill last year in Nitro Rallycross and I loved it, such an historic circuit and the fans were amazing. There’s such a strong motorsport tradition in the UK and of course most of the X44 team including our boss Lewis are from here, so it’s going to be like a home race for us.
That said, I always try to bring a bit of that Jamaican flavour so you can expect to hear some dancehall tunes coming out of the X44 garage over the weekend.
Extreme E: This season has seen the implementation of double-header events, which means more racing and wheel-to-wheel action. How have you found it?
FM: The more racing, the better! It’s been cool so far; and I love being able to get more time on track to get to grips with the car and learn as much as possible on each terrain as well. I feel very comfortable racing wheel-to-wheel with my go kart and rallycross knowledge so I'm looking forward to being able to give Cristina the car in the switch with a healthy margin.
Extreme E: Lastly, what are your expectations for the Hydro X Prix?
FM: Well as everyone knows by now, anything can happen in Extreme E, so we’re just going to work hard on the car and our strategy to put us in the best place possible. We’re going to go out there and push for the win and with a team as good as ours, we’re confident we can do it.
I’m hearing rumours of a boat party with DJ Carl Cox too so lots to look forward to!
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-05-02 Veloce Racing's Kevin Hansen on preparations for the Hydro X Prix
Extreme E: You’re going into the Hydro X Prix as the championship leader! How does that feel?
Kevin Hansen: It feels great to be the championship leader! It’s exactly where we aim to be and where we hope to be and where we worked to be as well. The team has put an incredible effort in over the past six months especially, but also the last two years to get to this point. It’s great to finally start off on a great note and to be the championship leaders. It’s exactly where we want to be and hope to stay.
Extreme E: Now that the dust has settled - could you sum up in three words the opening round in NEOM?
KH: That’s an interesting one. I would go with ‘Veloce, Live Fast’. The team’s success is down to just hard work and the team spirit that is incredibly nice. Everybody is so hungry for success. We believe in each other and have confidence in the whole team, from content to engineering to drivers and we take on each weekend as a collective group. We go out there on the track to perform at our best and I think that is what we have created our success from.
Each individual in the team is doing their upmost and they’re hungry for doing their best and that is the perfect way to work in this championship.
Extreme E: You picked up a win and a second-place finish in Saudi Arabia. Does the new sporting format suit you?
KH: Yes, I think it suits me. It’s more of a similar amount of driving to what I am used to. There is a lot of on-track action, three times a day, and you still have a lot of time to analyse the racing and to work on your driving. You also get more time in the car which is really cool so I would say the new race format is great. It is definitely more like rallycross – there are more head-to-heads and that is something that I really enjoy. I like the challenge of that and just trying to be a bit clever out on course. Trying different things and being creative is always interesting.
I think the format suits me nicely, and Molly also, which is very good so we work well together, and can prepare really well for the races and strategy out on course.
Extreme E: Looking ahead to Scotland, are you confident of another strong showing at the Hydro X Prix?
KH: I am hopeful that we are going to be up there fighting for wins and podiums once again in Scotland. You never know where the others will be, but I think we will do well. I am hoping we have some strong days out on course where we will be where we want to be with the ODYSSEY 21. Our approach will remain unchanged, too. We will try to do what we did in the last race and prepare as well as we can with our driving, and also when we get to the location and analyse the track, so I think we can be confident in a strong showing so long as we prepare well.
There’s no reason to believe otherwise. We will just do our thing and hope that ends up meaning podiums for us again.
Extreme E: You’ve actually visited the site as part of the race launch! What did you make of it?
KH: From what I saw at the race launch, the location looks really cool! I think it is definitely one of the most interesting and certainly one of the strongest in terms of sustainability that we can showcase at an Extreme E race. It is incredible what is being planned for the future at the race locations in terms of renewable energy and it is going to be exciting to follow that journey.
Like most Extreme E courses I am sure there will be lots of jumps and difficult parts to navigate out on track, but we are really looking forward to it. I think it will be spectacular.
Extreme E: Will it be the most challenging yet and is it comparable to any other location the Championship has visited?
KH: Although we haven’t seen the track yet, it won’t take all of us long to get up to speed during race week to understand the small details that will really boost performance. I think it will be challenging, especially when it comes to elevation changes, but we are all really excited for the Hydro X Prix. Also, the courses are much shorter compared to Season 1, so it is a little bit different in terms of getting familiar with the course and terrain.
We will be prepared for whatever the weekend throws at us and we’re hoping for another strong result!
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-04-13 St. Helena arrives in Scotland with one month to go until Hydro X Prix
Extreme E’s floating centrepiece, the St. Helena, has today dropped anchor in Scotland for off-loading in preparation for the series’ much-anticipated return to the UK for the Hydro X Prix next month.
The championship’s floating centrepiece has docked in Greenock to unload the freight and Extreme E ODYSSEY 21s on board as preparations and anticipation grows for the series’ debut in Scotland on May 13-14. She will then be based in Troon throughout the build up to and duration of the Hydro X Prix.
The series’ equipment departed Saudi Arabia following March’s Desert X Prix double-header in NEOM. Passing through the Suez Canal, Egypt, the St. Helena has travelled across the Mediterranean, stopping in Algeciras, Spain, before the final leg to Scotland.
Amongst the all-important cargo to be unloaded, including the fleet of ODYSSEY 21 electric race cars; plus all the race freight which includes the temporary structure based paddock of team garages, Continental tyres, and all operational equipment required to set up the race site in former Scottish opencast coal mine at Glenmuckloch.
Alejandro Agag, CEO and Founder of Extreme E, said: “It’s fantastic to see the St. Helena’s safe arrival in Scotland, which marks a huge milestone in our preparations for Extreme E’s next round – the Hydro X Prix.
“The UK is where Extreme E’s global voyage began and although we are an international championship it is always important to return to our roots. Racing in Scotland is going to be unique experience with a backdrop and setting like no other so far in the championship.
“It is going to be an incredible event – with a breathtaking landscape behind some of the fastest drivers in the world battling it out wheel-to-wheel, as well as telling the story of how climate change, and solutions to combat the crisis such as the transformation of this former opencast coal mine into an important source of renewable energy, can be right on our doorstep.”
SamuelHoward©-IG-11The repurposing of the St. Helena has been a huge project for Extreme E. Since her purchase in 2018, she has had a complete internal refit. In addition to building a science laboratory, there are 62 cabins on board which can sleep up to 165 people, two lounges, an 80-seater restaurant, a 100-seater exterior deck, an 80-seater presentation area plus capacity to carry 90 20-foot shipping containers.
The ship uses low-energy LED lights, has low-water consumption bathroom fittings and chairs made from recycled plastic bottles, collected from the Mediterranean. There is also a hydroponic system on board in the kitchens which enables the Chef to grow the ship’s own herbs and garnishes.
As for the action on course, the Championship first raced in the UK during its maiden season in 2021, tackling a formidable course located in the British Ministry of Defence Base, at Bovington in Dorset. Now the Hydro X Prix in Scotland offers an exciting return home for the sport for purpose series, as it delivers its third season.
Racing in Dumfries and Galloway will create the exciting opportunity to highlight climate issues and solutions that are not just global, but also right on our doorstep. The racetrack lends into this aim, as it is located in the restored former opencast coal mine, which is about to undergo the next phase of its major transformation into a Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH) plant and wind farm.
Moreover, only 18 months ago world leaders met in Glasgow for COP26, aiming to secure global net zero by the middle of this century. As an off-road rally series which focuses on the promotion of electric vehicles and clean energy innovations, the old mine is the perfect natural amphitheatre to showcase the necessary industry transition to move from fossil fuels to clean energy futures. It will also impactfully act as an example of the important role water can play in future renewables and healthy conservation.
The Hydro X Prix is the second round of Extreme E Season 3. The championship is joint-led for the first time by Veloce Racing and ACCIONA Sainz XE Team, who both secured their maiden wins during the Desert X Prix.
With 46 points, Veloce Racing and ACCIONA Sainz XE hold the lead over nearest rivals Rosberg X Racing, who sit in third on 31 points, followed by X44 Vida Carbon Racing (23 points) and Chip Ganassi (15 points) in fourth and fifth, respectively.
The racing action will be best viewed live on STV and ITV, in the UK, over both Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 May to enable the best views. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-31 Mattias Ekström on his return to the championship
Mattias, welcome back to Extreme E! Can you tell us how you got the call to race for the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team?
Mattias Ekström: The week after Carlos had his incident and got hurt is when he asked me if I would be interested, and we started chatting about it. It took a couple of weeks and then we agreed and finally I arrived in Saudi Arabia very happy to go racing again!
XE: What are your memories of driving in Extreme E in Season 1?
Ekström: We had a couple of good races in Season 1, but we also had some issues. Mainly though there was some very cool locations and a lot of adventures, especially with the first event in Saudi Arabia which was pretty dramatic. It was in general a season full of excitement.
Carlos is very persuasive. I respect Carlos a lot and I must say it was a lot of fun to have him with us at the first double-header and hopefully he can come with us to other races as well.
XE: Do you feel the championship has changed a lot since your last race? Has anything stood out and impressed you?
Ekström: The girls and how fast they drive. The girls have really picked up the pace and I see that trend continuing as the series progresses.
Secondly, I would say the cars have also improved quite a bit and Extreme E has grown in the technical department since the series launched.
Thirdly, I think the new format is much more exciting. I prefer the new set-up with five cars – it will have the heartbeat up and continue to entertain people.
XE: Does the car feel different since you last drove it in 2021?
Ekström: The biggest difference this season with the cars is the steering. The car is still very kicky in the jumps, but the dampers have improved which helps a lot in the jumps.
XE: What’s the key to success in this new racing format?
Ekström: I think success in this very much depends on who you race against, and which start line you have into Turn 1. You have to try and read the situation as well as you can with the drivers on the grid.
With so many races happening across a weekend the track changes a lot, too. I think I have learned so much about driving in ruts and sand over the past two years in the Dakar Rally. Driving in ruts might look easy, but it requires a bit more if you want to master it. I'm not scared of ruts anymore – I actually enjoy them!
I always expect really rough racing in this series. There are a lot of ‘winner mentality’ drivers here - nobody wants to lose, everybody wants to win. But I think that's what's motor racing is about, especially for me. We all want to win, and I think with this format you stimulate that even more.
XE: You were on the podium in Round 1. Tell us about your first race back in the series.
Ekström: We had a good day on the first day of racing - we were second in Q1 and we won Q2 so I think you can be fair and say that we are a good pair and we have good pace. We ended up second in the round and also had the fastest Continental Traction Challenge time so it was a very positive day.
XE: You and Laia Sanz went on to get a maiden victory for the team in Round 2. What did Carlos have to say to you on the podium?
Ekström: For me, before the start of any Heat when he comes to grab me, it feels so special. I can really feel he wants me to do well, to show for himself, but also for the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team. Carlos’ way of treating me is like my dad used to treat me, and that means a lot.
Extreme E returns to action with the Hydro X Prix in Scotland. The racing action will be best viewed live on STV and ITV, in the UK, over both Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 May to enable the best views. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-30 Extreme E reveals plans to race in former Scottish coal mine
Extreme E, the sport for purpose electric off-road rallying series, has today confirmed that the former Glenmuckloch opencast coal mine site in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, will host its next race event, the Hydro X Prix, on 13-14 May 2023.
With legendary motorsport names involved in the series including Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg, Jenson Button, NEOM McLaren, Andretti and Carl Cox, the restored former coal mine, which is about to undergo the next phase of its major transformation into a Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH) plant and wind farm, will provide a poignant backdrop for the sport which uses its platform to raise awareness of climate change and global solutions.
Just 18 months ago world leaders met in Glasgow for COP26, aiming to secure global net zero by the middle of this century. As an off-road rally series which focuses on the promotion of electric vehicles and clean energy innovations, the old mine is the perfect natural amphitheatre to showcase the necessary industry transition to move from fossil fuels to clean energy futures. It will also impactfully act as an example of the important role water can play in future renewables and healthy conservation.
Alongside far flung racing destinations which have so far included Greenland, the Atacama Desert, Saudi Arabia and Senegal, on the west coast of Africa, the Hydro X Prix in Scotland represents an exciting return home for the sport for purpose series as it delivers its third season, creating the opportunity to highlight climate issues and solutions that are not just global, but also right on our doorstep.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “Extreme E is a unique sport for purpose racing series. We are thrilled to be headed to Scotland in May for the Hydro X Prix, and we could not have found a more perfect racing site than the former Glenmuckloch coal mine.
“Extreme E uses its racing platform to tell inspirational stories of global locations on the forefront of climate issues. Here in Scotland, our race site will play homage to the much needed transition of an old coal mine which is being given a new and exciting lease of life as a hydro-project which will provide a fully renewable energy source for the region for centuries to come.
“Not only will this site provide one of the most dramatic and extreme race courses we have seen in our global journey, it will tell a poignant story about transition and the changing of courses that the energy industry and communities must all take if we are to succeed in the fight against climate change.”
Extreme E offers an exciting wheel to wheel racing format and also provides a world-first gender-equal motorsport platform, which sees men and women drivers race equally for success.
Catie Munnings, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, said: “It was really exciting to be in Scotland to kick off the countdown to the Hydro X Prix in May. It’s always great to have a home event, and racing is Scotland is something I am really looking forward to.
“There’s always something unique about every Extreme E course but racing in a location like this which is close to home will be something special for me and the team.
“I've heard the track will be a combination of both fast sections on grass as well as drops into a quarry which will be really interesting to see. The Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E team have a lot to build on and we are more hungry than ever to achieve a result that we deserve.”
Jenson Button, JBXE Team Owner, said: “It is brilliant that we will be returning to the UK for Extreme E Season 3 and we are really looking forward to the next round of the championship in Scotland. There is such a passion for motorsport in the UK, and it is great that the series is returning to its roots once again.
“I’ve been lucky enough to race on UK soil many times throughout my career and those memories will always be incredibly special to me, while the last time the series raced in the UK JBXE were able to pick up a podium – and so we will be aiming for similar at the Hydro X Prix.
“Racing in Scotland will provide a totally new challenge for our team, but I am confident we will be able to kick-start our season there.”
Anna Fergusson, Estate Director of Buccleuch’s Queensberry Estate, home of Glenmuckloch said: “Hosting Extreme E is a wonderful opportunity for Buccleuch and the local community. Their commitment to the environment flows through everything they do, and using the sport to highlight local and international nature-based projects enables engagement on so many levels. For me, personally, recognising gender equality sends an incredibly positive message, which is important to recognise.”
The project, which secured funding in 2022, will enhance and aid the balancing of the UK power system, enabling the integration of more renewable generated energy into the country.
Once constructed, the Pump Storage Hydropower plant will have a capacity which can be delivered at a rate of 210 MW per hour, providing eight hours of storage capacity. 1MW is enough to supply the average power requirement for 2,000 homes for an hour Utilising two 105 MW reversible hydro-turbines, the site will store power during periods of excess energy supply and release stored energy at times of peak demand.
The wind farm being built in conjunction with the plant will comprise of eight 4.2 MW turbines and will have the ability, via a direct connection, to power the Pump Storage Hydropower plant.
Extreme E will also embark on a community led project of its own, as part of its Legacy Programme, to implement a multi-stage project, focused on mitigating climate change effects on local salmon stocks. From the impactful re-planting of over a thousand trees, to using innovative technologies being implemented by Official Technology Partner Vodafone Business to monitor water quality and temperatures, Extreme E will focus on a long-term transformation of the River Nith area that will protect the salmon stocks so important to local industries.
On the sporting side, the racing in Scotland will be as exciting as ever with a course currently being designed that will include the natural obstacles of the Scottish terrain while putting the all-electric ODYSSEY 21 vehicle to the test.
Extreme E’s floating centrepiece, the St. Helena ship, which was built in Aberdeen and went on to provide a vital lifeline to the island of St Helena for over 30 years, will arrive in Glasgow in mid April to start unloading its freight and vehicles ahead of the race event.
Being a sport which takes its impact seriously, many measures are in place to keep Extreme E’s event footprint to a minimum. These measures include capping the number of team personnel and staff who can attend the event, remote working, and crucially, not having spectators on site.
The racing action will be best viewed live on STV and ITV, in the UK, over both Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 May to enable the best views. Outside of the UK, please visit here for broadcaster details.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-28 A tale of two halves for ABT CUPRA XE in opening double-header
t was a weekend of ups and downs for ABT CUPRA XE at the 2023 Desert X Prix, as the team narrowly missed a spot on the podium in the Round 2 Grand Final, despite a damaging crash during Round 1.
Off the back of their maiden victory in the Season 2 Finale in Uruguay, the opening race weekend of Extreme E Season 3 was not without its problems for ABT CUPRA XE. After a damaging roll in the first round’s Redemption Race, the team faced a time-pressured night shift to get the car ready in time for the next day of racing.
Nasser Al-Attiyah started the season’s campaign in Qualifying 1 Heat 1 on the Saturday. The Qatari fell to the back of the pack after contact with Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E. However, a roll for Andretti Altawkilat after the Switch Zone meant the team were able to climb the order to finish fourth.
While Qualifying 2 Heat 2 was a much more measured drive for the team, with flashes of speed keeping them in the mix throughout, Al-Attiyah and team-mate Klara Andersson were unable to make up for the mistakes made in Q1 and had to settle for a spot in the Redemption Race.
The Redemption Race was a chance to win some much-needed points, with Al-Attiyah getting a clean jump off the line to chase down NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust in first. However, the five-time Dakar winner rolled following an attempt to pass the leader, forcing an early DNF for the team.
The subsequent task to recover the team’s ODYSSEY 21 was an arduous one, as it soon became clear that the nature of the repairs meant ABT CUPRA XE would have to switch to the championship car for Round 2.
It was an impressive shift and demonstration of true teamwork to get the ODYSSEY 21 prepared to race in the second half of the double-header, with Extreme E’s new race format offering a much-needed haul of points for the team.
The promise of a fresh start on Sunday initially looked at risk, when ABT CUPRA XE faced a 30-second penalty for switching to the replacement car in their first Qualifying Heat of the day.
To make the best of this poor starting position, the team chose a bold strategy, choosing to hang back and take on the Continental Traction Challenge in clear air. The tactics paid off as Andersson and Al-Attiyah secured the quickest time through the sector and improved their chances of reaching the Grand Final despite a P4 finish in the Heat.
This momentum was carried through to Qualifying 2, where Al-Attiyah’s aggressive overtakes meant he entered in Switch Zone in P1, 16.9 seconds clear of the pack. Andersson took over from her teammate to defend the advantage all the way to the finish. That Qualifying 2 win meant a sensational entry into the Round 2 Grand Final.
With an offset strategy the ABT CUPRA XE duo almost staged another brilliant comeback to claim a top three finish, but had to settle for fourth after missing out on a podium by just half a second.
Nasser Al-Attiyah, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “I will keep the weekend in good memory – especially after everything that happened on Saturday. Our comeback on Sunday with a win in the Qualifying race and a strong performance in the Grand Final was at least a small reward for the guys’ efforts. We learned a lot and will be racing for trophies and wins next time.”
Klara Andersson, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “The fact that we were able to race at all on Sunday is a small miracle and only thanks to the mega guys in the garage. We fought for a podium finish in the Grand Final until the last metre, but unfortunately it wasn’t quite enough. We’re still proud of our weekend and comeback and now come to the races in Scotland even hungrier for a win.”
With two races down, ABT CUPRA XE sits sixth in the championship standings with 15 points total. It will be all to play for once more when the Extreme E Season 3 action resumes on 13-14 May in Scotland.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-17 Consistency is key for Rosberg X Racing as they bid for second Extreme E title
Despite Rosberg X Racing (RXR) making an impressive start to the season at the Desert X Prix, the prized top-spot on the podium remained elusive. For drivers Johan Kristoffersson and Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, however, two third place finishes and a strong haul of points from Saudi Arabia sets RXR up confidently for the remaining eight races of 2023.
Extreme E Season 3 promised to be the most closely fought in the series thus far and Nico Rosberg’s RXR did not have it all their own way in NEOM – having won on the championship’s two visits to Saudi Arabia.
In Round 1, Qualifying Heat 1 resulted in a shaky start, with RXR finishing in fourth place, before rallying to complete an impressive comeback in Heat 2 – finishing second to bag the crucial points required to secure a spot in the first Grand Final of Season 3.
An incredible first corner from Kristoffersson, where he overtook four cars to lead after Turn One, set the tone and some strong defensive driving to hold off Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen ensured RXR led the field at the Switch Zone.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky took over and crucially maintained the lead to bring the car home first, however Nico Rosberg’s outfit were soon to be denied that all-important first win of the campaign.
A misjudgement by the Swede in the Slow Zone following an incident which left GMC Hummer EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s RJ Anderson stricken ODYSSEY 21 stranded out on course resulted in a 136-second penalty by race control for over speeding and gaining an advantage.
