Porsche is one of the brands that has made the most progress in terms of sustainability and electric mobility with the development of new technologies. One of the things that strengthens their environmental commitment is the participation at Formula E, where despite competing at a high level, they have not yet managed to reach the top.
Thomas Laudenbach, Porsche’s Vice President of Motorsport, acknowledged that season 7 did not meet the goals they had set, so in the campaign that is about to begin in January 2022, the goal is to fight for the trophy.
The company’s executives also admitted that after completing their pact with the electric single-seater series, they must hold a conclave to decide whether or not to continue in the tournament, which is recognized as a World Championship by the International Automobile Federation (FIA).
Related content: Oliver Blume: The Great Driving Force Behind Electrification at Porsche
Since Porsche joined Formula E, three of its most powerful German rivals have announced to leave the category: Audi, BMW and, most recently, Mercedes. The latter will not be around for the debut of the third-generation cars in 2023, which, according to the competition’s organizers, will be the most efficient vehicles in the world.
“For us, it’s clear that the time is going to come to decide on the future of our commitment to Formula E. Over the course of the next year, we will decide whether we want to continue, whether we want to extend it,” Laudenbach said at a meeting with the media.
On the Road to F1?
The Porsche executive’s statements come amid growing rumors that the brand could return to Formula 1 thanks to new engine regulations in 2026, as Volkswagen Group has been involved in recent discussions with the FIA and the current manufacturers.
“It’s no secret that we are thinking about it and the factors for Porsche to join F1 are based on the fact that there needs to be a bigger push for increased electrification of powertrain elements and this is becoming a reality,” Laudenbach added.
Image: Porsche Newsroom
In case Porsche makes a future commitment to the grid in the world’s top motorsport category, Laudenbach said it would directly influence the decision on the future of the Formula E program.
He noted that when they decided on the commitments, including Formula E season 10, entry into F1 was not as yet part of the plans so they are two entirely separate things.
However, Laudenbach revealed that if they do opt to enter the grand tour, it will certainly have repercussions for the other programs Porsche is involved in.
Written by I Jhonattan González
