Following a World Motor Sport Council meeting today, it has been confirmed that Bridgestone, the renowned tyre supplier, is among the tender winners for the production of the chassis, battery, and tyres of the next-generation Formula E Gen4 cars. This marks Bridgestone’s return to world championship single-seater competition after its long-standing association with Formula 1 ended in 2010. While Bridgestone had placed a recent bid to supply tyres in F1, the tender process awarded the contract to Pirelli until at least 2027. As a result, Bridgestone will now take over from Hankook as the sole tyre supplier for Formula E, providing two different types of tyres for the Gen4 cars.
For the upcoming 2026-2027 season, Bridgestone will produce a ‘baseline’ rubber tyre designed to offer sufficient grip for safe racing in light rain. Additionally, they will supply a ‘typhoon’ rubber tyre that will be mandatory for races in heavy rain. This decision means that Formula E teams and drivers will have access to two different types of tyres during the same event for the first time in the championship’s nine-season history. This move aims to enhance racing performance and safety in varying weather conditions.
In addition to Bridgestone’s involvement, several other companies were chosen to contribute to the Gen4 car’s development. Podium Advanced Technologies will provide the battery, leveraging its previous experience in the World Endurance Championship with Glickenhaus. Marelli will be responsible for supplying the front powertrain, while Spark Racing Technologies will continue to provide the chassis, as they have done since Formula E’s inception in 2014.
The selection process for these companies involved a thorough evaluation of technical specifications, manufacturing capabilities, proposed on-event support, and inspections of each candidate’s premises, according to the FIA. These stringent measures ensure that the chosen companies can meet the demands and requirements of the Formula E championship.
Compared to the current Gen3 car, the Gen4 machine will feature significant improvements and modifications. The power output will increase substantially, peaking at 600kW, nearly double the current rate. This boost in power will elevate the excitement and competitiveness of the races. Moreover, a greater emphasis will be placed on the car’s aerodynamics, with the creation of high and low downforce configurations. The width and weight of the Gen4 car will also increase by 100mm and 76kg respectively, further enhancing its performance capabilities.
The selection of these companies and the upcoming changes to the Gen4 car mark an important milestone for Formula E. With the inclusion of two tyre types and advancements in power, aerodynamics, and overall performance, the championship is set to captivate racing enthusiasts and continue its mission to promote sustainable electric mobility.
The introduction of Bridgestone to the Formula E family brings a wealth of experience and expertise. Their return to single-seater competition reaffirms the significance and allure of the electric championship. As Formula E embraces the future of motorsport, the Gen4 cars and their innovative components promise to deliver thrilling racing action while contributing to the ongoing development of sustainable technologies.
Overall, the selections made by the FIA and the advancements highlighted for the Gen4 cars demonstrate the commitment to innovation, performance, and safety within the Formula E championship. Motorsport enthusiasts and fans of sustainable technologies have much to anticipate as the countdown begins for the 2026-2027 season.