This ultimately led to Veloce Racing claiming their maiden victory and RXR dropping down to third place retrospectively when the penalty was applied.
Johan Kristoffersson, RXR, said: “In the end, third place in Round One was a good result. We began the day with a tricky start position in Q1. Q2 was better, and I had a good start in the Grand Final. I had a plan and strategy and managed to execute it. I tried to be safe during the first lap, trying not to make any mistakes as it’s difficult to overtake.
“During the second lap, I tried to open up some breathing space for Mikaela. Unfortunately, there was a miscommunication with the slow zone, so the penalty meant we couldn’t take home the win. Of course, It hurts a bit not to win when you finish first, but that’s how it is.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, Rosberg X Racing, said: “Johan did an amazing start, and the pace was good. Unfortunately, I had issues understanding where the slow zone was regarding the Waypoints. But the team has done an amazing job, and it was a good start to the season.”
Despite the setback, the all-new racing format meant that RXR had a second chance to fight for the win in Round 2. They certainly set a strong tone, winning their Q1 Heat and securing second spot in Q2 to comfortably reach their second Grand Final in Saudi Arabia.
After an initial false start in Q1, Kristoffersson delivered a superb start once more by timing his ENOWA Hyperdrive usage perfectly to surge to the front of the pack. After handing over to Åhlin-Kottulinsky, a nail-biting two laps ensued, with RXR finishing in P1.
Q2 saw contact between RXR, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE and ABT CUPRA XE team following a feisty start. Despite this, Åhlin-Kottulinsky fiercely stood her ground to enter the switch zone in third. Kristoffersson then used his ENOWA Hyperdrive on the shoreline straight, passing X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell to finish the Heat in second.
The Grand Final saw RXR finish in third for the second time in two days – with the team embroiled in a race-long battle with Veloce Racing for second place. It was the British outfit who came out on top in that battle, with Kristoffersson and Åhlin-Kottulinsky settling for third and banking a crucial podium.
Although the team would have wanted the victory, securing 31 championship points and two podiums from the first event ensures RXR remain poised to continue their success in the upcoming races.
With eight more races, the Extreme E Season 1 champions will have plenty of opportunities to close the gap to the top of the standings.
Kristoffersson said: “Both me and Mikaela had good starts this weekend, and we had a great race craft, which was key to the result this weekend. This terrain isn’t mine or Mikaela's preferable surface compared to many of the other races that are coming so, considering that, two podiums are a good result.
“Even though we weren’t always the fastest on track this weekend, we still collected good points.
“So many strong teams didn’t make it to the Grand Final during this X Prix, so we will take the points, regroup, and analyse this result with the team ahead of Scotland and come back well-prepared.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky added: “I felt like this wasn’t my strongest weekend as I struggled quite a bit to understand the terrain, but all things considered, I’m very happy to bring home two P3s! The team did a great job with the car, and I’m very happy to have Johan as my teammate. He’s done an amazing job and was super quick. I’m looking forward to Scotland and the next doubleheader.”
Kimmo Liimatainen, Rosberg X Racing Team Principal, concluded: “Obviously, we always aim for P1, but all in all, it was a solid and clean weekend. With a double podium and good points in the bag, we will go home and analyse what we can do better and find more pace.
"I’m optimistic that we can strike back in Scotland.”
You can see how RXR fare in their attempts to strike back in Scotland at the next round of Extreme E Season 3 on 13-14 May.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-16 Focus shifts to Scotland after challenging opening round for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E
As the first race of Season 3 got underway, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E suffered a Desert X Prix beset by bad luck – with the team coming away from Saudi Arabia with just five points from the opening round.
The team’s weekend had started well with Catie Munnings and Timmy Hansen looking to convert the promise shown last season into podium positions.
On Friday, the driver duo delivered strong performances in both Free Practice sessions, collecting valuable data about the new off-road course and finished second in both outings.
However, when the racing got underway is when the trouble began for the Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E team. In Qualifying 1, Munnings chased Carl Cox Motorsport’s Christine GZ hard for second place – but in attempting an overtake bounced on an unforgiving bulge in the terrain, unfortunately rolling her ODYSSEY 21.
It was then all hands-on deck for the Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E team in the blistering desert heat, as they impressively got their car onto the start line for their Qualifying 2 Heat. After negotiating a difficult start, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E took fourth and a place in the Round 1 Redemption Race.
However, once more they were unable to demonstrate their earlier Practice pace in the Redemption Race as the team suffered another roll, this time with Hansen behind the wheel, ensuring a tenth place finish from the first round of the new season.
Catie Munnings, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E team, said: “The new race format leaves a fair bit to chance, and we’ve been unlucky to start the season this way. My incident from the first qualifying session meant we started from grid slot five and the visibility was so poor for parts of the lap. It also made it difficult to find any rhythm and pull back some time to the car ahead.
“Overall, Round 1 was not reflective of our pace from the Free Practice sessions. I know that we are capable of a good result if everything aligns for us, so that’s what we’ll focus on now.
Timmy Hansen, Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E team, said: "Round 1 was probably one of the worst race days I’ve had in many years. Two rolls in one day pretty much sums up how things went for us. It just wasn’t our day today. In Extreme E, the margins are so tight, meaning one incident may cause bigger problems for the rest of your day."
Round 2 offered a chance at a comeback with plenty of racing and points opportunities on the table.
Hansen had a great launch off the line in Qualifying 1 and coming into the Switch Zone the team clocked the fastest time and maintained the lead. However, late overtakes by Veloce Racing and X44 Vida Carbon Racing ensured the team finished third in their Heat.
Qualifying 2 also showed promise, yet an unfortunate landing from a jump after exiting the Switch Zone ensured yet another roll for Hansen – and the team’s third across the weekend. Fortunately, their ODYSSEY 21 had only suffered minor damage, but resultant incident ensured the Swede and Munnings would have to settle for another Redemption Race for Round 2.
In a scrappy final race of the weekend for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E team, they were able to finish third in the Redemption Race, and eighth overall, to conclude what had been a frustrating opening X Prix of 2023.
Munnings added: "The Redemption Race in Round 2 was more like the Crazy Race! I took over the car, but there were yellow zones and cars off from incidents ahead. From the position that we had after losing a place in the Switch Zone, there was not much I could do in the conditions but, hopefully, there will be some valuable data from the race that we can use and learn more about the car.
“We know we’re far more capable of what we’ve been able to show in Saudi Arabia. We always have to look at the positives and, as a team, we’re strong at doing so. We know we have the pace, so we’ve just got to be able to convert it now.”
Hansen concluded: “I think we had the pace when there was a clear track but, unfortunately, we weren’t able to convert that into any results. We had a couple of crashes that cost us on both days, which is not how we were hoping to start the season.
“Nonetheless, it’s been a great event in Saudi Arabia – seeing everyone from Altawkilat and getting the season started in this stunning location. We’ve got a good team behind us who have been with us since Season 1, so we’ll keep our heads down and focus on Scotland next on the calendar.”
Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E will have the opportunity to bounce back at the next Extreme E round in Scotland on 13-14 May.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-14 Two new winners at Season 3 opener hints at closest championship yet
Veloce Racing and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team competitive season yet in the series, with several teams showing signs of challenging for wins in 2023.
Having claimed just one podium from their first two Extreme E campaigns, for Veloce Racing the Desert X Prix in NEOM was the culmination of a remarkable turnaround.
Having finished 2022 tenth in the overall standings, the British outfit top the Extreme E standings at the end of the first X Prix double-header having taken a debut victory and a deserved second place from their desert excursions in Saudi Arabia.
For drivers Molly Taylor and Kevin Hansen, their start to life at Veloce Racing could not have been much stronger.
Molly Taylor, Veloce Racing, said: “As weekends go it couldn’t have gone much better. Everyone in the team has done such a great job and I don’t think I have ever had so much fun along the way.
“A victory, a double podium and being inside the top two in every session is not easy to achieve, particularly in this championship, so we can all be delighted with the performance and look forward to the rest of the season.”
The duo made their debuts for Veloce Racing at the Season 2 finale in Punta del Este, Uruguay, where they became the first team outside of X44 Vida Carbon Racing and Rosberg X Racing (RXR) to finish as top Qualifier.
It is evident that such momentum has been carried into the 2023, with the team aiming to ensure their success in Saudi Arabia is not a flash in the pan.
Kevin Hansen, Veloce Racing, said: “We have shown that we can lead from the front, but we can also go wheel-to-wheel for position, as both Molly and I have made up places during the weekend. Both of us believe so much in what the engineers and mechanics are doing, so we feel so safe when we get in the car. We believe in what we are going to drive, and I think that is also giving some results.
“We know we have the right package in place, and we look forward to taking this confidence to Scotland in May.”
Taylor added: “I've obviously been out of the car for a little while – so you need confidence in yourself that you can deliver. But the team have been so supportive and brilliant at bringing the best out of every aspect that we look into.
“Our Team Principal Luc [Alphand] knows what it takes to win. Having that faith in someone like that, who's got the scores on the board, who knows what you're feeling, and knows how to translate that into results, I think that's a real advantage for us.”
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team join Veloce Racing at the head of the Extreme E Season 3 standings with their debut win in Round 2 at the first X Prix of the year.
Although a contender throughout their time in Extreme E, their maiden victory had been elusive up until the second leg in NEOM, where Laia Sanz and new team-mate Mattias Ekström crossed the line first to secure that long awaited win.
Having been so close to victory on a number of occasions, Sanz and Ekström hope that this victory will take the team from front-runner to championship contender in the series.
Although unable to drive for the team currently due to injury, the Spanish outfit still has talismanic Carlos Sainz Snr. in their corner this term.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: "Finally! I think we did a great job. Not only this weekend, but these two years with Carlos [Sainz Snr.] and all the team. I think he really deserved this win and they deserve this win and I'm super happy also with Mattias [Ekström] who has helped me so much and played a huge part in the good results in Saudi Arabia.
“This victory is for all the people on the team because they truly deserve it for all the work we have done to be in this position, especially for Carlos. I learned so much with him as my teammate and it is fantastic that he is with us here, helping us and giving advice.
"Look how difficult it was to get to the Final that we won, though. For us, it was really close. We felt we were strong throughout but then you can see the other teams performing well and being strong – it will be a long season.
“We can feel proud, but we must keep up the good work. To win the championship we need to avoid big mistakes.”
Mattias Ekström, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “It's always great to be racing and to be on the podium, but I think this one is a little different. It was a late c-all for me to join the team, and I'm really happy that Carlos [Sainz Snr.] called me and trusted me to step in for him.
“During the weekend, when you are not driving, it can be difficult to keep looking at data and finding the motivation throughout the days to look for details. But Carlos can do the same thing five times and he never get bored. He can repeat, repeat, repeat – that’s so impressive and crucial to our performance as a team.
“We have had strong pace so far this season, though, with two very positive days of racing. We can be happy with a lot of things in this championship to date.”
Such strong weekends from the aforementioned debut winners have indicated just how competitive it will be in Season 3, and that X44 Vida Carbon Racing and RXR may not have it all their own way in their pursuit of a second Extreme E championship.
The pioneering series now looks towards its next race weekend in Scotland (13-14 May), which will be just as closely fought as the opening round in the desert of Saudi Arabia.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-12 Carlos Sainz's team claim long-awaited victory at Desert X Prix Round 2
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team secured their first ever win in Extreme E with a dominant run in the Grand Final, finishing ahead of Round 1 winners Veloce Racing in second and Rosberg X Racing (RXR) in third on the sands of NEOM, Saudi Arabia.
Laia Sanz and Mattias Ekström, supported on-site by team owner Carlos Sainz Snr., dominated the race from start to finish, establishing a comfortable lead as Veloce Racing and RXR fought over the runners-up spot.
In fourth place were ABT CUPRA XE, having recovered well from a crash in Round 1’s Redemption Race to make it to the Grand Final second time around.
No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing finished fifth, marking two Grand Finals out of two for the team’s new driver-pairing of RJ Anderson and Extreme E newcomer Amanda Sorensen.
Winners of the Redemption Race were X44 Vida Carbon Racing. Having tied fifth in Qualifying with eventual Round 2 winners, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, Fraser McConnell and Cristina Gutiérrez lost out on a spot in the Grand Final due to a slower time in the Continental Traction Challenge.
X44 Vida Carbon Racing came back swinging, ending Round 2 with the quickest time in the Traction Challenge on their way to victory in the Redemption Race, securing a valuable 10 points in the championship battle.
The Desert X Prix double-header delivered two maiden victories, with wins for Veloce Racing and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team. What’s more, with the Round 2 podium featuring the same top three teams from Round 1, they will be the ones to watch as the series heads into the next X Prix weekend in Scotland on May 13-14.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “I am very happy, both for myself and the team. We clinched our maiden win in Extreme E! I want to thank Mattias for giving me the car with such a good advantage over the rest of the field. I did a good stint and was able to keep the distance, so I am more than satisfied.
"This victory is for all the people on the team because they truly deserve it for all the work we have done to be in this position, especially for Carlos Sainz. It was an honor that he called me to ask if I wanted to race with him in Extreme E and I am trying to pay back his trust with all my motivation and my willingness to improve even further. I learned so much with him as my teammate and it is fantastic that he is with us here, helping us and giving advice. Today we can feel proud, but we must keep up the good work.”
Mattias Ekström, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “We had designed a strategy for the Grand Final and I executed it as well as I could. I am really happy that it turned out to be fruitful. It is always easier to race in front and have a clear view in front than being behind another car and having to deal with all the dust. I really enjoyed every corner. Laia drove very well and managed the gap perfectly. It is a good victory for the team.
"It is also very special for Carlos. We have been teammates at the Dakar Rally for the past two years, but ever since I joined ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team he has been really caring. He has taught me many things, as a father would. He is a great guy and it makes me really happy that we can dedicate this victory to him.”
Carlos Sainz Snr., ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, added: “I am really happy that the first victory of ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team is finally here because we have worked a lot of time to achieve it. Laia and Mattias were spectacular and they already showed that they are one of the strongest driver pairings in the Championship.
"We have grown steadily and so have our results. Starting the Championship in this fashion is a good sign. We must keep up the good work and I hope the team is able to keep the same trend in the next race because our goal is to fight for the Championship. Today is also a day to be thankful to our sponsors, like Acciona, Santander Private Banking, and Asterra because without them it would be really difficult to achieve a success like this.”
Grand Final
As the top five teams from Qualifying took on the Grand Final in Extreme E, Ekström set the tone for the race as he charged into the lead for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team.
Behind the Swede, Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen dug deep to get ahead of RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson to take second place, as the RXR machine bounced sideways through the dips in the course.
Just as the front three got some breathing space from No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Anderson and ABT CUPRA XE’s Klara Andersson in fourth and fifth, respectively, Hansen accidentally hit the pit limiter. The Veloce Racing ODYSSEY 21 dropped back into third while Hansen recovered from the sudden loss of speed.
Ekström continued to extend his lead for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team as the other teams lost time tussling for position, with Kristoffersson defending hard against Hansen until the Veloce Racing driver took a wider line and completed the overtake on RXR for second place.
Following the driver change, which saw Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor and RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky door-to-door as they exited the Switch Zone, it was a comfortable run for Sanz in the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team car.
The Spaniard kept a cool head to complete a clean run, while Taylor brought her ODYSSEY 21 home in second for Veloce Racing.
RXR’s Åhlin-Kottulinsky fended off Nasser Al-Attiyah in the final stages of the race to claim the third step on the podium, with ABT CUPRA XE finishing fourth after Al-Attiyah got past No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Sorensen.
Molly Taylor, Veloce Racing, said: "It was a really cool weekend for us and a great way to start the new season! For me coming back in – I’ve obviously been out of the car for a little while – so you like to have confidence and belief in yourself but then you’ve obviously got to get out there and prove yourself.
"The new format means there’s more racing which is a good thing and more fun for sure. We’ve seen how close everyone is. The teams that were on the podium were fast but there were plenty of teams that were also very fast and not on the podium."
Kevin Hansen, Veloce Racing, said: "It has been great to kick off the season like this and to get two podiums to start the year. For sure it was a big challenge, and the ruts were almost the same height as the car at some points in the finals but we managed to come through.
"It was a treat to start this way but there were the same three teams up there on the podium so we can expect all the others to improve as well before the next race and we need to do the same."
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, Rosberg X Racing, said: "Getting a double podium on a weekend like this is obviously great, but it has also been a tough weekend. I found it hard to pick up pace and be in there, but I’ve really been struggling to improve and to get better.
"We are happy with P3 today and, of course, it was a shame about yesterday, but it’s so important just to collect points. There are so many great teams out there, so to be in the Grand Final every time and keep collecting those points is what is going to get you the championship in the end."
Johan Kristoffersson, Rosberg X Racing, said: "The track was very challenging but was rewarding if you were prepared to take risks. In the final today, I was a little bit too cautious and that allowed Kevin [Hansen] to pass me, but I think the weekend wasn’t too bad.
"It always feels a little bit like you left something on the table, especially yesterday and maybe today with that overtaking from Kevin, but in the end you know with the new format and tricky start conditions from both Q1’s Saturday and Sunday, to score important points is good."
Redemption Race
The remaining five teams fought it out in the Redemption Race in pursuit of those all important sixth to tenth place championship points.
Carl Cox Motorsport looked to have taken an early lead in the race as Timo Scheider pushed his ODYSSEY 21 to the limit, bouncing round the outside of the opening right-hander. X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell, however, stuck to his trusted inside line to jump to the front of the pack.
Behind them was Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E’s Timmy Hansen, followed by NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust in fourth, and JBXE’s Heikki Kovalainen in fifth, until Foust pulled out onto a wider line and cut back in to overtake Hansen for third place.
Scheider kept just two seconds adrift of X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s McConnell as the German ran in second for Carl Cox Motorsport. Meanwhile the front three pulled away from Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E and JBXE, and as they approached the Switch Zone Scheider was late on the brakes, making contact with McConnell as they entered.
Carl Cox Motorsport managed to get the better of X44 Vida Carbon Racing at the driver change, as Christine GZ emerged ahead of Cristina Gutiérrez. The X44 Vida Carbon Racing driver soon retook the lead, however, as the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team continued a trouble free run behind.
The same cannot be said for Carl Cox Motorsport’s GZ and JBXE’s Hedda Hösas, though, as both suffered a roll during their stint. GZ was able to crawl home in fourth, handing second and third place to NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team and Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E, respectively, while JBXE ended their Desert X Prix with a DNF.
Results:
Grand Final:
1. ACCIONA SAINZ XE Team 11:10.821
2. Veloce Racing +5.527
3. Rosberg X Racing +7.429
4. ABT CUPRA XE +7.987
5. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +22.321
Redemption Race:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing 11:10.132
2. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +10.150
3. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +33.296
4. Carl Cox Motorsport +2:43.534 (PENALISED)
5. JBXE DNF
Championship Standings:
1. Veloce Racing: 46 points
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 46 points
3. Rosberg X Racing: 31 points
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 23 points
5. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 21 points
6. ABT CUPRA XE: 15 points
7. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 14 points
8. Carl Cox Motorsport: 8 points
9. JBXE: 5 points
10. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 5 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-12 Två pallplatser i Extreme E-premiären
Två tredjeplatser blev facit för Rosberg X Racing i premiären av Extreme E i Saudiarabien. Johan Kristoffersson och Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky körde stabilt och undvek misstag i den tuffa terrängen vid Röda havet.
- När vi får smälta det här kommer vi nog tycka att det var ganska bra, säger Johan.
Kristoffersson och Åhlin-Kottulinsky fick en tung start i lördagens race med en fjärdeplats i sitt första kvalificeringsheat.
- Vi fick en dålig lottning och startade i ett svårt läge. Jag tycker vi hade speeden på fria träningen, men det spelar ingen roll om man inte startar på rätt ställe, säger Johan.
Bättre gick det i andra heatet, där en andraplats räckte till sista platsen i finalen. Även där med ett knepigt utgångsläge.
- Vi hamnade längst ut igen. Jag hade valt en plan och satsade allt på ett kort. Det gick vägen, berättar Johan, som mycket elegant tog sig in från sitt ytterspår och svepte förbi samtliga motståndare och upp i ledning.
- Därifrån försökte jag bara ta bilen säkert hem till Mikaela. Det var ganska slagigt och svårt, men jag kunde i alla fall öppna upp ett gap på några sekunder.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky tog sedan RXR-bilen över mållinjen som etta, vilket skulle ha betytt tre raka premiärsegrar för teamet i Extreme E. Men det stora segerjublet uteblev. RXR hade överskridit hastigheten i byteszonen under Mikaelas runda och fick en bestraffning som betydde nerflyttning till tredje plats.
- Det blev en miss i kommunikationen där. Tråkigt, men vi slutade trea och fick med oss många poäng, så det var ändå bra, menar Johan.
