This is the world’s first two seater electric racer

The chassis is bespoke for this unique two-seater layout, designed and manufactured by Delta Cosworth in Silverstone. The eLNO battery from Johnson Matthey features a family of nickel-rich cathode materials, enabling a 20 per cent greater battery density than contemporary equivalents. The 47kWh unit packs 200Wh/kg of cell energy density and provides power to the 250kW electric drivetrain at a 585-volt output. 

“We are excited to unveil the world’s first electric two-seater formula race car, the result of a very productive partnership with Johnson Matthey. Delivered in under six months, it is a fantastic achievement by all those involved,” said Sylvain Filippi, Managing Director & Chief Technology Officer at Envision Virgin Racing Formula E Team. 

“The two-seater formula race car has been specifically designed to test and push the battery performance to its extreme. This battery technology is unlike anything else we’ve seen before, and we wanted to create a prototype car that would really put it through its paces and showcase its huge potential.”

This technology is expected to carry over associated improvements in performance and long-term capacity retention to passenger cars over the coming years. For now, a Formula racer was deemed the perfect lab in which to push the technology to its limits. Two production facilities are planned, with one in Poland under construction due to be completed next year. 

“As the very first public application of our eLNO technology, the two-seater race car will provide a stunning next step in bringing our ground-breaking technology to market,” said Christian Gϋnther, Battery Materials Sector Chief Executive, Johnson Matthey.