Formula E has confirmed a number of tweaks to its race and qualifying format for the upcoming Season Five which kicks off in December.
With an expanded grid of 22 cars, 'Super Pole' will now feature an additional car, therefore the top six cars will battle it out for pole position.
The all-electric series, which will no longer feature mid-race car swaps thanks to its new Gen2 car which is capable of completing an entire race distance on a single charge, will introduce a higher power mode which can be used at certain times during the race.
Instead of the standard 200kW mode, drivers will be able to tactically deploy 225kW of power a set number of times per race and for a set duration – this will be determined by the FIA beforehand – within a certain activation zone.
The activation zone will be clearly visible and marked out on the circuit for fans trackside and those watching on TV. The two power modes on each car will be indicated using different coloured LEDs on the halo head protection device.
FANBOOST will remain in place giving three fan-voted drivers access to 250kW of power during the race.
Race distances will no longer be measured using a pre-defined number of laps, but will instead run to a strict time limit of 45-minutes plus one lap to reach the chequered flag.
Their will no longer be a prize for fastest lap, with points instead being awarded to the most efficient driver classified in the top-five positions – rewarding the driver who has used the least amount of energy.
Speaking about the changes series boss Alejandro Agag said: "The ABB FIA Formula E Championship has always produced highly-competitive and unpredictable racing. Formula E is synonymous with innovation and pioneering technology – that’s exactly what we’ll be seeing again next season with the step-up in performance and efficiency of the futuristic next generation car, as well as trialling unique and radical concepts to usher in a new era of Formula E.
"The new format and split levels of power being introduced for season five will add an extra strategic element and continue to offer intense and exciting competition between some of the most talented drivers and biggest brands in motorsport.
"I’m looking forward to seeing the new cars and format in action against the backdrop of iconic city skylines – starting in Ad Diriyah in December."