Till skillnad från första dagen inleddes andra dagens tävling på allra bästa sätt. RXR tog hem Q1 efter att Johan än en gång levererat en suverän start från ytterspår. Den här gången hittade han vinnarspåret längst ut och svepte hela fältet.
Mikaela skötte resten av jobbet och ordnade maximala tio kvalpoäng till RXR.
- Gott att vi kunde gå in i Q2 med att redan ha säkrat tio poäng, tycker Kristoffersson.
I andra kvalheatet var det Åhlin-Kottulinsky som inledde. Hon följde teamkamratens exempel och levererade ett stycke startmagi fram till ledning. Denna fick hon dock släppa efter tuff närkontakt från Nasser al-Attiyah, men läget var ändå bra för Johan när han gav sig ut och säkrade andraplatsen.
Med kvalplaceringarna 1-2 summerade RXR en andraplats totalt i kvalet, men hamnade åter en gång långt ut i startspåren.
- Jag fick en bra start där också, men det går inte att göra så mycket mer därifrån.
Johan kom ut som trea, tog sig förbi Kevin Hansen som strulade till det, men bjöd tillbaka med ett eget misstag.
- Det var rejält slagigt där. I efterhand kan jag tycka att jag var lite för försiktig, men det finns ett långsiktigt tänk där man inte vill tappa poäng genom att köra sönder bilen.
Just säsongen som helhet finns med när Kristoffersson summerar första tävlingshelgen, med två tredjeplatser och en tredjeplats totalt i mästerskapet.
- Det är otroligt starka team som inte ens kommer till final någon av dagarna. Så här kommer det att bli, att det svänger fram och tillbaka under säsongen. Då är det viktigt att vara med där framme så mycket som möjligt.
Och de sandiga dynerna i Saudiarabien är inte heller någon specialitet för Rosberg X Racing-förarna.
- Det svider förstås lite att vi lämnade en del på bordet åt de andra, men det är inte vare sig min eller Mikaelas favorit att åka i sand. Nu säkrar vi ändå två tredjeplatser och får med en bra säck med poäng hem.
- Fantastiskt bra jobb av hela teamet under helgen. Nu ska vi analysera det här och ta nya tag i Skottland i maj!
23-03-12 Veloce Racing and Rosberg X Racing win Q1 Heats in Desert X Prix Round 2
Veloce Racing and Rosberg X Racing (RXR) secured a strong start to Round 2 in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, with wins in their respective Qualifying 1 Heats.
Having both made the Final in Round 1 of the Desert X Prix, with Veloce Racing taking their maiden victory in the series, the two teams continued their impressive form in an action-packed Q1.
Qualifying 1 - Heat 1
As the five teams charged towards the opening corner, it was the Hansen brothers who made the best start. Timmy chose the inside line for Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E as Kevin charged around the outside for Round 1 victors Veloce Racing.
As Veloce Racing slotted into second, X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Fraser McConnell was close behind in third, followed by Timo Scheider in fourth for Carl Cox Motorsport.
ABT CUPRA XE dropped to the back of the pack at the start, with the team set to serve a 30-second penalty in the Switch Zone for using the championship car, following damage to the chassis of their own ODYSSEY 21 when Nasser Al-Attiyah rolled in Round 1’s Redemption Race.
They made the most of their situation, however, hanging back to take on the Continental Traction Challenge with clear air ahead of them. This bold strategy paid off as the team went fastest through the sector, which could prove crucial if they tie on points with another outfit in Round 2’s overall Qualifying.
Up ahead the front four remained tightly packed, as Veloce Racing’s Hansen put pressure on his brother for first and Carl Cox Motorsport’s Scheider attacked X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s McConnell for third.
The teams approached the driver change in these pairs, but problems for Carl Cox Motorsport in the Switch Zone saw Christine GZ stuck in her bay as the team suffered another Qualifying DNF.
Exiting the Switch Zone, Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor set her sights on Catie Munnings in the Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E ODYSSEY 21. The Australian refused to play it safe, pushing Munnings from the very start of their two-lap stint.
Behind them X44 Vida Carbon Racing’s Cristina Gutiérrez closed the gap as the drama continued to build, with Taylor’s bonnet flying clean off as she attempted an overtake. Taylor made use of her ENOWA Hyperdrive to complete the pass on Munnings and claim the lead for Veloce Racing on the shoreline straight.
Gutiérrez held on to her ENOWA Hyperdrive until late on, timing it perfectly as she stole second place for X44 Vida Carbon Racing as the teams approached the finish line. Munnings tried to recover but ran out of course, thus finishing third just 0.293 seconds behind Gutiérrez, with ABT CUPRA XE’s Al-Attiyah bringing the car home safely in fourth.
Veloce Racing and Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E had initially received penalties for speeding in the Switch Zone giving X44 Vida Carbon Racing the win however, following a review, these were rescinded ensuring the on-course finishing positions were retained.
Qualifying 1 - Heat 2
After an initial false start the Heat got going at the second attempt, with RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson sandwiched between the JBXE and ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team cars as the teams approached the first corner.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team’s Tanner Foust pushed for the lead as he charged up the inside line, but despite being squeezed Kristoffersson timed his ENOWA Hyperdrive perfectly to surge to the front as No.99 GMC HUMMER EV’s RJ Anderson picked up the fight for second with Foust.
Mattias Ekström was close behind for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, and gained a position as Foust tussled with Anderson, the former dropping to fourth in the melee for the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team.
All five teams remained congested, but only JBXE’s Heikki Kovalainen had held onto his ENOWA Hyperdrive, which the Finn used to take fourth place from Foust as the front three pulled away.
Anderson tried new lines as he tried take the lead for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing, but RXR’s Kristoffersson shut the door repeatedly as the teams approached the Switch Zone.
Laia Sanz and Amanda Sorensen were side by side as they exited their bays, but Sanz soon slotted into third for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team behind the No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing car.
A nail-biting two laps ensued, with the frontrunners close together as they approached the end of the race.
As Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky crossed the line in first for RXR, Sanz attempted to steal second with her ENOWA Hyperdrive. The Spaniard fell 0.619 seconds short of pulling off the overtake, placing ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team third behind No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing’s Sorensen.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team came fourth, despite a penalty for speeding in the Switch Zone, after Emma Gilmour managed to get round JBXE’s Hedda Hösas who finished a close fifth.
With Qualifying 2, the Redemption Race and the Grand Final all still to come today, find out where you can watch the action here.
Qualifying 1 Results:
Heat 1:
1. Veloce Racing 11:25.061
2. X44 Vida Carbon Racing +2.777
3. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E +3.070
4. ABT CUPRA XE +1:09.044 (PENALISED)
5. Carl Cox Motorsport DNF
Heat 2:
1. Rosberg X Racing 11:27.999
2. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing +0.996
3. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +1.615
4. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team +12.047 (PENALISED)
5. JBXE +12.342
Overall Qualifying 1 Standings:
1. Veloce Racing: 10 points
2. Rosberg X Racing: 10 points
3. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 8 points
4. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 8 points
5. Andretti Altawkilat Extreme E: 6 points
6. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 6 points
7. ABT CUPRA XE: 4 points
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 4 points
9. JBXE: 2 points
10. Carl Cox Motorsport: 0 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-11 Veloce Racing claims maiden victory in Desert X Prix Round 1
Veloce Racing secured their first ever victory in Extreme E following a penalty for on course winners Rosberg X Racing (RXR) in the Grand Final of the opening round in NEOM, Saudi Arabia.
Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor put in a consistent drive for the Desert X Prix Round 1 Grand Final, and while it looked like an outright win was within their grasp they ended the race in second behind Nico Rosberg’s outfit.
After crossing the finish line in first place, RXR received a penalty for speeding under a yellow flag, dropping the team from first to third and ensuring Veloce Racing took the top step on the podium for the first time. ACCIONA | Sainz XE Team finished third on course, but jumped up to second after RXR received their time penalty.
Winners of the series’ first Redemption Race were the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team having seen off championship debutants Carl Cox Motorsport. Tanner Foust and Emma Gilmour came out as best of the rest in a race of two halves, as the session was red flagged following racing incidents for Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E and ABT CUPRA XE.
Kevin Hansen, Veloce Racing, said: “It feels great. To come back to Saudi Arabia and get my first Extreme E win with this new team, with Molly, and in the country that I had such a career changing accident, this is such a highlight.
“Both of us believe so much in what the engineers and mechanics are doing, so we feel so safe when we get in the car. We believe in what we are going to drive and I think that is also giving some results.”
Molly Taylor, Veloce Racing, said: “I think all of us in the team clicking right from the beginning and developing and improving. We were able to start at a really good level in Uruguay form there they've been really good at bringing the best out of every aspect that we look into.
“Our Team Principal Luc [Alphand] knows what it takes to win. Having that faith in someone like that, who's got the scores on the board, who knows what you're feeling, and knows how to translate that into results, I think that's a real advantage for us.”
Grand Final
As the top five teams from Qualifying took on the first ever Grand Final in Extreme E, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Mattias Ekström seemed to have the better start of the group.
As the Swede swung round the outside, RXR’s Johan Kristoffersson stayed closest to the apex of the corner, and the inside line paid off as he charged to the front of the field.
Veloce Racing’s Hansen slotted into second place behind Kristofferson after an impressive move on the outside saw him pass Ekström and No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganssi Racing’s RJ Anderson. The American then dropped to the back of the pack behind Fraser McConnell in the X44 Vida Carbon Racing ODYSSEY who took fourth.
The front four were nose-to-tail with no team gaining an advantage having all used their ENOWA Hyperdrive at the start. As the Swedish trio broke away, Hansen refused to let Kristoffersson go as Ekström also held them both in his sights.
McConnell began to reel in the cars in front as he pushed his ODYSSEY 21, with No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing out of contention having come to a stop on course. The race was soon over for X44 Vida Carbon Racing as well, as technical issues denied Lewis Hamilton’s outfit a shot at the podium.
Up ahead the drama continued, with Ekström beginning to drop off the pace as Kristoffersson continued to shut the door on Hansen in the Veloce Racing ODYSSEY 21 as the teams entered the Switch Zone.
Following the driver change, Veloce Racing’s Taylor took up the chase as she looked to take the lead away from RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky. The Australian looked in with a chance, until she ran wide and dropped time.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky crossed the line in first, with Veloce Racing finishing second and Laia Sanz coming home in third for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team. Celebrations were interrupted, however, when Nico Rosberg;’s outfit were penalised for speeding in a yellow flagged zone. The 136-second penalty saw the team drop to third, handing Veloce Racing their maiden victory in Extreme E.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “We have had a good start to the championship so I think in the end it was a great day!
“We showed good pace in Qualifying and we got the Traction Challenge points so we are happy as we showed that we can win some races. But the level is crazy and everyone fights so hard so it will be difficult.”
Mattias Ekström, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “We are really happy to have finished second today! I’m happy for myself on getting the call from Carlos [Sainz Snr.] but even more happy for him as team boss being here to see us finish second.
“It was all going well until I came to RJ’s [Anderson] car which was a misunderstanding on my part with the slow zone but I will take that lesson with me.”
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, Rosberg X Racing, said: “The team did an amazing job, there were tough fights out there in Qualifying 1 and 2 but the team put the car back together amazingly.
“We were happy to make it the Final. Johan made an amazing start but then I made a mistake in the slow zone. I thought it was 18 for the slow zone not 17, so that was unfortunate of course but in the end a good job from the team.”
Johan Kristoffersson, Rosberg X Racing, said: “It’s always nice to be on the podium but it’s never the nicest thing to cross the finish line first and not win!
“Given that the track is so rough, its impressive that no cars stopped because of the hard impacts from the bumps so that’s well done to Spark for making the cars so reliable and also well done to our team.”
Redemption Race
The remaining five teams fought it out in the Redemption Race to determine sixth to tenth place in the Desert X Prix Round 1 standings.
A strong start from eventual race winners NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team saw Tanner Foust take the lead ahead of ABT CUPRA XE’s Nasser Al-Attiyah and JBXE’s Heikki Kovalainen, whose impressive Extreme E debut showed no signs of faltering.
An incident at the back of the pack saw the Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E ODYSSEY 21 endure its second roll of the day. As Al-Attiyah shut the door on Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider, the German veered into Timmy Hansen sending his ODYSSEY 21 into a spin and Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E out of the race.
This was the first of three DNFs in the race, as Al-Attiyah also rolled his ABT CUPRA XE ODYSSEY 21 over the top of the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team as the Qatari attempted to undercut Foust for the lead.
The remaining trio still on the move avoided the wreckage, with Kovalainen taking the lead in the chaos, and pulled into the Switch Zone as the leader as a Red Flag stopped the race.
As the action got back underway, Gilmour used her ENOWA Hyperdrive immediately to close the gap on Hedda Hösas, but the JBXE team soon dropped to the back before retiring from the race with technical issues, meaning the New Zealander crossed the finish line first ahead of Carl Cox Motorsport’s Christine GZ.
Results:
Grand Final:
1. Veloce Racing 11:56.291
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +16.709
3. Rosberg X Racing +2:08.041 (PENALISED)
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing DNF
5. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing DNF
Redemption Race:
1. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team 28:55.292
2. Carl Cox Motorsport +5.552
3. JBXE DNF
4. ABT CUPRA XE DNF
5. Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E DNF
Championship Standings:
1. Veloce Racing: 26 points
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 21 points
3. Rosberg X Racing: 15 points
4. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 13 points
5. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 11 points
6. NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team: 8 points
7. Carl Cox Motorsport: 6 points
8. JBXE: 4 points
9. ABT CUPRA XE: 2 points
10. Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E: 1 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-11 X44 Vida Carbon Racing and GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing win Q1 Heats
Defending champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing and Season 2 title contenders GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing secured the perfect start to their Season 3 campaign with wins in their respective Qualifying 1 Heats.
Despite both outfits fielding a debutant they secured the top spots in a dramatic Q1, which saw a roll for Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E’s Catie Munnings and multiple ODYSSEY 21s missing some bodywork.
Qualifying 1 - Heat 1
As the five teams charged towards the opening corner, it was RJ Anderson in the lead for GMC HUMMER EV, ahead of Extreme E returner Mattias Ekström in the ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team car.
Carl Cox Motorsport’s Timo Scheider slotted into third, with Timmy Hansen and Nasser Al-Attiyah rounding out the pack after the ABT CUPRA XE driver made contact with the back of the Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E car.
Out in front Ekström soon closed in on Anderson, pulling up alongside the American but falling short of the overtake as Anderson clung onto the inside line.
Anderson held off multiple attempts by the Swede before entering the Switch Zone in first, with Scheider, Hansen and Al-Attiyah maintaining their track position not far behind the leading pair.
As Laia Sanz took over the wheel for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, she tried an alternate line, putting the pressure on Extreme E newcomer Amanda Sorensen as they approached the shoreline section.
The move proved too much as the Spaniard ran wide into the water, giving Sorensen the breathing room she needed to take a win on debut for GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing ahead of ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team in second.
Klara Andersson suffered a similar fate to Sanz, running wide onto the water as she pushed to close the gap from fifth for ABT CUPRA XE. Ahead of the Swede, a tight battle ensued between Carl Cox Motorsport and Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E as Chirstine GZ and Catie Munnings fought hard for third and those all important points for a place in the Grand Final.
As the tussling pair left the shoreline, Munnings made an aggressive move on the inside of GZ but rolled as her ODYSSEY 21 bounced on an unforgiving bump in the terrain.
The incident put Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E out of the race, ensuring a comfortable third on debut for Carl Cox Motorsport and fourth place for the recovering ABT CUPRA XE team.
Qualifying 2 - Heat 2
Heat 2 was no less action-packed, as the new sporting format delivered excitement from the outset.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E’s Tanner Foust emerged at the front of the pack initially, closely followed by Rosberg X Racing’s (RXR) Johan Kristoffersson as the pair took a wider line into the first corner.
In their rear view mirror, X44 Vida Carbon Racing debutant Fraser McConnell stuck to the inside line of the tight right-hander, and cut through from fourth place all the way to first.
A steady start from JBXE’s Heikki Kovalainen saw the Finn in third, behind Foust and ahead of Kristoffersson in his first Extreme E race.
Having followed the same line as McConnell, Veloce Racing’s Kevin Hansen was cut off and left to chase down Kristoffersson from fifth place. Hansen soon passed his fellow Swede, making use of his ENOWA Hyperdrive on the shoreline straight.
Up ahead a confident drive from McConnell saw the Jamaican extend his lead, though only just over six seconds separated the pack from front to back. The wheel-to-wheel action behind him resulted in contact between Kovalainen and Hansen as the latter tried to make the overtake.
Returning to the shoreline straight on the second lap, Foust lost time as he dipped a wheel into the water, opening the door for Kovalainen to surge into second place as NEOM McLaren Extreme E dropped to third in front of Veloce Racing and RXR.
The teams entered the Switch Zone in this order, but Veloce Racing’s Molly Taylor managed to leapfrog Emma Gilmour in the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team car. As that tight-knit pack launched out of the Switch Zone, Taylor then got the better of JBXE’s Hedda Hosås to take second place, forcing the Norwegian to take the alternate, and ultimately slower, line.
Behind them RXR’s Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky stole fourth place from Gilmour right by the water’s edge. The NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team driver then made contact with the RXR ODYSSEY 21 as she tried and failed to take back the position.
X44 Vida Carbon Racing pulled clear to take the win, followed by Veloce Racing in a comfortable second place after a tricky opening. JBXE’s Hosås, coming under pressure from RXR’s Åhlin-Kottulinsky, made use of her ENOWA Hyperdrive to hold onto that all important third place in the Heat ahead of RXR and NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team in fifth.
With Qualifying 2, the Redemption Race and the Grand Final all still to come today, find out where you can watch the action here.
Qualifying 1 Results:
Heat 1:
1. GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing 11:32:914
2. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team +3.384
3. Carl Cox Motorsport +18.663
4. ABT CUPRA XE +2:09.126 (PENALISED)
5. Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E DNF
Heat 2:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing 11:32.993
2. Veloce Racing +8.734
3. JBXE +19.100
4. Rosberg X Racing +20.980
5. NEOM McLaren Extreme E +28.728 (PENALISED)
Overall Qualifying 1 Standings:
1. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 10 points
2. GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 10 points
3. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 8 points
4. Veloce Racing: 8 points
5. Carl Cox Motorsport: 6 points
6. JBXE: 6 points
7. Rosberg X Racing: 4 points
8. ABT CUPRA XE: 4 points
9. NEOM McLaren Extreme E: 2 points
10. Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E: 0 points
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-10 Veloce
Racing quickest in Free Practice as Season 3 gets underway in NEOM
The championship’s ten teams got back behind the wheel in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, along the shores of the Red Sea for what promises to be the most tightly fought season to-date.
The 3.4-kilometre course of the 2023 Desert X Prix will provide many challenges. The sandy terrain will be difficult to manage, while navigating the racing lines as the track develops throughout the weekend will also prove pivotal.
As the drivers got a feel for the course, Extreme E marks an exciting start to its third season with an all-new sporting format. With each X Prix now a double-header, the series’ contenders have even more of opportunity to steal glory from defending champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing.
His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and the Saudi Motorsport Company, said: “It is always an honour and a pleasure to host these events that are important to us. We’re a big fan of sport and have a lot to offer here, especially for rallying. We also have a lot of plans for the future around sustainability and preserving this environment which provides that backdrop to racing.
“Formula E was the first motorsport that we ever hosted and Extreme E one of the latest, so we hope that shows our commitment to clean energy.
“NEOM is all about attracting people to join us on our mission to develop a better way of living that is sustainable and efficient. We want to diversify our economy and it is our job to preserve the world and provide clean energy. Saudi Arabia is investing into new technologies and NEOM represents the pinnacle of that.”
After all twenty drivers got back into the swing of things in Free Practice 1, the times began to tumble in the second session.
Fastest in Free Practice 2 were Veloce Racing with a time of 11:27.589mins. Having shown promising pace on debut for the team in Uruguay, Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor laid down the marker on the shores of NEOM, with Hansen dominating Sector 3 and Taylor securing the quickest time of all the drivers through Sector 4 in FP2.
Kevin Hansen, Veloce Racing, said: “The confidence and spirit within Veloce Racing is extremely high and we’re ready for the Desert X Prix double-header in NEOM.
“This is the best preparation I have had before an XE season, and the team pulled out all the stops with the testing programme in Dubai and with their efforts here in NEOM so far. The ingredients are in place so now we need to go out and execute the plan over the weekend.”
Molly Taylor, Veloce Racing, said: “We’ve already had such a great few weeks of preparation in both Dubai and here in NEOM, and now we can’t wait for the opening rounds of the new Extreme E season to begin.
“The car has felt good during testing and practice, and we’re confident that we can be fighting at the front this weekend.”
