The fourth round of the 2019/20 ABB FIA Formula E Championship season next weekend takes the Mercedes-Benz EQ Formula E Team to Mexico City. There are two main challenges awaiting the team there, namely a new track layout and the high altitude at which the 2020 CBMM Niobium Mexico City E-Prix will be contested.
The race at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez is one of the few E-Prix that is contested on a permanent circuit. Mexico has been a regular destination on the Formula E racing calendar since the 2015/16 season, which makes this year’s event the fifth running of the electric racing competition there.
The 2020 E-Prix will take place on a circuit that is 513 metres (i.e. 25 percent) longer than previously. The new configuration is 2,606 metres in length, consisting of eight left-hand and eight right-hand turns and offering a mix of long straights and a tight stadium section. 55% of the track distance is driven at full throttle.
The changes made include the removal of two chicanes and extension by an additional sector. At an altitude of more than 2,000 metres above sea level, Mexico is the highest venue of the entire season.
Quotes ahead of the race in Mexico
Ian James (Team Principal):
“We are all looking forward to racing in Mexico City. The passion and excitement of the local fans is unreal and it promises a phenomenal experience for everyone. The new track layout will provide a fresh challenge for all teams. We expect to see a very fast and close race. But as always, the right energy management strategy will play a significant role.”
“To finish with both cars in the points again, it will be crucial for us to adapt to the track as quickly as possible. As always, we need to focus on controlling the controllable.”
Stoffel Vandoorne:
“Mexico is one of the most beautiful venues on the racing calendar. That’s why I’m so happy to be going back there again, especially having just taken the lead in the championship. The fans are incredibly passionate and come along in droves every year. It’s always a very special feeling to drive through the stadium and soak up the atmosphere. By contrast with last year, we can expect a different track layout with more overtaking opportunities this time. I’m convinced that is going to make the race even more interesting, especially in terms of energy management. Hopefully, we can do a good job again and score as many points as possible.”
Nyck de Vries:
“Several weeks have passed since Santiago, and I am eager to get back in the car in Mexico. Our debut season has been encouraging so far, but we realise that this championship is extremely competitive and that everyone is pretty much on the same level. This is especially true in qualifying, where we are obliged to compete in the most difficult groups again. At the same time, I’m still a rookie in this series and I’m learning step by step. That’s why it’s important not to be distracted and to set about the race weekend in the same way as we approached the first two of the current season.”
Source. Mercedes
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