The ABB FIA Formula E Championship, the only racing series to use all-electric vehicles, takes technology to the streets in cities around the world, some of which are facing complex mobility challenges. The collaboration with BMW i Andretti Motorsport demonstrates Magna's commitment to making a positive social and environmental impact, from electric and autonomous vehicles to smart cities.
Magna's involvement in Formula E marks the most significant engagement with a motorsports team in the company's history. The rationale is simple – it serves as a real-world opportunity to make a difference.
"Working with BMW i Andretti Motorsport on Formula E is a great fit and one of the many opportunities we are taking advantage of to help ensure we are building the right foundation for the new mobility landscape," said Swamy Kotagiri, Magna's CTO. "Formula E is already demonstrating how exciting, thrilling and fascinating electromobility can be."
Formula E provides a powerful platform to advance Magna's engagement with startups, city leaders, universities and consumers in city centers. In conjunction with the race schedule, Magna will engage with a broad range of leaders about each city's specific mobility challenges. Paired with existing research, these first-hand conversations will inform future development and collaboration on mobility solutions.
Pieter Nota, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Sales and Brand BMW, said: "BMW stands for innovation leadership and we are pioneers when it comes to electromobility. As ‘Official Vehicle Partner', we've been involved with Formula E from the start, in order actively to help shape the series. BMW i and Formula E share the same values: pioneering spirit and innovation. We are looking forward to the new season, together with Magna."
Season 5 begins with a race in Saudi Arabia on December 15, 2018, and runs through July 2019 with stops in Hong Kong, Paris and New York City, among other locations around the world. Stay up-to-date on the team's drivers, schedules, and race season by visiting magna.com/formulae.
Image: Magna is joining BMW i Andretti Motorsport as a primary partner for their Formula E team. Formula E provides a powerful platform to advance Magna's engagement with startups, city leaders, universities and consumers in city centers.