Defending champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing enter the season-opener on the backfoot, with penalties in FP1 and technical issues ending their second run prematurely. With the top four teams separated by just over four seconds across Free Practice, the battle is on to find the performance needed to come away from Saudi Arabia victorious.
Veloce Racing’s nearest challengers were Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E who, off the back of seventh in the championship standings last season, have started the opening sessions of the new campaign strongly with a best time of 11:29.867mins (FP2).
Also setting their fastest time in the second session were ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team who rounded out the top three with 11:30.372. The fastest individual lap of the day came from Mattias Ekström. The Swede returns to Extreme E in place of injured Carlos Sainz Snr. and showed no signs of rust on his comeback to the series.
Coming in a close fourth were Rosberg X Racing as they look to bounce back after a disappointing end to their title fight last season, while ABT CUPRA XE closed out the day in fifth off the back of a maiden victory at the Season 2 finale in Uruguay.
No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing and JBXE finished sixth and seventh, respectively, as their new drivers get up to speed with the ODYSSEY 21 and hope to show their hand as the first round of the Desert X Prix gets underway tomorrow.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E team looked quick across both practice sessions, topping the time sheet in FP1 before failing to record a time in FP2 when Tanner Foust incorrectly entered the Switch Zone instead of completing his final lap.
Making their Extreme E debut Carl Cox Motorsport finished in ninth with a time of 12:05.095 as Timo Scheider and Christine GZ grow accustomed to their new surroundings.
Free Practice combined timings:
1. Veloce Racing: 11:27.589 (FP2)
2. Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E: 11:29.867 (FP2)
3. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 11:30.372 (FP2)
4. Rosberg X Racing: 11:31.885 (FP2)
5. ABT CUPRA XE: 11:40.273 (FP2)
6. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 11:54.158 (FP2)
7. JBXE: 11:56.093 (FP2)
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E: 12:00.397 (FP1)
9. Carl Cox Motorsport: 12:05.095 (FP2)
10. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 12:31.374 (FP1)
Extreme E’s Season 3 curtain-raiser promises to be a thriller. Find out where you can watch all of the action here.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
The championship’s ten teams got back behind the wheel in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, along the shores of the Red Sea for what promises to be the most tightly fought season to-date.
The 3.4-kilometre course of the 2023 Desert X Prix will provide many challenges. The sandy terrain will be difficult to manage, while navigating the racing lines as the track develops throughout the weekend will also prove pivotal.
As the drivers got a feel for the course, Extreme E marks an exciting start to its third season with an all-new sporting format. With each X Prix now a double-header, the series’ contenders have even more of opportunity to steal glory from defending champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing.
His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and the Saudi Motorsport Company, said: “It is always an honour and a pleasure to host these events that are important to us. We’re a big fan of sport and have a lot to offer here, especially for rallying. We also have a lot of plans for the future around sustainability and preserving this environment which provides that backdrop to racing.
“Formula E was the first motorsport that we ever hosted and Extreme E one of the latest, so we hope that shows our commitment to clean energy.
“NEOM is all about attracting people to join us on our mission to develop a better way of living that is sustainable and efficient. We want to diversify our economy and it is our job to preserve the world and provide clean energy. Saudi Arabia is investing into new technologies and NEOM represents the pinnacle of that.”
After all twenty drivers got back into the swing of things in Free Practice 1, the times began to tumble in the second session.
Fastest in Free Practice 2 were Veloce Racing with a time of 11:27.589mins. Having shown promising pace on debut for the team in Uruguay, Kevin Hansen and Molly Taylor laid down the marker on the shores of NEOM, with Hansen dominating Sector 3 and Taylor securing the quickest time of all the drivers through Sector 4 in FP2.
Kevin Hansen, Veloce Racing, said: “The confidence and spirit within Veloce Racing is extremely high and we’re ready for the Desert X Prix double-header in NEOM.
“This is the best preparation I have had before an XE season, and the team pulled out all the stops with the testing programme in Dubai and with their efforts here in NEOM so far. The ingredients are in place so now we need to go out and execute the plan over the weekend.”
Molly Taylor, Veloce Racing, said: “We’ve already had such a great few weeks of preparation in both Dubai and here in NEOM, and now we can’t wait for the opening rounds of the new Extreme E season to begin.
“The car has felt good during testing and practice, and we’re confident that we can be fighting at the front this weekend.”
Defending champions X44 Vida Carbon Racing enter the season-opener on the backfoot, with penalties in FP1 and technical issues ending their second run prematurely. With the top four teams separated by just over four seconds across Free Practice, the battle is on to find the performance needed to come away from Saudi Arabia victorious.
Veloce Racing’s nearest challengers were Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E who, off the back of seventh in the championship standings last season, have started the opening sessions of the new campaign strongly with a best time of 11:29.867mins (FP2).
Also setting their fastest time in the second session were ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team who rounded out the top three with 11:30.372. The fastest individual lap of the day came from Mattias Ekström. The Swede returns to Extreme E in place of injured Carlos Sainz Snr. and showed no signs of rust on his comeback to the series.
Coming in a close fourth were Rosberg X Racing as they look to bounce back after a disappointing end to their title fight last season, while ABT CUPRA XE closed out the day in fifth off the back of a maiden victory at the Season 2 finale in Uruguay.
No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing and JBXE finished sixth and seventh, respectively, as their new drivers get up to speed with the ODYSSEY 21 and hope to show their hand as the first round of the Desert X Prix gets underway tomorrow.
NEOM McLaren Extreme E team looked quick across both practice sessions, topping the time sheet in FP1 before failing to record a time in FP2 when Tanner Foust incorrectly entered the Switch Zone instead of completing his final lap.
Making their Extreme E debut Carl Cox Motorsport finished in ninth with a time of 12:05.095 as Timo Scheider and Christine GZ grow accustomed to their new surroundings.
Free Practice combined timings:
1. Veloce Racing: 11:27.589 (FP2)
2. Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E: 11:29.867 (FP2)
3. ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team: 11:30.372 (FP2)
4. Rosberg X Racing: 11:31.885 (FP2)
5. ABT CUPRA XE: 11:40.273 (FP2)
6. No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing: 11:54.158 (FP2)
7. JBXE: 11:56.093 (FP2)
8. NEOM McLaren Extreme E: 12:00.397 (FP1)
9. Carl Cox Motorsport: 12:05.095 (FP2)
10. X44 Vida Carbon Racing: 12:31.374 (FP1)
Extreme E’s Season 3 curtain-raiser promises to be a thriller. Find out where you can watch all of the action here.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-09 Continental
reveal more robust and sustainable CrossContact tyre for Season 3
Extreme E Founding Partner, Continental, will once again supply a new version of the CrossContact Extreme E tyre for the new season of the pioneering series.
The 2023 campaign begins on 11-12 March in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, and in the development of the new tyre Continental placed an emphasis on using an even higher proportion of sustainable materials.
As a result, the new CrossContact Extreme E now consists of around 43 per cent recycled and renewable materials. Among these is silica obtained from the ash of rice husks, a waste material of agriculture. Alongside processed steel and carbon black, Continental is again integrating polyester yarn from recycled PET plastic bottles into the tyre’s construction.
As well as increasing its use of new, more sustainable solutions, the tyre manufacturer has reduced the overall weight of the CrossContact Extreme E tyre by two kilograms. And that leads to emissions savings in the transportation process.
Continental is a founding partner of Extreme E and exclusive tyre supplier to the championship, which is now in its third season.
Nels von Schnakenburg, Technical Manager for Extreme E at Continental, said: “We have focused even more strongly on the use of sustainable and recyclable materials with this tyre and are extremely well prepared for the challenges of the 2023 season.
“We’ve also made further gains with handling performance and have therefore improved drivability. The performance and robustness of the tyre mean it will be able to withstand the full range of challenges Extreme E can throw at it.”
The third-generation CrossContact Extreme E also employs the ContiRe.Tex technology developed by Continental. This includes polyester yarn produced without any intermediate chemical steps from used PET bottles that are not recycled elsewhere. The bottles used for this technology are sourced exclusively from regions which do not have a closed recycling loop.
Continental will supply 30 tyres to each of the ten teams competing in the third season of Extreme E, and each of those tyres will contain polyester from around 60 processed PET bottles. The company currently offers road car drivers three series-produced tyre models with polyester from recycled PET bottles, each in five dimensions: the PremiumContact 6, the EcoContact 6 and the AllSeasonContact all-season tyre.
Together with rubber, fillers like silica are also an essential part of a tyre’s construction. Silica helps to significantly improve characteristics such as grip, rolling resistance and mileage.
In the CrossContact Extreme E, rice husks provide the base material for the sustainably manufactured silica. Rice husks are a waste product of rice production and cannot be used as food or animal feed.
The manufacture of silica is more energy efficient when it is obtained from the ash of rice husks than when conventional materials like quartz sand are used.
The third generation of the CrossContact Extreme E will be used in all five events on the 2023 calendar and has been optimized to deliver maximum performance across all climate zones and on all surfaces. The size, diameter and width of the tyre are unchanged at 37 x 12.50 R17 – which means a diameter of 37 inches, width of 12.5 inches and 17-inch wheel rims.
Continental’s tyre sector is pursuing a holistic approach to sustainability across all phases of the tyre value chain. Continental has set itself the mission of becoming the most progressive tyre company in terms of environmental and social responsibility.
For Continental, circular economy solutions represent an important route to achieving its ambitious goal of carbon neutrality throughout its value chain by 2050 at the latest.
You can see the CrossContact Extreme E Season 3 tyre in action as the first X Prix of 2023 gets underway in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, this weekend (11-12 March).
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
Extreme E Founding Partner, Continental, will once again supply a new version of the CrossContact Extreme E tyre for the new season of the pioneering series.
The 2023 campaign begins on 11-12 March in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, and in the development of the new tyre Continental placed an emphasis on using an even higher proportion of sustainable materials.
As a result, the new CrossContact Extreme E now consists of around 43 per cent recycled and renewable materials. Among these is silica obtained from the ash of rice husks, a waste material of agriculture. Alongside processed steel and carbon black, Continental is again integrating polyester yarn from recycled PET plastic bottles into the tyre’s construction.
As well as increasing its use of new, more sustainable solutions, the tyre manufacturer has reduced the overall weight of the CrossContact Extreme E tyre by two kilograms. And that leads to emissions savings in the transportation process.
Continental is a founding partner of Extreme E and exclusive tyre supplier to the championship, which is now in its third season.
Nels von Schnakenburg, Technical Manager for Extreme E at Continental, said: “We have focused even more strongly on the use of sustainable and recyclable materials with this tyre and are extremely well prepared for the challenges of the 2023 season.
“We’ve also made further gains with handling performance and have therefore improved drivability. The performance and robustness of the tyre mean it will be able to withstand the full range of challenges Extreme E can throw at it.”
The third-generation CrossContact Extreme E also employs the ContiRe.Tex technology developed by Continental. This includes polyester yarn produced without any intermediate chemical steps from used PET bottles that are not recycled elsewhere. The bottles used for this technology are sourced exclusively from regions which do not have a closed recycling loop.
Continental will supply 30 tyres to each of the ten teams competing in the third season of Extreme E, and each of those tyres will contain polyester from around 60 processed PET bottles. The company currently offers road car drivers three series-produced tyre models with polyester from recycled PET bottles, each in five dimensions: the PremiumContact 6, the EcoContact 6 and the AllSeasonContact all-season tyre.
Together with rubber, fillers like silica are also an essential part of a tyre’s construction. Silica helps to significantly improve characteristics such as grip, rolling resistance and mileage.
In the CrossContact Extreme E, rice husks provide the base material for the sustainably manufactured silica. Rice husks are a waste product of rice production and cannot be used as food or animal feed.
The manufacture of silica is more energy efficient when it is obtained from the ash of rice husks than when conventional materials like quartz sand are used.
The third generation of the CrossContact Extreme E will be used in all five events on the 2023 calendar and has been optimized to deliver maximum performance across all climate zones and on all surfaces. The size, diameter and width of the tyre are unchanged at 37 x 12.50 R17 – which means a diameter of 37 inches, width of 12.5 inches and 17-inch wheel rims.
Continental’s tyre sector is pursuing a holistic approach to sustainability across all phases of the tyre value chain. Continental has set itself the mission of becoming the most progressive tyre company in terms of environmental and social responsibility.
For Continental, circular economy solutions represent an important route to achieving its ambitious goal of carbon neutrality throughout its value chain by 2050 at the latest.
You can see the CrossContact Extreme E Season 3 tyre in action as the first X Prix of 2023 gets underway in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, this weekend (11-12 March).
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-08
Johan jagar tredje raka premiärsegern
Johan Kristoffersson går in i sin tredje säsong i Extreme E med Rosberg X Racing och den andra tillsammans med teamkamraten Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky. Premiären körs i Saudiarabien.
- Vi har vunnit båda premiärerna i Saudi, men jag kan inte säga att det är min största styrka att köra i sand, menar Kristoffersson.
RXR vann premiärsäsongen av offroad-serien Extreme E 2021, då med Kristoffersson och Molly Taylor som förare i teamets elbil. Förra året såg det länge ut att bli en ny titel, men i de sista deltävlingarna gick det mesta emot och titeln gled Rosberg X Racing ur händerna.
- Vi startade säsongen riktigt bra, men sedan blev inte avslutningen lika bra, medger Kristoffersson, som nu tar nya tag tillsammans med Värmlands-kollegan Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky.
- Vi får försöka bygga vidare på det vi gjorde ifjol. Ju fler race vi kör tillsammans, desto lättare blir det att förstå varandra. Och så har vi kört lite grann i vinter också.
Årets säsong bjuder på en del nyheter i tävlingsformatet. Alla helger blir dubbeltävlingar, en på lördag och en på söndag, totalt tio tävlingar fördelat på de fem tävlingsplatserna. Det individuella tidskvalet har plockats bort, vilket betyder att det blir heatkörning varje gång.
- Varken jag eller Mikaela har några problem med hjul-mot-hjul-körning, så det blir spännande.
Årets första tävlingsplats är förlagd till området vid Röda havet i närheten av Neom. Efter Saudiarabien väntar Skottland i maj, italienska ön Sardinien i juli, Amazonas eller USA i september innan säsong tre går i mål i Chile första helgen i december.
- Alla startar på noll nu, så det gäller att inte ta alltför stora risker i början av säsongen men ändå samla så mycket poäng det går.
I de konkurrerande teamen har det rört på sig en del i förarbesättningarna. I Acciona Sainz dyker rallycrossbekantingen Mattias Ekström upp medan ännu en RX-förare återfinns på Sébastien Loebs tidigare plats i regerande mästarteamet X44: Fraser McConnell. JBXE har plockat in förre formel 1-föraren Heikki Kovalainen. Gott om kvalificerade motståndare alltså, men Kristoffersson lägger inte så stor vikt vid vilka som sitter i de andra bilarna.
- Vi fokuserar på vårt och det vi kan påverka själva. Målet är att göra allt så bra vi kan.
Johan Kristoffersson går in i sin tredje säsong i Extreme E med Rosberg X Racing och den andra tillsammans med teamkamraten Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky. Premiären körs i Saudiarabien.
- Vi har vunnit båda premiärerna i Saudi, men jag kan inte säga att det är min största styrka att köra i sand, menar Kristoffersson.
RXR vann premiärsäsongen av offroad-serien Extreme E 2021, då med Kristoffersson och Molly Taylor som förare i teamets elbil. Förra året såg det länge ut att bli en ny titel, men i de sista deltävlingarna gick det mesta emot och titeln gled Rosberg X Racing ur händerna.
- Vi startade säsongen riktigt bra, men sedan blev inte avslutningen lika bra, medger Kristoffersson, som nu tar nya tag tillsammans med Värmlands-kollegan Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky.
- Vi får försöka bygga vidare på det vi gjorde ifjol. Ju fler race vi kör tillsammans, desto lättare blir det att förstå varandra. Och så har vi kört lite grann i vinter också.
Årets säsong bjuder på en del nyheter i tävlingsformatet. Alla helger blir dubbeltävlingar, en på lördag och en på söndag, totalt tio tävlingar fördelat på de fem tävlingsplatserna. Det individuella tidskvalet har plockats bort, vilket betyder att det blir heatkörning varje gång.
- Varken jag eller Mikaela har några problem med hjul-mot-hjul-körning, så det blir spännande.
Årets första tävlingsplats är förlagd till området vid Röda havet i närheten av Neom. Efter Saudiarabien väntar Skottland i maj, italienska ön Sardinien i juli, Amazonas eller USA i september innan säsong tre går i mål i Chile första helgen i december.
- Alla startar på noll nu, så det gäller att inte ta alltför stora risker i början av säsongen men ändå samla så mycket poäng det går.
I de konkurrerande teamen har det rört på sig en del i förarbesättningarna. I Acciona Sainz dyker rallycrossbekantingen Mattias Ekström upp medan ännu en RX-förare återfinns på Sébastien Loebs tidigare plats i regerande mästarteamet X44: Fraser McConnell. JBXE har plockat in förre formel 1-föraren Heikki Kovalainen. Gott om kvalificerade motståndare alltså, men Kristoffersson lägger inte så stor vikt vid vilka som sitter i de andra bilarna.
- Vi fokuserar på vårt och det vi kan påverka själva. Målet är att göra allt så bra vi kan.
23-03-08 Excitement
builds for closest Extreme E season yet
When you think of the legendary Carl Cox - you don’t think of a man obsessed with cars, extracting m
New racing format for Season 3 brings double the action with zero additional carbon footprint impact
Lewis Hamilton's X44 Vida Carbon Racing set out to defend their Season 2 title with Fraser McConnell and Cristina Gutiérrez
Legendary DJ Carl Cox and eponymous team aim to start first campaign on a high
New line-ups for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing and JBXE
Mattias Ekström races in place of injured Carlos Sainz Snr.
Building on the success of its first two campaigns, Extreme E Season 3 promises to be the most action-packed yet. Double the races and new driver line-ups have set the stage for the tightest championship battle so far.
Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing will defend their Season 2 crown, with last year’s runners-up Rosberg X Racing (RXR) looking to reclaim the championship they won in 2021.
The new campaign also marks the return of Mattias Ekström and Christine GZ alongside debuts for Heikki Kovalainen, Amanda Sorensen and legendary DJ Carl Cox’s eponymous team.
The Season 3 opener sees Extreme E return to the familiar grounds of NEOM, Saudi Arabia, this weekend (11-12 March), only this time in a slightly new location. While teams will once again face a mostly sandy terrain, the 2023 Desert X Prix will pose a new challenge set on the shores of the Red Sea.
NEOM is the centrepiece of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to grow and diversify the Saudi economy and position the country as a leader in global sustainable development.
Built from the ground up, NEOM will be a new model for liveability in the face of climate change, creating thriving businesses and reinventing environmental conservation. This will include the world’s first large-scale renewable energy system, pioneering the use of green hydrogen, as well as a world hub for clean energy generation research and innovation.
Beyond being a hub for sustainability, entrepreneurs and business leaders, NEOM is also set to be the home of adventure sports – creating active communities and a host destination for dynamic and challenging sports - Extreme E being among the first.
The opening round Extreme E Season 3 will take place on the shores of the Red Sea close to the location of the 2022 NEOM Beach Games, which hosted over 300 athletes from 25 countries.
The change of scene brings a new challenge for the twenty world-class drivers, ensuring that they will have to be at the top of their game to claim podium positions.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “We cannot wait for the third season of Extreme E to begin in NEOM next week.
“Our first two campaigns have been a huge success and this season promises to be the most competitive and closely fought season yet.
“We are going to have some spectacular racing, and to now have a ten-race championship in Extreme E is a tantalising prospect for everyone on board.
"We believe the increased number of races will only enhance our series, starting with the Desert X Prix.”
Championship winners X44 Vida Carbon Racing will return in Season 3 to defend their maiden title, after clinching the victory in Uruguay last November. The team will be fighting for back-to-back titles with Cristina Gutiérrez and new recruit Fraser McConnell, with Sebastien Loeb leaving the team.
The Uruguay Natural Energy X Prix Final went down to the wire, with Lewis Hamilton’s outfit securing championship glory, finishing third in the Final by just half a second.
This sets the tone for a close and competitive campaign this year, which can only be made more exciting by the introduction of a new sporting format.
New Sporting Format
Season 3 will see the calendar double from five to ten rounds, with all race weekends serving as double-headers - showcasing twice the action for minimal additional carbon output.
The new doubleheader format will run as follows:
Qualifying 1 and Qualifying 2 will both consist of two heats, five cars each. This means four wheel-to-wheel races will determine who comes out on top.
Intermediate Classification Points are awarded for Q1 and Q2, with a single championship point awarded to the winners of each Heat – something that could prove crucial in the closing stages of the season.
This will be followed by the Grand Final, starring the top five teams from Qualifying, with the winner taking the top step of the podium.
The remaining five teams will battle it out in Redemption Race, where all important championship points are still at stake.
The above format will take place on both Saturday and Sunday, meaning two winners will be crowned at each race weekend. It promises to deliver some breath-taking competition, with double the opportunity for wins, podiums, and crucial points across the ten-race calendar, raising the stakes to a whole new level.
Qualifying
Qualifying 1 Heat 1: 5 cars with a switch halfway
Qualifying 1 Heat 2: 5 cars with a switch halfway
Intermediate Classification points are awarded in the Qualifying 1, Heats 1 and 2, on the following basis:
1st 10 points + 1 championship point
2nd 8 points
3rd 6 points
4th 4 points
5th 2 points
Starting positions for Qualifying 1 allocated through a lottery
Qualifying 2 Heat 1: 5 cars with a switch halfway
Qualifying 2 Heat 2: 5 cars with a switch halfway
Starting positions for Qualifying 2 determined by finishing order of the Heats in Qualifying Round 1
Intermediate Classification points are awarded in the Qualifying 2, Heats 1 and 2, on the following basis:
1st 10 points + 1 championship point
2nd 8 points
3rd 6 points
4th 4 points
5th 2 points
Finals
The combined points for each team from Qualifying Rounds 1 and 2 will determine the overall classification at the end of Qualifying for final positions as follows:
Top 5 – Grand Final
Bottom 5 – Redemption Race
In the event of the same points being achieved after Qualifying Rounds 1 and 2, the Team with the fastest Continental Traction Challenge time of the Qualifying Rounds shall be deemed to be the quicker.
Championship Points
1st: 25 points (Winner of Grand Final)
2nd: 18 points (2nd in GF)
3rd: 15 points (3rd in GF)
4th: 12 points (4th in GF))
5th: 10 points (5th in GF)
6th: 8 points (Winner of Redemption Race)
7th: 6 points (2nd in RR)
8th: 4 points (3rd in RR)
9th: 2 points (4th in RR)
10th: 1 point (5th in RR)
Continental Traction Challenge
Still playing a crucial role in the championship fight is the Continental Traction Challenge. The team that sets the fastest time through the allocated sector will win the Continental Traction Challenge and now earn two championship points. This will run for each of the individual race days on Saturday and Sunday.
A team’s Traction Challenge time will be the combination of both the male and female drivers’ fastest time through the allocated sector over the course of a race day as part of the series’ continued ambitions around equality.
GridPlay
With the renewed and intense competition ahead, GridPlay will be crucial at the Desert X Prix.
GridPlay returns in Season 3, with grid positions for the Grand Final determined through the fan voting process. The teams that do not make it to The Grand Final must ‘gift’ their votes to their preferred team on The Grand Final grid. Grid position for the Redemption Race will be defined by the Intermediate Classification results, with the team that finished 6th choosing grid position first, followed by the team that finished 7th, and so on.
Driver Line-Ups
The 10 teams and 20 drivers for the 2023 Desert X Prix are as follows:
ABT CUPRA XE – Nasser Al-Attiyah / Klara Andersson
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team – Mattias Ekström / Laia Sanz
Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E – Timmy Hansen / Catie Munnings
Carl Cox Motorsport – Timo Scheider / Christine GZ
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team – Tanner Foust / Emma Gilmour
No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing – RJ Anderson / Amanda Sorensen
JBXE – Heikki Kovalainen / Hedda Hosås
Rosberg X Racing – Johan Kristoffersson / Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky
Veloce Racing – Kevin Hansen / Molly Taylor
X44 Vida Carbon Racing – Fraser McConnell / Cristina Gutiérrez
Count Us In
Season 3 is set to launch a new strategy to engage fans and promote sustainability. This season, there will be a single call to action per race, making it a total of five easy-to-follow calls to action over the course of the year.
Fans visit the Extreme E - Count Us In website during the campaign period, take a pledge, and choose which team they support. The pledges will be counted in the form of a team leader board, and the winning team with the highest number of pledges taken by their fans will be announced at the end of the season.
At the end of each race, the team with the most pledges will be awarded a digital award. At the last race in Chile, the Extreme E Sustainability Award will be given to the team with the highest number of pledges taken throughout the season. This new approach is expected to increase engagement among fans while promoting sustainability in motorsports.
Legacy Programme
Beyond the racing, the Desert X Prix will also host Extreme E’s first legacy programme of the campaign. On 9 March, just ahead of the Extreme E opening race weekend, race team personnel, including several of the drivers themselves, will travel to the NEOM Nature Reserve and assist in the release of Arabian oryx, Red Neck ostriches and Arabian Sand gazelle into the area.
This will be pivotal in rebuilding the areas ecosystem, reintroducing species that were originally prolific in these deserts, but have not roamed freely here for over a century. The project plans to have a long-term and revitalising impact on the 25,000 km2 Nature Reserve, helping to deliver the nature conservation of Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative (SGI). This will be complimented by Extreme E continuing to plant more trees in the region as part of its regreening initiative.
With less than a week to go until the opening X Prix of the campaign, Extreme E Season 3 is all set to be another spectacular campaign.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
When you think of the legendary Carl Cox - you don’t think of a man obsessed with cars, extracting m
New racing format for Season 3 brings double the action with zero additional carbon footprint impact
Lewis Hamilton's X44 Vida Carbon Racing set out to defend their Season 2 title with Fraser McConnell and Cristina Gutiérrez
Legendary DJ Carl Cox and eponymous team aim to start first campaign on a high
New line-ups for No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing and JBXE
Mattias Ekström races in place of injured Carlos Sainz Snr.
Building on the success of its first two campaigns, Extreme E Season 3 promises to be the most action-packed yet. Double the races and new driver line-ups have set the stage for the tightest championship battle so far.
Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing will defend their Season 2 crown, with last year’s runners-up Rosberg X Racing (RXR) looking to reclaim the championship they won in 2021.
The new campaign also marks the return of Mattias Ekström and Christine GZ alongside debuts for Heikki Kovalainen, Amanda Sorensen and legendary DJ Carl Cox’s eponymous team.
The Season 3 opener sees Extreme E return to the familiar grounds of NEOM, Saudi Arabia, this weekend (11-12 March), only this time in a slightly new location. While teams will once again face a mostly sandy terrain, the 2023 Desert X Prix will pose a new challenge set on the shores of the Red Sea.
NEOM is the centrepiece of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to grow and diversify the Saudi economy and position the country as a leader in global sustainable development.
Built from the ground up, NEOM will be a new model for liveability in the face of climate change, creating thriving businesses and reinventing environmental conservation. This will include the world’s first large-scale renewable energy system, pioneering the use of green hydrogen, as well as a world hub for clean energy generation research and innovation.
Beyond being a hub for sustainability, entrepreneurs and business leaders, NEOM is also set to be the home of adventure sports – creating active communities and a host destination for dynamic and challenging sports - Extreme E being among the first.
The opening round Extreme E Season 3 will take place on the shores of the Red Sea close to the location of the 2022 NEOM Beach Games, which hosted over 300 athletes from 25 countries.
The change of scene brings a new challenge for the twenty world-class drivers, ensuring that they will have to be at the top of their game to claim podium positions.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO of Extreme E, said: “We cannot wait for the third season of Extreme E to begin in NEOM next week.
“Our first two campaigns have been a huge success and this season promises to be the most competitive and closely fought season yet.
“We are going to have some spectacular racing, and to now have a ten-race championship in Extreme E is a tantalising prospect for everyone on board.
"We believe the increased number of races will only enhance our series, starting with the Desert X Prix.”
Championship winners X44 Vida Carbon Racing will return in Season 3 to defend their maiden title, after clinching the victory in Uruguay last November. The team will be fighting for back-to-back titles with Cristina Gutiérrez and new recruit Fraser McConnell, with Sebastien Loeb leaving the team.
The Uruguay Natural Energy X Prix Final went down to the wire, with Lewis Hamilton’s outfit securing championship glory, finishing third in the Final by just half a second.
This sets the tone for a close and competitive campaign this year, which can only be made more exciting by the introduction of a new sporting format.
New Sporting Format
Season 3 will see the calendar double from five to ten rounds, with all race weekends serving as double-headers - showcasing twice the action for minimal additional carbon output.
The new doubleheader format will run as follows:
Qualifying 1 and Qualifying 2 will both consist of two heats, five cars each. This means four wheel-to-wheel races will determine who comes out on top.
Intermediate Classification Points are awarded for Q1 and Q2, with a single championship point awarded to the winners of each Heat – something that could prove crucial in the closing stages of the season.
This will be followed by the Grand Final, starring the top five teams from Qualifying, with the winner taking the top step of the podium.
The remaining five teams will battle it out in Redemption Race, where all important championship points are still at stake.
The above format will take place on both Saturday and Sunday, meaning two winners will be crowned at each race weekend. It promises to deliver some breath-taking competition, with double the opportunity for wins, podiums, and crucial points across the ten-race calendar, raising the stakes to a whole new level.
Qualifying
Qualifying 1 Heat 1: 5 cars with a switch halfway
Qualifying 1 Heat 2: 5 cars with a switch halfway
Intermediate Classification points are awarded in the Qualifying 1, Heats 1 and 2, on the following basis:
1st 10 points + 1 championship point
2nd 8 points
3rd 6 points
4th 4 points
5th 2 points
Starting positions for Qualifying 1 allocated through a lottery
Qualifying 2 Heat 1: 5 cars with a switch halfway
Qualifying 2 Heat 2: 5 cars with a switch halfway
Starting positions for Qualifying 2 determined by finishing order of the Heats in Qualifying Round 1
Intermediate Classification points are awarded in the Qualifying 2, Heats 1 and 2, on the following basis:
1st 10 points + 1 championship point
2nd 8 points
3rd 6 points
4th 4 points
5th 2 points
Finals
The combined points for each team from Qualifying Rounds 1 and 2 will determine the overall classification at the end of Qualifying for final positions as follows:
Top 5 – Grand Final
Bottom 5 – Redemption Race
In the event of the same points being achieved after Qualifying Rounds 1 and 2, the Team with the fastest Continental Traction Challenge time of the Qualifying Rounds shall be deemed to be the quicker.
Championship Points
1st: 25 points (Winner of Grand Final)
2nd: 18 points (2nd in GF)
3rd: 15 points (3rd in GF)
4th: 12 points (4th in GF))
5th: 10 points (5th in GF)
6th: 8 points (Winner of Redemption Race)
7th: 6 points (2nd in RR)
8th: 4 points (3rd in RR)
9th: 2 points (4th in RR)
10th: 1 point (5th in RR)
Continental Traction Challenge
Still playing a crucial role in the championship fight is the Continental Traction Challenge. The team that sets the fastest time through the allocated sector will win the Continental Traction Challenge and now earn two championship points. This will run for each of the individual race days on Saturday and Sunday.
A team’s Traction Challenge time will be the combination of both the male and female drivers’ fastest time through the allocated sector over the course of a race day as part of the series’ continued ambitions around equality.
GridPlay
With the renewed and intense competition ahead, GridPlay will be crucial at the Desert X Prix.
GridPlay returns in Season 3, with grid positions for the Grand Final determined through the fan voting process. The teams that do not make it to The Grand Final must ‘gift’ their votes to their preferred team on The Grand Final grid. Grid position for the Redemption Race will be defined by the Intermediate Classification results, with the team that finished 6th choosing grid position first, followed by the team that finished 7th, and so on.
Driver Line-Ups
The 10 teams and 20 drivers for the 2023 Desert X Prix are as follows:
ABT CUPRA XE – Nasser Al-Attiyah / Klara Andersson
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team – Mattias Ekström / Laia Sanz
Andretti ALTAWKILAT Extreme E – Timmy Hansen / Catie Munnings
Carl Cox Motorsport – Timo Scheider / Christine GZ
NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team – Tanner Foust / Emma Gilmour
No.99 GMC HUMMER EV Chip Ganassi Racing – RJ Anderson / Amanda Sorensen
JBXE – Heikki Kovalainen / Hedda Hosås
Rosberg X Racing – Johan Kristoffersson / Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky
Veloce Racing – Kevin Hansen / Molly Taylor
X44 Vida Carbon Racing – Fraser McConnell / Cristina Gutiérrez
Count Us In
Season 3 is set to launch a new strategy to engage fans and promote sustainability. This season, there will be a single call to action per race, making it a total of five easy-to-follow calls to action over the course of the year.
Fans visit the Extreme E - Count Us In website during the campaign period, take a pledge, and choose which team they support. The pledges will be counted in the form of a team leader board, and the winning team with the highest number of pledges taken by their fans will be announced at the end of the season.
At the end of each race, the team with the most pledges will be awarded a digital award. At the last race in Chile, the Extreme E Sustainability Award will be given to the team with the highest number of pledges taken throughout the season. This new approach is expected to increase engagement among fans while promoting sustainability in motorsports.
Legacy Programme
Beyond the racing, the Desert X Prix will also host Extreme E’s first legacy programme of the campaign. On 9 March, just ahead of the Extreme E opening race weekend, race team personnel, including several of the drivers themselves, will travel to the NEOM Nature Reserve and assist in the release of Arabian oryx, Red Neck ostriches and Arabian Sand gazelle into the area.
This will be pivotal in rebuilding the areas ecosystem, reintroducing species that were originally prolific in these deserts, but have not roamed freely here for over a century. The project plans to have a long-term and revitalising impact on the 25,000 km2 Nature Reserve, helping to deliver the nature conservation of Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative (SGI). This will be complimented by Extreme E continuing to plant more trees in the region as part of its regreening initiative.
With less than a week to go until the opening X Prix of the campaign, Extreme E Season 3 is all set to be another spectacular campaign.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-08 Carl
Cox looks ahead to Season 3 with Off-Track podcast
When you think of the legendary Carl Cox - you don’t think of a man obsessed with cars, extracting mega horsepower or supporting a NZ sidecar team.
But what you do expect is his ability to energise a room, draw attention to whatever it is that he’s passionate about and bring joy to millions - which is clearly evident in this episode.
Carl sat down with James Baldwin to discuss his new gig as an Extreme E team owner, where his love and passion for motorsport comes from and what he’s excited for in Season 3.
The latest episode of Off Track is available for free on all major podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify, as well as www.extreme-e.com.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
When you think of the legendary Carl Cox - you don’t think of a man obsessed with cars, extracting mega horsepower or supporting a NZ sidecar team.
But what you do expect is his ability to energise a room, draw attention to whatever it is that he’s passionate about and bring joy to millions - which is clearly evident in this episode.
Carl sat down with James Baldwin to discuss his new gig as an Extreme E team owner, where his love and passion for motorsport comes from and what he’s excited for in Season 3.
The latest episode of Off Track is available for free on all major podcast platforms like Apple and Spotify, as well as www.extreme-e.com.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-07 Sir
Lewis Hamilton’s championship-winning X44 Vida Carbon Racing announces
new team direction for Extreme E Season 3
X44 Vida Carbon Racing, the Extreme E team founded by seven-time Formula 1™ World Champion Sir Lewis Hamilton, has today announced its Season 3 line-up.
As a Black-owned team, X44 Vida Carbon Racing recognises that motorsport has traditionally been dominated by a narrow demographic, an issue that team owner Sir Lewis Hamilton has long been dedicated to addressing through The Hamilton Commission, his research project in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering, and his charitable foundation Mission44.
Off the back of their Extreme E Season 2 Championship win, his race team X44 Vida Carbon Racing now heads into Season 3 of the series with a renewed focus on breaking down these barriers and creating a more diverse and inclusive environment within the sport.
With this new focus, X44 Vida Carbon Racing hopes to inspire a new generation of drivers and fans to become involved in motorsport and push the industry forward, ensuring it is more reflective of the world we live in. Ultimately, the team believes that better diversity and inclusion is the only path towards the long-term success of the sport, with the most talented people chosen for the job, no matter their background.
To achieve these goals, X44 Vida Carbon Racing is taking a holistic look at how the team can create a more diverse and inclusive environment in motorsport by placing opportunity as its top priority.
Initial commitments include:
Partnering with Rodin Carlin to ensure the X44 Vida Carbon Racing team is made up of a diverse group of talented executives, mechanics and engineers, and building a team structure which places developing the next generation of motorsport talent front and centre.
Led by Team Principal Stephanie Carlin, long time Carlin executive and Team Principal of Carlin’s team in the upcoming F1 Academy, the new team structure will include;
Deputy Team Principal Stephanie Travers, an experienced engineer and motorsport executive, known for breaking barriers in Formula 1, including being the first Black woman on a Formula 1 race podium;
Race Engineer George Imafidon, a member of The Hamilton Commission who has worked within X44 Vida Carbon across the inaugural two seasons;
And a number of team members from a range of backgrounds.
Continuing to support Extreme E’s Racing for All initiative, founded in line with The Hamilton Commission findings, which allows each team in the series an additional team member, who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity, to get a first step on the career ladder. For Season 3, X44 Vida Carbon Racing will be introducing Calvin Langat who will take on the role of junior engineer.
Using the X44 Vida Carbon Racing platform to champion underrepresented voices, and ensure the world hears diverse perspectives on climate issues.
Working alongside team partners to ensure all activity is inclusive; from working with diverse content creators to tell sustainability stories from around the world – including the global south – to providing storytelling opportunities for the next generation of aspiring social media producers.
Sir Lewis Hamilton, X44 Vida Carbon Racing owner and seven-time Formula 1™ World Champion, said: “I’m so proud of the incredible work that my team has undertaken so far in Extreme E, and I can’t wait for us to take it to the next level this year.
"We know from the findings of The Hamilton Commission that the motorsport industry is an incredibly difficult place to break into, and I hope that X44 Vida Carbon Racing can be a powerful platform to provide opportunities to the next generation. It has never been more important that we, as an industry, take real action to move our sport forward, and X44 Vida Carbon’s new direction is one of the ways I am committing to making that genuine change.”
The new reset will be undertaken in partnership with Rodin Carlin, a name synonymous with rising talent and racing excellence. The team has been winning races and developing motorsport talent across various categories for over 20 years, with their race winning heritage set in British F3, where the team established their foundations in the late 1990s.
Since then, victories in championships such as Formula 2, Formula Renault 3.5, British F4, FIAF3 European Championship, GP3 Series, Indy Lights and even Asian Le Mans Series have cemented the team’s winning reputation. This history of developing talent and younger drivers made Rodin Carlin the ideal partners to join X44 Vida Carbon Racing on their journey as a team that prioritises opportunity, and the next generation.
Stephanie Carlin, X44 Vida Carbon Racing Team Principal, said: "At Rodin Carlin, we are so excited to join forces with X44 Vida Carbon Racing and I am proud to be leading such an inclusive and diverse team into Season 3 of the series. As fits with our ethos at Rodin Carlin, it is a privilege to be able to provide opportunities for up-and-coming engineers, mechanics and technicians, who we believe are truly the next generation of promising talent in our industry."
X44 Vida Carbon are also excited to announce a refreshed driver line up, with up-and-coming Jamaican driver Fraser McConnell joining the team. Fraser, winner of the 2019 American Rallycross Championship, is the most competitively successful Jamaican driver in the history of international rallycross racing.
Making his rallycross debut in 2018, competing in North America’s ARX2 series, he recorded the fastest-out-of-the-box time in his first race and went on to win all of his heat races, starting his first finals in pole position. His maiden international racing campaign came just one year later, with Olsbergs MSE in the FIA RX2 Championship, where he finished 4th among the World’s best young rallycross drivers.
In 2021, Fraser graduated to the supercar class and became the first and only Jamaican to claim a supercar victory in the Rally X Nordic Championship, going on to debut in the Nitro Rallycross Series later that year.
Fraser will be joined by current X44 Vida Carbon Racing driver and reigning Extreme E champion Cristina Gutiérrez for the 2023 season. Gifted Spanish driver Cristina is a promising talent who is rewriting the rulebook for female drivers. Cristina has made history as the first woman to ever win the FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies, the second to win a stage in the Dakar Rally (2021) and the third to stand on a podium in the Dakar Rally (2022).
Fraser McConnell, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: "I am delighted to join X44 Vida Carbon Racing, and to be part of a Championship-winning team. I am so impressed with Cristina’s performances in the first two seasons of Extreme E and I can’t wait to drive alongside her; I am sure that we will work well together and I hope to learn a lot from her prior experience. It’s never a bad thing to race alongside a World Champion!
“I’m also looking forward to being part of a team that uses its platform to make the world a better place. I have always admired Lewis’s dedication to making our sport more inclusive and opening up opportunities for young talent, and I’m honoured to be part of that journey with him.”
Cristina Gutiérrez, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: “Following last season’s win, I am so excited to get back on track and give it my all again for the team. Fraser is an exciting young talent and I am looking forward to racing with him this year. I’m also looking forward to meeting the new team, and I feel privileged to be part of the journey towards a fairer, more inclusive industry. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”
Season 3 of the racing series will continue to see the team race at some of the most remote corners of the planet, to highlight the range of climate issues faced by different ecosystems.
The sport for purpose championship continues on its voyage, kicking off their Season 3 on March 11-12 at the Desert X Prix.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
X44 Vida Carbon Racing, the Extreme E team founded by seven-time Formula 1™ World Champion Sir Lewis Hamilton, has today announced its Season 3 line-up.
As a Black-owned team, X44 Vida Carbon Racing recognises that motorsport has traditionally been dominated by a narrow demographic, an issue that team owner Sir Lewis Hamilton has long been dedicated to addressing through The Hamilton Commission, his research project in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering, and his charitable foundation Mission44.
Off the back of their Extreme E Season 2 Championship win, his race team X44 Vida Carbon Racing now heads into Season 3 of the series with a renewed focus on breaking down these barriers and creating a more diverse and inclusive environment within the sport.
With this new focus, X44 Vida Carbon Racing hopes to inspire a new generation of drivers and fans to become involved in motorsport and push the industry forward, ensuring it is more reflective of the world we live in. Ultimately, the team believes that better diversity and inclusion is the only path towards the long-term success of the sport, with the most talented people chosen for the job, no matter their background.
To achieve these goals, X44 Vida Carbon Racing is taking a holistic look at how the team can create a more diverse and inclusive environment in motorsport by placing opportunity as its top priority.
Initial commitments include:
Partnering with Rodin Carlin to ensure the X44 Vida Carbon Racing team is made up of a diverse group of talented executives, mechanics and engineers, and building a team structure which places developing the next generation of motorsport talent front and centre.
Led by Team Principal Stephanie Carlin, long time Carlin executive and Team Principal of Carlin’s team in the upcoming F1 Academy, the new team structure will include;
Deputy Team Principal Stephanie Travers, an experienced engineer and motorsport executive, known for breaking barriers in Formula 1, including being the first Black woman on a Formula 1 race podium;
Race Engineer George Imafidon, a member of The Hamilton Commission who has worked within X44 Vida Carbon across the inaugural two seasons;
And a number of team members from a range of backgrounds.
Continuing to support Extreme E’s Racing for All initiative, founded in line with The Hamilton Commission findings, which allows each team in the series an additional team member, who wouldn’t otherwise have the opportunity, to get a first step on the career ladder. For Season 3, X44 Vida Carbon Racing will be introducing Calvin Langat who will take on the role of junior engineer.
Using the X44 Vida Carbon Racing platform to champion underrepresented voices, and ensure the world hears diverse perspectives on climate issues.
Working alongside team partners to ensure all activity is inclusive; from working with diverse content creators to tell sustainability stories from around the world – including the global south – to providing storytelling opportunities for the next generation of aspiring social media producers.
Sir Lewis Hamilton, X44 Vida Carbon Racing owner and seven-time Formula 1™ World Champion, said: “I’m so proud of the incredible work that my team has undertaken so far in Extreme E, and I can’t wait for us to take it to the next level this year.
"We know from the findings of The Hamilton Commission that the motorsport industry is an incredibly difficult place to break into, and I hope that X44 Vida Carbon Racing can be a powerful platform to provide opportunities to the next generation. It has never been more important that we, as an industry, take real action to move our sport forward, and X44 Vida Carbon’s new direction is one of the ways I am committing to making that genuine change.”
The new reset will be undertaken in partnership with Rodin Carlin, a name synonymous with rising talent and racing excellence. The team has been winning races and developing motorsport talent across various categories for over 20 years, with their race winning heritage set in British F3, where the team established their foundations in the late 1990s.
Since then, victories in championships such as Formula 2, Formula Renault 3.5, British F4, FIAF3 European Championship, GP3 Series, Indy Lights and even Asian Le Mans Series have cemented the team’s winning reputation. This history of developing talent and younger drivers made Rodin Carlin the ideal partners to join X44 Vida Carbon Racing on their journey as a team that prioritises opportunity, and the next generation.
Stephanie Carlin, X44 Vida Carbon Racing Team Principal, said: "At Rodin Carlin, we are so excited to join forces with X44 Vida Carbon Racing and I am proud to be leading such an inclusive and diverse team into Season 3 of the series. As fits with our ethos at Rodin Carlin, it is a privilege to be able to provide opportunities for up-and-coming engineers, mechanics and technicians, who we believe are truly the next generation of promising talent in our industry."
X44 Vida Carbon are also excited to announce a refreshed driver line up, with up-and-coming Jamaican driver Fraser McConnell joining the team. Fraser, winner of the 2019 American Rallycross Championship, is the most competitively successful Jamaican driver in the history of international rallycross racing.
Making his rallycross debut in 2018, competing in North America’s ARX2 series, he recorded the fastest-out-of-the-box time in his first race and went on to win all of his heat races, starting his first finals in pole position. His maiden international racing campaign came just one year later, with Olsbergs MSE in the FIA RX2 Championship, where he finished 4th among the World’s best young rallycross drivers.
In 2021, Fraser graduated to the supercar class and became the first and only Jamaican to claim a supercar victory in the Rally X Nordic Championship, going on to debut in the Nitro Rallycross Series later that year.
Fraser will be joined by current X44 Vida Carbon Racing driver and reigning Extreme E champion Cristina Gutiérrez for the 2023 season. Gifted Spanish driver Cristina is a promising talent who is rewriting the rulebook for female drivers. Cristina has made history as the first woman to ever win the FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies, the second to win a stage in the Dakar Rally (2021) and the third to stand on a podium in the Dakar Rally (2022).
Fraser McConnell, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: "I am delighted to join X44 Vida Carbon Racing, and to be part of a Championship-winning team. I am so impressed with Cristina’s performances in the first two seasons of Extreme E and I can’t wait to drive alongside her; I am sure that we will work well together and I hope to learn a lot from her prior experience. It’s never a bad thing to race alongside a World Champion!
“I’m also looking forward to being part of a team that uses its platform to make the world a better place. I have always admired Lewis’s dedication to making our sport more inclusive and opening up opportunities for young talent, and I’m honoured to be part of that journey with him.”
Cristina Gutiérrez, X44 Vida Carbon Racing, said: “Following last season’s win, I am so excited to get back on track and give it my all again for the team. Fraser is an exciting young talent and I am looking forward to racing with him this year. I’m also looking forward to meeting the new team, and I feel privileged to be part of the journey towards a fairer, more inclusive industry. I can’t wait to see what we can achieve together.”
Season 3 of the racing series will continue to see the team race at some of the most remote corners of the planet, to highlight the range of climate issues faced by different ecosystems.
The sport for purpose championship continues on its voyage, kicking off their Season 3 on March 11-12 at the Desert X Prix.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-03 Formula
One winner Heikki Kovalainen joins JBXE to partner Hedda Hosås for Extreme
E Season 3
After finishing third in Season 1, Jenson Button’s outfit dropped to ninth in the standings last term – despite securing a podium finish in NEOM Island X Prix I. JBXE will be aiming to bounce back with their new driver line-up in 2023 with their Nordic duo behind the wheel.
Jenson Button, Team Owner of JBXE, said: "Delighted to be announcing Heikki as our new male driver and also to have Hedda continue with the team! To bring such an established name from the world of motorsport and someone I had the pleasure of racing against in Formula One is brilliant for the team and the series.
“Following his move into the world of rally, it was a no brainer for the team to approach him and I’m over the moon he’s agreed to join the team and equally delighted to be keeping Hedda after she has continued to make great progress in the car, she fully deserves her place."
Kovalainen secured his single career victory at the 2008 Hungarian Grand Prix, becoming the 100th driver to win a Formula One race. The 41-year-old becomes the fourth F1 name to enter Extreme E as he joins team owners Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg and Jenson Button, with whom he is all too familiar.
In his early career, the Finn finished runner-up in the Formula One junior series, GP2, behind Rosberg, while he was a team-mate to Hamilton when competing for McLaren in Formula One during 2008 and 2009 – claiming his sole victory and pole position for the team which now also contests in Extreme E.
Kovalainen raced in Formula One from 2007 to 2013, where as well as McLaren, the Finn represented Renault, Team Lotus, Caterham and Lotus F1 Team, securing four podiums in total.
Following his success in Formula One, Kovalainen switched to the Japanese Super GT series in 2015, winning the championship a year later before changing lanes to take on the world of off-road motorsport full-time.
Driving for JBXE this season will not be Kovalainen’s first outing in off-road racing. That moment came when Kovalainen competed in the Race of Champions (ROC), a feat he would take on five times between 2004 and 2010. His debut saw Kovalainen overcome motorsport legends David Coulthard, Jean Alesi, Michael Schumacher and Sébastien Loeb on his way to victory at his very first attempt. The Finn also won the ROC Nations Cup with Marcus Grönholm in 2006.
Kovalainen's first foray into rallying in Japan came in 2016 and has since competed in the Japan Rally Championship, where he dominated the JN-2 class championship to clinch the title with a round to spare, the Japan Super Rally Series and made his World Rally Championship debut at last year’s Rally Japan in a WRC2 car.
Extreme E’s marks Kovalainen’s latest venture in off-road racing but first time in an all-electric championship, as he teams up with Hosås to take on some of the most challenging environments in motorsport.
Heikki Kovalainen, JBXE, said: "I'm really excited to join JBXE in the Extreme E series in Saudi Arabia! It's a great championship with great teams and drivers so I'm looking forward to competing with them.
“It'll be something new again in my career. After my Formula One stint I've done GTs as well as some rallying and I'm always looking for new challenges and looking forward to giving this a try. It'll be a steep learning curve no doubt but I'm up for it and hopefully we'll get up to speed quickly.”
Currently a Veloce Racing Development Driver, Hosås has competed in Extreme E for JBXE since the double-header in Sardinia last term. Hosås made her series debut at the opening round of Season 2 last year, stepping in for the injured Christine GZ at Veloce Racing in Saudi Arabia, before switching to Jenson Button’s outfit at the next round.
The Norwegian teamed up with Kevin Hansen in the number 22 car and the Scandinavian duo raced to third place in the NEOM Island X Prix I, marking the podium on her debut for JBXE.
Hosås’ early career comprised largely of motocross competition before making the transition to rallycross. More recently, she has been competing in the Norwegian Rallycross Championship and made a guest appearance in the Danish championship in 2021.
Hedda Hosås, JBXE, said: "Super excited to be driving again for my second season with JBXE in Extreme E. To have the support and expertise of both Jenson and Heikki, two ex F1 drivers, will help me to continue my development as a driver.
“NEOM was my first ever race in the series when I stepped in as a reserve driver last year, so incredibly excited to be going back to where it started for me. I'm looking forward to working with my new team mate Heikki, he has a lot of experience from F1 to rally so I am sure he will adapt to Extreme E very quickly."
Ali Russell, Chief Marketing Officer, said: I’m absolutely delighted to see such a strong pairing and how Extreme E has brought in a renowned former Formula One driver into our Championship, I cannot wait to see their journey start in NEOM for the Desert X Prix.
“With crossovers from both worlds of motorsport, this is fantastic to see for our series, reinforcing our approach to building a family with the best of motorsport to tackle climate change.”
Kovalainen will make his Extreme E debut alongside Hosås at the Desert X Prix in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, on 11-12 March.
As part of the all-electric series’ new sporting format, the Finn will have two shots at his first Extreme E victory, as all X Prix weekends become double-headers in Season 3, for double the racing but zero the impact on the environment.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
After finishing third in Season 1, Jenson Button’s outfit dropped to ninth in the standings last term – despite securing a podium finish in NEOM Island X Prix I. JBXE will be aiming to bounce back with their new driver line-up in 2023 with their Nordic duo behind the wheel.
Jenson Button, Team Owner of JBXE, said: "Delighted to be announcing Heikki as our new male driver and also to have Hedda continue with the team! To bring such an established name from the world of motorsport and someone I had the pleasure of racing against in Formula One is brilliant for the team and the series.
“Following his move into the world of rally, it was a no brainer for the team to approach him and I’m over the moon he’s agreed to join the team and equally delighted to be keeping Hedda after she has continued to make great progress in the car, she fully deserves her place."
Kovalainen secured his single career victory at the 2008 Hungarian Grand Prix, becoming the 100th driver to win a Formula One race. The 41-year-old becomes the fourth F1 name to enter Extreme E as he joins team owners Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg and Jenson Button, with whom he is all too familiar.
In his early career, the Finn finished runner-up in the Formula One junior series, GP2, behind Rosberg, while he was a team-mate to Hamilton when competing for McLaren in Formula One during 2008 and 2009 – claiming his sole victory and pole position for the team which now also contests in Extreme E.
Kovalainen raced in Formula One from 2007 to 2013, where as well as McLaren, the Finn represented Renault, Team Lotus, Caterham and Lotus F1 Team, securing four podiums in total.
Following his success in Formula One, Kovalainen switched to the Japanese Super GT series in 2015, winning the championship a year later before changing lanes to take on the world of off-road motorsport full-time.
Driving for JBXE this season will not be Kovalainen’s first outing in off-road racing. That moment came when Kovalainen competed in the Race of Champions (ROC), a feat he would take on five times between 2004 and 2010. His debut saw Kovalainen overcome motorsport legends David Coulthard, Jean Alesi, Michael Schumacher and Sébastien Loeb on his way to victory at his very first attempt. The Finn also won the ROC Nations Cup with Marcus Grönholm in 2006.
Kovalainen's first foray into rallying in Japan came in 2016 and has since competed in the Japan Rally Championship, where he dominated the JN-2 class championship to clinch the title with a round to spare, the Japan Super Rally Series and made his World Rally Championship debut at last year’s Rally Japan in a WRC2 car.
Extreme E’s marks Kovalainen’s latest venture in off-road racing but first time in an all-electric championship, as he teams up with Hosås to take on some of the most challenging environments in motorsport.
Heikki Kovalainen, JBXE, said: "I'm really excited to join JBXE in the Extreme E series in Saudi Arabia! It's a great championship with great teams and drivers so I'm looking forward to competing with them.
“It'll be something new again in my career. After my Formula One stint I've done GTs as well as some rallying and I'm always looking for new challenges and looking forward to giving this a try. It'll be a steep learning curve no doubt but I'm up for it and hopefully we'll get up to speed quickly.”
Currently a Veloce Racing Development Driver, Hosås has competed in Extreme E for JBXE since the double-header in Sardinia last term. Hosås made her series debut at the opening round of Season 2 last year, stepping in for the injured Christine GZ at Veloce Racing in Saudi Arabia, before switching to Jenson Button’s outfit at the next round.
The Norwegian teamed up with Kevin Hansen in the number 22 car and the Scandinavian duo raced to third place in the NEOM Island X Prix I, marking the podium on her debut for JBXE.
Hosås’ early career comprised largely of motocross competition before making the transition to rallycross. More recently, she has been competing in the Norwegian Rallycross Championship and made a guest appearance in the Danish championship in 2021.
Hedda Hosås, JBXE, said: "Super excited to be driving again for my second season with JBXE in Extreme E. To have the support and expertise of both Jenson and Heikki, two ex F1 drivers, will help me to continue my development as a driver.
“NEOM was my first ever race in the series when I stepped in as a reserve driver last year, so incredibly excited to be going back to where it started for me. I'm looking forward to working with my new team mate Heikki, he has a lot of experience from F1 to rally so I am sure he will adapt to Extreme E very quickly."
Ali Russell, Chief Marketing Officer, said: I’m absolutely delighted to see such a strong pairing and how Extreme E has brought in a renowned former Formula One driver into our Championship, I cannot wait to see their journey start in NEOM for the Desert X Prix.
“With crossovers from both worlds of motorsport, this is fantastic to see for our series, reinforcing our approach to building a family with the best of motorsport to tackle climate change.”
Kovalainen will make his Extreme E debut alongside Hosås at the Desert X Prix in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, on 11-12 March.
As part of the all-electric series’ new sporting format, the Finn will have two shots at his first Extreme E victory, as all X Prix weekends become double-headers in Season 3, for double the racing but zero the impact on the environment.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-03-01 New
driver line-up for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team as Mattias Ekström joins to
partner Laia Sanz for Extreme E Season 3
1 March 2023, London: ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team have unveiled their driver pairing for Extreme E Season 3, with Mattias Ekström teaming up with Laia Sanz for the Spanish outfit.
The Swede replaces Carlos Sainz Snr., as the two-time World Rally Champion is still recovering from a crash suffered in this year’s Dakar Rally, in which he fractured two vertebrae. Nevertheless, Sainz Snr. will travel to NEOM, Saudi Arabia, to work and help the team throughout the Desert X Prix later this month.
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team finished sixth in the standings in Season 1, scoring their first ever podium with third at the Arctic X Prix in Greenland. The Spanish team built upon their first season performance, and had the pace to secure third in the championship in Extreme E Season 2 - reaching four out of the five Finals and finishing on the podium twice – and will be keen to secure that long-awaited maiden victory in 2023.
Joan Orús, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Team Principal, said: “This season is very important for the entire ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team. We start the year in a tough situation with the news that Carlos will not be in the car in Saudi Arabia, but we still feel we have found the best possible driver to complete the team with Laia.
“Mattias Ekström is one of the best rallycross, track and off-road drivers in the world, and his illustrious racing record will surely help us further develop as a team. Our aim is to win and we know that we can fight for the title if we all do our work right.”
Carlos Sainz Snr., ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “Mattias is the best signing we could have hoped for, for this new season. I know him well and I trust him completely because I know what he is capable of: I believe he is one of the best and most multifaceted race drivers in the world, and therefore it is an honour that he gets to defend the colours of ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team. I have raced against him in Extreme E and know him as my teammate in Audi in the raids, so I am aware of his potential and strengths.
“I myself will do all I can to help the team achieve its goals. I will be attending the races and supporting them to get the best results we can. Regarding Laia, she keeps growing as a race driver and she knows the team throughout. I would also like to thank Acciona, Santander Private Banking, Asterra and all our sponsors for their trust in this sustainable, egalitarian, thrilling project again.”
Ekström joins the team after a prolific racing career in the Rallycross World Championship, which he conquered in 2016, and the DTM, which he won twice in 2004 and 2007. He is also familiar with Extreme E having raced during the maiden season in 2021, finishing on the podium at the Island X Prix for ABT CUPRA XE, and is a four-time winner of the Race of Champions, securing another victory earlier this year.
Mattias Ekström, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “Carlos is one of my childhood idols and since we are teammates in Audi Dakar project, we’ve become friends, so it feels special and even emotional to join his team at Extreme E. With me stepping in for Carlos, it will give him more time to recover from the accident he suffered at Dakar. I also know Laia since my very first Extreme E race and I’ve seen her progress a lot and she has shown her speed on track.
“Even though it was a very late decision to join the team, I will do my best to bring success to ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team this season and I hope we can fight for race wins and titles. I look forward on meeting all the team members in person and working with Carlos as my team boss, as I’m sure it will be a fun and valuable experience.”
Sanz will race for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team once again, and has established herself as one of the best female off-road and Extreme E drivers since debuting in 2021. This will be her third season with the team.
Prior to her switch to cars, Sanz was crowned Trial World Champion 14 times, Enduro World Champion on five occasions, and has finished the Dakar Rally thirteen times in a row between 2011 and 2023. The Spaniard marked her car debut in the 2022 Dakar Rally, and this year finished 14th in the 4x2 traction prototypes class.
The Spaniard finished ninth overall in the 2015 Dakar Rally, achieving the best result ever by a woman in the motorcycle category at the event.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “I am really looking forward to the start of the Extreme E season. I feel like I improved a lot last year, but I haven’t reached my maximum and I am convinced that this season I will be able to contribute even more to the team’s success.
"It will definitely be strange not having Carlos on my side in Saudi Arabia, but his advice will be as important as always to try and achieve the result we all want.
“I am thrilled to be working with Mattias, who doesn’t really need any introduction because he has achieved so much in his long career in motorsports.”
You can find out how ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s new driver line-up gets on at the season opener in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, on 11-12 March.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
1 March 2023, London: ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team have unveiled their driver pairing for Extreme E Season 3, with Mattias Ekström teaming up with Laia Sanz for the Spanish outfit.
The Swede replaces Carlos Sainz Snr., as the two-time World Rally Champion is still recovering from a crash suffered in this year’s Dakar Rally, in which he fractured two vertebrae. Nevertheless, Sainz Snr. will travel to NEOM, Saudi Arabia, to work and help the team throughout the Desert X Prix later this month.
ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team finished sixth in the standings in Season 1, scoring their first ever podium with third at the Arctic X Prix in Greenland. The Spanish team built upon their first season performance, and had the pace to secure third in the championship in Extreme E Season 2 - reaching four out of the five Finals and finishing on the podium twice – and will be keen to secure that long-awaited maiden victory in 2023.
Joan Orús, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s Team Principal, said: “This season is very important for the entire ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team. We start the year in a tough situation with the news that Carlos will not be in the car in Saudi Arabia, but we still feel we have found the best possible driver to complete the team with Laia.
“Mattias Ekström is one of the best rallycross, track and off-road drivers in the world, and his illustrious racing record will surely help us further develop as a team. Our aim is to win and we know that we can fight for the title if we all do our work right.”
Carlos Sainz Snr., ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “Mattias is the best signing we could have hoped for, for this new season. I know him well and I trust him completely because I know what he is capable of: I believe he is one of the best and most multifaceted race drivers in the world, and therefore it is an honour that he gets to defend the colours of ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team. I have raced against him in Extreme E and know him as my teammate in Audi in the raids, so I am aware of his potential and strengths.
“I myself will do all I can to help the team achieve its goals. I will be attending the races and supporting them to get the best results we can. Regarding Laia, she keeps growing as a race driver and she knows the team throughout. I would also like to thank Acciona, Santander Private Banking, Asterra and all our sponsors for their trust in this sustainable, egalitarian, thrilling project again.”
Ekström joins the team after a prolific racing career in the Rallycross World Championship, which he conquered in 2016, and the DTM, which he won twice in 2004 and 2007. He is also familiar with Extreme E having raced during the maiden season in 2021, finishing on the podium at the Island X Prix for ABT CUPRA XE, and is a four-time winner of the Race of Champions, securing another victory earlier this year.
Mattias Ekström, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “Carlos is one of my childhood idols and since we are teammates in Audi Dakar project, we’ve become friends, so it feels special and even emotional to join his team at Extreme E. With me stepping in for Carlos, it will give him more time to recover from the accident he suffered at Dakar. I also know Laia since my very first Extreme E race and I’ve seen her progress a lot and she has shown her speed on track.
“Even though it was a very late decision to join the team, I will do my best to bring success to ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team this season and I hope we can fight for race wins and titles. I look forward on meeting all the team members in person and working with Carlos as my team boss, as I’m sure it will be a fun and valuable experience.”
Sanz will race for ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team once again, and has established herself as one of the best female off-road and Extreme E drivers since debuting in 2021. This will be her third season with the team.
Prior to her switch to cars, Sanz was crowned Trial World Champion 14 times, Enduro World Champion on five occasions, and has finished the Dakar Rally thirteen times in a row between 2011 and 2023. The Spaniard marked her car debut in the 2022 Dakar Rally, and this year finished 14th in the 4x2 traction prototypes class.
The Spaniard finished ninth overall in the 2015 Dakar Rally, achieving the best result ever by a woman in the motorcycle category at the event.
Laia Sanz, ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team, said: “I am really looking forward to the start of the Extreme E season. I feel like I improved a lot last year, but I haven’t reached my maximum and I am convinced that this season I will be able to contribute even more to the team’s success.
"It will definitely be strange not having Carlos on my side in Saudi Arabia, but his advice will be as important as always to try and achieve the result we all want.
“I am thrilled to be working with Mattias, who doesn’t really need any introduction because he has achieved so much in his long career in motorsports.”
You can find out how ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team’s new driver line-up gets on at the season opener in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, on 11-12 March.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-02-27 Extreme
E reveals supercharged format Season 3 sporting format
As Extreme E Season 3 draws ever closer, the championship is delighted to reveal an exciting new racing format for 2023 – ultimately showcasing double the racing action with no additional carbon footprint.
Each X Prix will now be a doubleheader and play host to back-to-back rounds across the weekend. This means double the opportunity for wins, podiums and crucial points across the ten race calendar over the course of the campaign, crucially without adding any additional carbon footprint, in line with the series’ goals to keep carbon footprint to a minimum.
Likened to ‘Star Wars Pod Racing meets Dakar Rally’, the series devised an innovative format unlike any other for Seasons 1 and 2, delivering some breath-taking competition. Season 3 sees the championship take things even further, with an all-new format designed to bring even more wheel-to-wheel racing out on the course.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO at Extreme E, said: “Since launching Extreme E, we have worked hard to improve the level of racing out on course to ensure it is thrilling to watch with plenty of action.
“This new sporting format goes even further to deliver that, with now double the amount of racing action on some of the toughest courses in the world, leaving zero additional impact on the planet.
“To have a ten-race championship in Extreme E is a tantalising prospect for everyone on board and we believe the increased number of races will only enhance our series. We cannot wait for our opening races of the campaign in NEOM to get our biggest season yet underway for 2023.”
Season 3 will feature the pressure of five-car races in both Qualifying 1 and Qualifying 2. Qualifying Round 1 and Qualifying Round 2 will now both consist of two heats, five cars each. This means four wheel-to-wheel races will determine who comes out on top in what promises to be a nail-biting contest.
Intermediate Classification Points are awarded for Q1 and Q2, with a single Championship point awarded to the winners of each Heat – something that could prove crucial in the closing stages of the season.
This will be followed by the Grand Final, starring the top five teams from Qualifying, with the winner taking the top step of the podium. The remaining five teams will battle it out in Redemption Race, where all important Championship points are still at stake.
The excitement doesn’t stop there, with the doubleheader element, the above format will take place on both Saturday and Sunday, meaning two winners will be crowned at each race weekend.
James Taylor, Chief Championship Officer at Extreme E, added: “We’ve continuously improved the racing spectacle since launching Extreme E, but for Season 3 we wanted to create something spectacular and we feel this new sporting format achieves that.
“At each round, there will be double the opportunity for points and podiums - meaning a lot more to play for at each race weekend, while drivers and teams will have to navigate that racing tightrope of risk and reward to ensure they achieve the maximum result.
“Having a ten race championship should really close up those standings as the season progresses, meaning a thrilling Extreme E campaign should be in store for 2023 and we cannot wait for it to begin.”
Distances for each X Prix course and the number of laps will vary depending on the characteristics of the location, such as the terrain and the environmental conditions. What remains consistent is a driver changeover in the ‘Switch Zone’, taking place at the halfway point.
GridPlay will also be returning in Season 3, with grid positions for The Grand Final determined through the fan voting process. The teams that do not make it to The Grand Final must ‘gift’ their votes to their preferred team on The Grand Final grid. Grid position for the Redemption Race will be defined by the Intermediate Classification results, with the team that finished 6th choosing grid position first, followed by the team that finished 7th, and so on.
The Continental Traction Challenge will be returning in 2023 and will be crucial to the overall points total once again. The team that sets the fastest time, a combination of both the male and female drivers’ fastest times, through the allocated sector will win the Continental Traction Challenge and earn two championship points. This will run for each of the individual race days on Saturday and Sunday.
If any teams are tied in the Qualifying standings, their positioning will be determined by their time in the Continental Traction Challenge - the team with the quicker run through the allocated sector during Qualifying will receive the higher overall position.
An ‘ENOWA Hyperdrive’ boost will also be available to all drivers in the race. Activated when the driver presses a button on their steering wheel, they will enjoy an increase in power for a fixed amount of time – the timing for this will be a key decision.
With only weeks to go until the opening X Prix of the campaign, Extreme E Season 3 is all set to be another spectacular campaign.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
As Extreme E Season 3 draws ever closer, the championship is delighted to reveal an exciting new racing format for 2023 – ultimately showcasing double the racing action with no additional carbon footprint.
Each X Prix will now be a doubleheader and play host to back-to-back rounds across the weekend. This means double the opportunity for wins, podiums and crucial points across the ten race calendar over the course of the campaign, crucially without adding any additional carbon footprint, in line with the series’ goals to keep carbon footprint to a minimum.
Likened to ‘Star Wars Pod Racing meets Dakar Rally’, the series devised an innovative format unlike any other for Seasons 1 and 2, delivering some breath-taking competition. Season 3 sees the championship take things even further, with an all-new format designed to bring even more wheel-to-wheel racing out on the course.
Alejandro Agag, Founder and CEO at Extreme E, said: “Since launching Extreme E, we have worked hard to improve the level of racing out on course to ensure it is thrilling to watch with plenty of action.
“This new sporting format goes even further to deliver that, with now double the amount of racing action on some of the toughest courses in the world, leaving zero additional impact on the planet.
“To have a ten-race championship in Extreme E is a tantalising prospect for everyone on board and we believe the increased number of races will only enhance our series. We cannot wait for our opening races of the campaign in NEOM to get our biggest season yet underway for 2023.”
Season 3 will feature the pressure of five-car races in both Qualifying 1 and Qualifying 2. Qualifying Round 1 and Qualifying Round 2 will now both consist of two heats, five cars each. This means four wheel-to-wheel races will determine who comes out on top in what promises to be a nail-biting contest.
Intermediate Classification Points are awarded for Q1 and Q2, with a single Championship point awarded to the winners of each Heat – something that could prove crucial in the closing stages of the season.
This will be followed by the Grand Final, starring the top five teams from Qualifying, with the winner taking the top step of the podium. The remaining five teams will battle it out in Redemption Race, where all important Championship points are still at stake.
The excitement doesn’t stop there, with the doubleheader element, the above format will take place on both Saturday and Sunday, meaning two winners will be crowned at each race weekend.
James Taylor, Chief Championship Officer at Extreme E, added: “We’ve continuously improved the racing spectacle since launching Extreme E, but for Season 3 we wanted to create something spectacular and we feel this new sporting format achieves that.
“At each round, there will be double the opportunity for points and podiums - meaning a lot more to play for at each race weekend, while drivers and teams will have to navigate that racing tightrope of risk and reward to ensure they achieve the maximum result.
“Having a ten race championship should really close up those standings as the season progresses, meaning a thrilling Extreme E campaign should be in store for 2023 and we cannot wait for it to begin.”
Distances for each X Prix course and the number of laps will vary depending on the characteristics of the location, such as the terrain and the environmental conditions. What remains consistent is a driver changeover in the ‘Switch Zone’, taking place at the halfway point.
GridPlay will also be returning in Season 3, with grid positions for The Grand Final determined through the fan voting process. The teams that do not make it to The Grand Final must ‘gift’ their votes to their preferred team on The Grand Final grid. Grid position for the Redemption Race will be defined by the Intermediate Classification results, with the team that finished 6th choosing grid position first, followed by the team that finished 7th, and so on.
The Continental Traction Challenge will be returning in 2023 and will be crucial to the overall points total once again. The team that sets the fastest time, a combination of both the male and female drivers’ fastest times, through the allocated sector will win the Continental Traction Challenge and earn two championship points. This will run for each of the individual race days on Saturday and Sunday.
If any teams are tied in the Qualifying standings, their positioning will be determined by their time in the Continental Traction Challenge - the team with the quicker run through the allocated sector during Qualifying will receive the higher overall position.
An ‘ENOWA Hyperdrive’ boost will also be available to all drivers in the race. Activated when the driver presses a button on their steering wheel, they will enjoy an increase in power for a fixed amount of time – the timing for this will be a key decision.
With only weeks to go until the opening X Prix of the campaign, Extreme E Season 3 is all set to be another spectacular campaign.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-02-21 Rosberg
X Racing retains Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Johan Kristoffersson
for Extreme E Season 3
Inaugural Extreme E winners and Season 2 runners-up Rosberg X Racing (RXR) have retained their driver line-up for the forthcoming campaign. Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Johan Kristoffersson will be back behind the wheel for the team founded?by 2016 Formula 1™ World Champion Nico Rosberg.
RXR were narrowly denied back-to-back championship honours in the Extreme E Season 2 finale, when victory at the Uruguay Natural Energy X Prix last November went the way of Sir Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing.
Mechanical issues at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix meant the team failed to start in an Extreme E Final for the first time. This misfortune in the penultimate round, combined with falling short of a spot in the Final in Uruguay, saw Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Kristoffersson finish just two points behind Season 2 champions Sébastien Loeb and Cristina Gutiérrez.
Their pace in the RXR ODYSSEY 21 was never in doubt. Out of the five X Prix in the calendar, the Swedish duo finished as fastest qualifiers three times, and took the top step of the podium twice – at the season-opener in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, and the second round of the Sardinian double-header. What's more, the pair scored the quickest combined time in the Continental Traction Challenge in three out of the five race weekends.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, RXR, said: “Joining RXR last year was a dream come true. I learnt so much from Johan and the team, so to come back for another season is fantastic. I can’t wait to get behind the wheel and give it everything I’ve got. It’s going to be an epic season!”
Nico Rosberg, Rosberg X Racing Founder and CEO, said: “I’m super happy that Mikaela and Johan have signed for another season. With the experience and track record of both drivers, we will be prepared for the battle and hopefully make for some exciting action on track. Last year, we sadly didn't take home the championship trophy, but this year we plan on giving it our all!”
Johan Kristoffersson, RXR, said: “I am very happy to continue with RXR. I am confident that we can build on our experience and come back stronger than ever. Having Mikaela on my side for another season is an extra motivation. She’s a great person on and off the track and and she has really impressed me with her development and her will to work.”
Kristoffersson, who has now secured five wins for RXR across two seasons, is the most-decorated FIA World Rallycross Championship driver in history and secured his fifth World Rallycross crown in 2022. Since joining World Rallycross in 2014, Kristoffersson has amassed 35 wins and 50 podiums.
Alongside his Extreme E and World Rallycross championship wins, Kristoffersson has won titles in the Scandinavian Touring Car Championship (STCC), Superstars International Series, and Porsche Carrera Cup Scandinavia. The Swede brings extensive experience and skill in multiple disciplines to his Extreme E efforts, as RXR bid for their second title this year.
Prior to joining RXR, Åhlin-Kottulinsky competed for JBXE, claiming third place in the first-ever Extreme E season. The Swede started her career with Rallycross, before moving to the circuit to become the first woman to win a race in the German Scirocco R-Cup in 2014.
Only four years later, she made history with a race win in the Scandinavian Touring Car Championship as the first female driver to ever compete in the series. In 2021, she finished second in the STCC, having secured four wins during her time competing in the championship.
2022 marked a strong season for Åhlin-Kottulinsky in multiple disciplines, with first place finishes in the Rally Jameel and Sprint Challenge Scandinavia alongside third in Nitro Rallycross.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky also continues in her role as test driver for Extreme E’s Founding Partner Continental, helping to develop the CrossContact tyre for the series’ ODYSSEY 21 e-SUVs.
Kristoffersson and Åhlin-Kottulinsky’s success in the sport was acknowledged last year when both were awarded the Motor Prince Medal, alongside fellow Extreme E driver Timmy Hansen. Åhlin-Kottulinsky is the first ever female driver to receive this honour.
Kristoffersson and Åhlin-Kottulinsky will kick of their Extreme E Season 3 campaign in the NEOM season-opener on 11-12 March.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
Inaugural Extreme E winners and Season 2 runners-up Rosberg X Racing (RXR) have retained their driver line-up for the forthcoming campaign. Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Johan Kristoffersson will be back behind the wheel for the team founded?by 2016 Formula 1™ World Champion Nico Rosberg.
RXR were narrowly denied back-to-back championship honours in the Extreme E Season 2 finale, when victory at the Uruguay Natural Energy X Prix last November went the way of Sir Lewis Hamilton’s X44 Vida Carbon Racing.
Mechanical issues at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix meant the team failed to start in an Extreme E Final for the first time. This misfortune in the penultimate round, combined with falling short of a spot in the Final in Uruguay, saw Åhlin-Kottulinsky and Kristoffersson finish just two points behind Season 2 champions Sébastien Loeb and Cristina Gutiérrez.
Their pace in the RXR ODYSSEY 21 was never in doubt. Out of the five X Prix in the calendar, the Swedish duo finished as fastest qualifiers three times, and took the top step of the podium twice – at the season-opener in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, and the second round of the Sardinian double-header. What's more, the pair scored the quickest combined time in the Continental Traction Challenge in three out of the five race weekends.
Mikaela Åhlin-Kottulinsky, RXR, said: “Joining RXR last year was a dream come true. I learnt so much from Johan and the team, so to come back for another season is fantastic. I can’t wait to get behind the wheel and give it everything I’ve got. It’s going to be an epic season!”
Nico Rosberg, Rosberg X Racing Founder and CEO, said: “I’m super happy that Mikaela and Johan have signed for another season. With the experience and track record of both drivers, we will be prepared for the battle and hopefully make for some exciting action on track. Last year, we sadly didn't take home the championship trophy, but this year we plan on giving it our all!”
Johan Kristoffersson, RXR, said: “I am very happy to continue with RXR. I am confident that we can build on our experience and come back stronger than ever. Having Mikaela on my side for another season is an extra motivation. She’s a great person on and off the track and and she has really impressed me with her development and her will to work.”
Kristoffersson, who has now secured five wins for RXR across two seasons, is the most-decorated FIA World Rallycross Championship driver in history and secured his fifth World Rallycross crown in 2022. Since joining World Rallycross in 2014, Kristoffersson has amassed 35 wins and 50 podiums.
Alongside his Extreme E and World Rallycross championship wins, Kristoffersson has won titles in the Scandinavian Touring Car Championship (STCC), Superstars International Series, and Porsche Carrera Cup Scandinavia. The Swede brings extensive experience and skill in multiple disciplines to his Extreme E efforts, as RXR bid for their second title this year.
Prior to joining RXR, Åhlin-Kottulinsky competed for JBXE, claiming third place in the first-ever Extreme E season. The Swede started her career with Rallycross, before moving to the circuit to become the first woman to win a race in the German Scirocco R-Cup in 2014.
Only four years later, she made history with a race win in the Scandinavian Touring Car Championship as the first female driver to ever compete in the series. In 2021, she finished second in the STCC, having secured four wins during her time competing in the championship.
2022 marked a strong season for Åhlin-Kottulinsky in multiple disciplines, with first place finishes in the Rally Jameel and Sprint Challenge Scandinavia alongside third in Nitro Rallycross.
Åhlin-Kottulinsky also continues in her role as test driver for Extreme E’s Founding Partner Continental, helping to develop the CrossContact tyre for the series’ ODYSSEY 21 e-SUVs.
Kristoffersson and Åhlin-Kottulinsky’s success in the sport was acknowledged last year when both were awarded the Motor Prince Medal, alongside fellow Extreme E driver Timmy Hansen. Åhlin-Kottulinsky is the first ever female driver to receive this honour.
Kristoffersson and Åhlin-Kottulinsky will kick of their Extreme E Season 3 campaign in the NEOM season-opener on 11-12 March.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-02-14 Anticipation
builds with one month to go until Extreme E Season 3
After two years filled with drama, excitement, and plenty of on-course action, Extreme E is set to return with its biggest campaign yet, as the 2023 season begins in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, in a month’s time.
Season 3 will deliver fresh faces, an exciting new team as superstar DJ Carl Cox enters the championship, and even more thrilling wheel-to-wheel action showcased across some of the toughest and most environmentally challenged terrains on the planet.
As the pioneering championship continues to evolve, Extreme E Season 3 promises to captivate on and off the course, whilst delivering on its overall purpose to address climate change through sport, starting with the Desert X Prix on 11-12 March.
His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and the Saudi Motorsport Company, commented: “We are very excited to welcome Extreme E back to the Kingdom for the third consecutive year of action-packed racing. This successful partnership goes well beyond the sporting element, however, as it builds on our shared long-term commitment to build a more sustainable future for all.
"In addition, it perfectly aligns with one of the most important pillars of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to make the Kingdom a leader in the development and promotion of alternative energy sources and the preservation of the environment for future generations.”
Alejandro Agag, CEO and Founder of Extreme E, said: “Using our sport for purpose platform, Extreme E truly stepped things up another level last year and delivered some of the best racing action in the series so far. Now, we are ready to go and do it all again, with more ambition than ever before.
“Entering our third season, we are proud to welcome legendary DJ Carl Cox to the party and are excited to see his team, Carl Cox Racing, take on the rest of our star-studded grid. We have such a strong field in Extreme E for 2023, from our championship-winning outfits led by Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton, respectively, to strong challenger line-ups in the likes of NEOM McLaren Extreme E, Veloce Racing, and ABT CUPRA XE preparing to push competition boundaries.
“We are thrilled to open the season once again in NEOM. The ambition for NEOM and its targets are the same values that we have in Extreme E. NEOM’s principle of sustainability will provide an environment for living in harmony with nature, and all this meets the values of our championship.
“With all this excitement we cannot lose sight of our overall purpose – this championship is a race for the planet. We are determined to build on the success our platform has had in raising awareness of climate issues and we are ready to take things even further as we explore the sustainable solutions that we can all be part of.”
NEOM is the centrepiece of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to grow and diversify the Saudi economy and position the country as a leader in global sustainable development.
Built from the ground up, NEOM will be a new model for livability in the face of climate change, creating thriving businesses and reinventing environmental conservation. This will include the world’s first large-scale renewable energy system, pioneering the use of green hydrogen, as well as a world hub for clean energy generation research and innovation.
Beyond being a hub for sustainability, entrepreneurs and business leaders, NEOM is also set to be the home of adventure sports – creating active communities and a host destination for dynamic and challenging sports - Extreme E being among the first.
The sport infrastructure in NEOM will include the broadest spectrum of sports, from grassroots to high performance. NEOM's ambitions also include a strong focus on environmental conservation, in line with the project's plans to preserve 95 per cent of its natural environment.
NEOM’s involvement in Extreme E grew even further last season, becoming the title sponsor at NEOM McLaren Extreme E. The partnership with McLaren Electric Racing builds on NEOM’s growing involvement in electric motorsport and aims to establish NEOM as an innovative hub for global sport. A multi-year relationship with ENOWA was also announced, NEOM’s energy, water and hydrogen subsidiary, to introduce green hydrogen power to their global sustainable racing series.
ENOWA is the engine room for sustainable energy, water and hydrogen at NEOM. Green hydrogen is widely seen as the most promising green energy carrier for the future. This technology supports the transportation of renewable energy over long distances and the decarbonisation of major industries and infrastructure. Both work to implement innovative green hydrogen-based technologies to not only power the championship towards a 100 per cent “leave no trace” ambition but also to showcase the opportunities around this technology.
The Desert X Prix marks Extreme E’s third event in the region, pursuing the mutual goal of combining sustainability with global sporting events.
Jan Paterson, Managing Director of Sport at NEOM, added: “We are delighted to welcome Extreme E back to NEOM to kick off the 2023 season. Hosting Extreme E aligns with NEOM’s vision to become a unique host destination in the world for global sport by combining the principles of exciting competition with sustainable best practices."
The opening round of the season will take place on the shores of the Red Sea close to the location of the 2022 NEOM Beach Games, which hosted over 300 athletes from 25 countries.
Teams will once again face a mostly sandy terrain, though a very different challenge and location to the deserts of the series’ past two visits to Saudi Arabia.
Many of the drivers will have experienced a shoreline course before, at the Ocean X Prix in Senegal in 2021, but all will have to be at the top of their game to meet the unique demands of this terrain.
NEOM will start the global voyage of Season 3, highlighting the impact of climate change and human interference in one of the most remarkable and remote locations in the world, whilst promoting the adoption of electric vehicles in the fight to help preserve the environment and protect the planet.
Alongside returning to Saudi Arabia, Sardinia, and Chile, Extreme E will also make its debut in Scotland, and possibly the USA or Brazil.
With less than five weeks to go until the opening X Prix of the campaign, Extreme E Season 3 is all set to be another spectacular campaign.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
After two years filled with drama, excitement, and plenty of on-course action, Extreme E is set to return with its biggest campaign yet, as the 2023 season begins in NEOM, Saudi Arabia, in a month’s time.
Season 3 will deliver fresh faces, an exciting new team as superstar DJ Carl Cox enters the championship, and even more thrilling wheel-to-wheel action showcased across some of the toughest and most environmentally challenged terrains on the planet.
As the pioneering championship continues to evolve, Extreme E Season 3 promises to captivate on and off the course, whilst delivering on its overall purpose to address climate change through sport, starting with the Desert X Prix on 11-12 March.
His Royal Highness Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation and the Saudi Motorsport Company, commented: “We are very excited to welcome Extreme E back to the Kingdom for the third consecutive year of action-packed racing. This successful partnership goes well beyond the sporting element, however, as it builds on our shared long-term commitment to build a more sustainable future for all.
"In addition, it perfectly aligns with one of the most important pillars of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to make the Kingdom a leader in the development and promotion of alternative energy sources and the preservation of the environment for future generations.”
Alejandro Agag, CEO and Founder of Extreme E, said: “Using our sport for purpose platform, Extreme E truly stepped things up another level last year and delivered some of the best racing action in the series so far. Now, we are ready to go and do it all again, with more ambition than ever before.
“Entering our third season, we are proud to welcome legendary DJ Carl Cox to the party and are excited to see his team, Carl Cox Racing, take on the rest of our star-studded grid. We have such a strong field in Extreme E for 2023, from our championship-winning outfits led by Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton, respectively, to strong challenger line-ups in the likes of NEOM McLaren Extreme E, Veloce Racing, and ABT CUPRA XE preparing to push competition boundaries.
“We are thrilled to open the season once again in NEOM. The ambition for NEOM and its targets are the same values that we have in Extreme E. NEOM’s principle of sustainability will provide an environment for living in harmony with nature, and all this meets the values of our championship.
“With all this excitement we cannot lose sight of our overall purpose – this championship is a race for the planet. We are determined to build on the success our platform has had in raising awareness of climate issues and we are ready to take things even further as we explore the sustainable solutions that we can all be part of.”
NEOM is the centrepiece of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan to grow and diversify the Saudi economy and position the country as a leader in global sustainable development.
Built from the ground up, NEOM will be a new model for livability in the face of climate change, creating thriving businesses and reinventing environmental conservation. This will include the world’s first large-scale renewable energy system, pioneering the use of green hydrogen, as well as a world hub for clean energy generation research and innovation.
Beyond being a hub for sustainability, entrepreneurs and business leaders, NEOM is also set to be the home of adventure sports – creating active communities and a host destination for dynamic and challenging sports - Extreme E being among the first.
The sport infrastructure in NEOM will include the broadest spectrum of sports, from grassroots to high performance. NEOM's ambitions also include a strong focus on environmental conservation, in line with the project's plans to preserve 95 per cent of its natural environment.
NEOM’s involvement in Extreme E grew even further last season, becoming the title sponsor at NEOM McLaren Extreme E. The partnership with McLaren Electric Racing builds on NEOM’s growing involvement in electric motorsport and aims to establish NEOM as an innovative hub for global sport. A multi-year relationship with ENOWA was also announced, NEOM’s energy, water and hydrogen subsidiary, to introduce green hydrogen power to their global sustainable racing series.
ENOWA is the engine room for sustainable energy, water and hydrogen at NEOM. Green hydrogen is widely seen as the most promising green energy carrier for the future. This technology supports the transportation of renewable energy over long distances and the decarbonisation of major industries and infrastructure. Both work to implement innovative green hydrogen-based technologies to not only power the championship towards a 100 per cent “leave no trace” ambition but also to showcase the opportunities around this technology.
The Desert X Prix marks Extreme E’s third event in the region, pursuing the mutual goal of combining sustainability with global sporting events.
Jan Paterson, Managing Director of Sport at NEOM, added: “We are delighted to welcome Extreme E back to NEOM to kick off the 2023 season. Hosting Extreme E aligns with NEOM’s vision to become a unique host destination in the world for global sport by combining the principles of exciting competition with sustainable best practices."
The opening round of the season will take place on the shores of the Red Sea close to the location of the 2022 NEOM Beach Games, which hosted over 300 athletes from 25 countries.
Teams will once again face a mostly sandy terrain, though a very different challenge and location to the deserts of the series’ past two visits to Saudi Arabia.
Many of the drivers will have experienced a shoreline course before, at the Ocean X Prix in Senegal in 2021, but all will have to be at the top of their game to meet the unique demands of this terrain.
NEOM will start the global voyage of Season 3, highlighting the impact of climate change and human interference in one of the most remarkable and remote locations in the world, whilst promoting the adoption of electric vehicles in the fight to help preserve the environment and protect the planet.
Alongside returning to Saudi Arabia, Sardinia, and Chile, Extreme E will also make its debut in Scotland, and possibly the USA or Brazil.
With less than five weeks to go until the opening X Prix of the campaign, Extreme E Season 3 is all set to be another spectacular campaign.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-02-07 Turning
racing tyres into living space: Founding Partner Continental opens basketball
court made from recycled Extreme E tyres
Founding Partner of Extreme E, Continental Tyres, has opened a cutting-edge and sustainably built basketball court in the Linden-Süd district of Hanover, Germany.
This is no ordinary court – the innovative new build has been constructed using 200 recycled racing tyres from the first season of the Extreme E electric racing series, which Continental supports as a main sponsor.
Since its inception, a core value of Extreme E and its supporting partners has been sustainability, which has been actioned through examples such as electrification, legacy programmes, and a Scientific Committee. Being able to give new life to these old racing tyres is a further impactful development to this goal and demonstrates the significance of a major manufacturer adapting to match a purpose driven mission.
Ali Russell, Chief Marketing Officer at Extreme E, said: “We are delighted with this initiative from our partner Continental, which pushes the boundaries of how we can re-purpose resources in a way that will benefit so many people.
“Over the past two Extreme E season campaigns, it has become clear that both creative thinking and a great deal of ingenuity is required to deliver the solutions necessary to combat the climate crisis. This fantastic initiative certainly achieves that.”
Continental’s partnership with Extreme E has already seen the launch of two generations of the pioneering CrossContact racing tyre – credited as a fundamental development in pushing the boundaries in tyre technology.
In its second year of partnership, Continental launched its most sustainable tyre ever, the second generation of the Extreme E CrossContact.
The application of old PET bottles, making up 100% of the tyre carcass, and a new silica material created from rice husks, a waste product from agriculture, pushes the boundaries in tyre technology ahead of plans to integrate the new technology into volume production of various Continental premium tyres later this year.
This high-level basketball court has taken this innovation one step further, turning old tyres into the foundation of the sporting and social space, in line with the aim of “turning racing tyres into living space”. This, in sum, strives to give people a lively place to play, burn off energy, and train.
Christian Kötz, Member of the Executive Board Tires at Continental, said: “These tyres raced in Saudi Arabia, Greenland, and Senegal. Now, in the form of a basketball court, they are helping to bring young people together and get them excited about sport.
“We’re delighted that the Extreme E tyres are getting a second life after the end of their racing career. Circularity – in this case the reuse and continued use of tyres – is an important area, and one in which Continental is working hard.”
The court was created as part of a collaboration between the city of Hanover, property construction company Hanova, the BasKIDball project, the VIA Linden, and Serve the City Hannover associations and the SV Linden 07 club, on whose premises the half-court has been built. Elastomer processing company REGUPOL handled the transformation of the tyres into rubber paving blocks, and the court was assembled by Hanover-based company Kretschmer.
Belit Onay, Hanover’s Mayor, added: “We would like to thank Continental and all those involved for this new basketball court, which creates a new space for kids and young people and brings sport and sustainability together in the same conversation.
“Initiatives like this show what is possible when so many people help to turn a community project into reality in our city. I’m grateful for all their contributions.”
Christian Kötz and Belit Onay led the official opening. After the first few passes on the court, Kötz and Onay then handed it over to the children from the BasKIDball project, a Germany-wide initiative that aims to use sport to break through barriers and shine the spotlight on the social side of group participation.
BasKIDball stands for values such as team spirit and trust, health, and fairness. With the social aspect playing a central role, it is fitting that Continental will support this approach with the help of Extreme E resources, as all involved stand for progression, sustainability and equality.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
Founding Partner of Extreme E, Continental Tyres, has opened a cutting-edge and sustainably built basketball court in the Linden-Süd district of Hanover, Germany.
This is no ordinary court – the innovative new build has been constructed using 200 recycled racing tyres from the first season of the Extreme E electric racing series, which Continental supports as a main sponsor.
Since its inception, a core value of Extreme E and its supporting partners has been sustainability, which has been actioned through examples such as electrification, legacy programmes, and a Scientific Committee. Being able to give new life to these old racing tyres is a further impactful development to this goal and demonstrates the significance of a major manufacturer adapting to match a purpose driven mission.
Ali Russell, Chief Marketing Officer at Extreme E, said: “We are delighted with this initiative from our partner Continental, which pushes the boundaries of how we can re-purpose resources in a way that will benefit so many people.
“Over the past two Extreme E season campaigns, it has become clear that both creative thinking and a great deal of ingenuity is required to deliver the solutions necessary to combat the climate crisis. This fantastic initiative certainly achieves that.”
Continental’s partnership with Extreme E has already seen the launch of two generations of the pioneering CrossContact racing tyre – credited as a fundamental development in pushing the boundaries in tyre technology.
In its second year of partnership, Continental launched its most sustainable tyre ever, the second generation of the Extreme E CrossContact.
The application of old PET bottles, making up 100% of the tyre carcass, and a new silica material created from rice husks, a waste product from agriculture, pushes the boundaries in tyre technology ahead of plans to integrate the new technology into volume production of various Continental premium tyres later this year.
This high-level basketball court has taken this innovation one step further, turning old tyres into the foundation of the sporting and social space, in line with the aim of “turning racing tyres into living space”. This, in sum, strives to give people a lively place to play, burn off energy, and train.
Christian Kötz, Member of the Executive Board Tires at Continental, said: “These tyres raced in Saudi Arabia, Greenland, and Senegal. Now, in the form of a basketball court, they are helping to bring young people together and get them excited about sport.
“We’re delighted that the Extreme E tyres are getting a second life after the end of their racing career. Circularity – in this case the reuse and continued use of tyres – is an important area, and one in which Continental is working hard.”
The court was created as part of a collaboration between the city of Hanover, property construction company Hanova, the BasKIDball project, the VIA Linden, and Serve the City Hannover associations and the SV Linden 07 club, on whose premises the half-court has been built. Elastomer processing company REGUPOL handled the transformation of the tyres into rubber paving blocks, and the court was assembled by Hanover-based company Kretschmer.
Belit Onay, Hanover’s Mayor, added: “We would like to thank Continental and all those involved for this new basketball court, which creates a new space for kids and young people and brings sport and sustainability together in the same conversation.
“Initiatives like this show what is possible when so many people help to turn a community project into reality in our city. I’m grateful for all their contributions.”
Christian Kötz and Belit Onay led the official opening. After the first few passes on the court, Kötz and Onay then handed it over to the children from the BasKIDball project, a Germany-wide initiative that aims to use sport to break through barriers and shine the spotlight on the social side of group participation.
BasKIDball stands for values such as team spirit and trust, health, and fairness. With the social aspect playing a central role, it is fitting that Continental will support this approach with the help of Extreme E resources, as all involved stand for progression, sustainability and equality.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
23-01-27 ABT
CUPRA XE confirms Klara Andersson and Nasser Al-Attiyah for Extreme E Season
3ABT CUPRA XE have confirmed that Klara Andersson will be continuing
alongside five-time Dakar winner Nasser Al-Attiyah for the team in Extreme
E Season 3.
The young Swede secures her spot after two impressive performances at the end of last season whilst deputising for Jutta Kleinschmidt. A podium finish on debut at the penultimate round in Chile, and the team’s maiden victory at the season finale in Uruguay, saw Andersson and ABT CUPRA XE finish the year as they mean to go on.
Having completed its second season, which culminated in sixth-place in the championship standings, the ABT CUPRA XE team is focused on achieving more podiums in its third Extreme E campaign in 2023.
Klara Andersson, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “I am super excited to join ABT CUPRA XE for the full Extreme E season in 2023.
“It is an amazing team - I have done two races already for ABT CUPRA XE stepping in for Jutta, and those went very well. I am extremely excited to join full-time and race alongside Nasser again. He’s an amazing driver and person overall, and so I am really happy to continue the momentum that we got last year in Chile and Uruguay.?
“We want to fight for the Extreme E title. That’s what every team wants and we will do our best to perform as well as we can."
Nasser Al-Attiyah, ABT CUPRA XE, said: "We are ready for the 2023 season and I am really happy that Klara is joining me behind the wheel at ABT CUPRA XE.
"I am very excited and really looking forward to fighting for the championship this year. We have updated the livery - which looks amazing - and we are ready to drive, get out there on track and take some wins for the team."
The Swedish-Qatari duo will be looking to make an impact, and a new livery for their ODYSSEY 21 will certainly be turning heads. A multi-layered and chameleonic body colour, combining a deep purple and neon yellow, will take to the Extreme E grid for Season 3.
This season, the team’s car features an updated livery to match the UrbanRebel, the ABT CUPRA GEN3 Formula E car and the CUPRA e-Racer. This is testament to how Extreme E is enhancing CUPRA’s electrification research while promoting electrification, sustainability, environmental awareness, and gender equality.
The Tavascan XE hints at CUPRA’s design for the future series production CUPRA Tavascan, the brand’s second 100% electric model, which will hit European and overseas markets in 2024.
Xavi Serra, Head of CUPRA Racing, said: “Our second season saw us make serious progress in terms of understanding how we work best as a team. We ended the season with a run of strong results, and we’re keen to build on that. Our goals are clear: We are here to fight for the titles. Adding Klara to the team provides race win experience, and I can’t wait to see both her and Nasser out competing once more.”
Now in his second season for ABT CUPRA XE, five-time Dakar winner Al-Attiyah continues alongside World RX rising star Andersson.
Al-Attiyah has seen great success during his time in motorsport, becoming the 2006 Production World Rally Champion, WRC-2 Champion in 2014 and 2015, a 16-time Middle East Rally Champion, five times winner of the FIA World Cup for Cross-County Rallies, and winner of the Dakar in 2011, 2015, 2019, 2022 and this year’s 2023 edition.
Getting behind the wheel at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix marked a long-awaited series debut for the Swedish protégé, having made her first appearance at the Season 1 Rookie Test with ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team.
As well as competing in Extreme E last year, Andersson enjoyed a strong 2022 season. The 22-year-old currently competes in World RX as the first permanent female competitor in WRX history with Construction Equipment Dealer Team.
Andersson recorded her best WRX result to date by finishing third in Portugal – becoming the first-ever female driver to step on the podium in the championship's history.
The Tavascan XE complete with new livery will be showcased with Andersson behind the wheel during the Race of Champions this weekend (28-29 January) in Pite Havsbad, Sweden.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com
The young Swede secures her spot after two impressive performances at the end of last season whilst deputising for Jutta Kleinschmidt. A podium finish on debut at the penultimate round in Chile, and the team’s maiden victory at the season finale in Uruguay, saw Andersson and ABT CUPRA XE finish the year as they mean to go on.
Having completed its second season, which culminated in sixth-place in the championship standings, the ABT CUPRA XE team is focused on achieving more podiums in its third Extreme E campaign in 2023.
Klara Andersson, ABT CUPRA XE, said: “I am super excited to join ABT CUPRA XE for the full Extreme E season in 2023.
“It is an amazing team - I have done two races already for ABT CUPRA XE stepping in for Jutta, and those went very well. I am extremely excited to join full-time and race alongside Nasser again. He’s an amazing driver and person overall, and so I am really happy to continue the momentum that we got last year in Chile and Uruguay.?
“We want to fight for the Extreme E title. That’s what every team wants and we will do our best to perform as well as we can."
Nasser Al-Attiyah, ABT CUPRA XE, said: "We are ready for the 2023 season and I am really happy that Klara is joining me behind the wheel at ABT CUPRA XE.
"I am very excited and really looking forward to fighting for the championship this year. We have updated the livery - which looks amazing - and we are ready to drive, get out there on track and take some wins for the team."
The Swedish-Qatari duo will be looking to make an impact, and a new livery for their ODYSSEY 21 will certainly be turning heads. A multi-layered and chameleonic body colour, combining a deep purple and neon yellow, will take to the Extreme E grid for Season 3.
This season, the team’s car features an updated livery to match the UrbanRebel, the ABT CUPRA GEN3 Formula E car and the CUPRA e-Racer. This is testament to how Extreme E is enhancing CUPRA’s electrification research while promoting electrification, sustainability, environmental awareness, and gender equality.
The Tavascan XE hints at CUPRA’s design for the future series production CUPRA Tavascan, the brand’s second 100% electric model, which will hit European and overseas markets in 2024.
Xavi Serra, Head of CUPRA Racing, said: “Our second season saw us make serious progress in terms of understanding how we work best as a team. We ended the season with a run of strong results, and we’re keen to build on that. Our goals are clear: We are here to fight for the titles. Adding Klara to the team provides race win experience, and I can’t wait to see both her and Nasser out competing once more.”
Now in his second season for ABT CUPRA XE, five-time Dakar winner Al-Attiyah continues alongside World RX rising star Andersson.
Al-Attiyah has seen great success during his time in motorsport, becoming the 2006 Production World Rally Champion, WRC-2 Champion in 2014 and 2015, a 16-time Middle East Rally Champion, five times winner of the FIA World Cup for Cross-County Rallies, and winner of the Dakar in 2011, 2015, 2019, 2022 and this year’s 2023 edition.
Getting behind the wheel at the Antofagasta Minerals Copper X Prix marked a long-awaited series debut for the Swedish protégé, having made her first appearance at the Season 1 Rookie Test with ACCIONA | SAINZ XE Team.
As well as competing in Extreme E last year, Andersson enjoyed a strong 2022 season. The 22-year-old currently competes in World RX as the first permanent female competitor in WRX history with Construction Equipment Dealer Team.
Andersson recorded her best WRX result to date by finishing third in Portugal – becoming the first-ever female driver to step on the podium in the championship's history.
The Tavascan XE complete with new livery will be showcased with Andersson behind the wheel during the Race of Champions this weekend (28-29 January) in Pite Havsbad, Sweden.
To learn more about Extreme E, visit - www.Extreme-E.com