Porsche has run its Formula E car on track, which the team referred to as its “rollout”, for the first time at the team’s testing facility in Weissach.
Neel Jani, who has already been confirmed as one of Porsche’s drivers for its inaugural 2019/20 season entry, shook down the car to give the team its first insight into its car on the circuit. Porsche say the car ran “without incident”.
“I am very proud to have been behind the wheel the first time our Formula E racing car was driven,” Jani said.
“Being allowed to drive the rollout is not only a great honour, it is also very exciting. We’re breaking new ground. It was a fantastic feeling for me. Everyone in the team feels it: The project is really gaining momentum now.
“We didn’t push it to the limit during the rollout, but the and the car made a very good first impression overall. I can’t wait to get back to testing.”
Alongside Mercedes in 2019 Porsche will be entering as a factory team, meaning it is entitled to 15 days private testing of its powertrain in addition to the official public pre-season test days.
“The newly developed Porsche powertrain for Formula E completed its baptism of fire,” said Porsche Motorsport’s Vice President, Fritz Enzinger.
“It is an important day for everyone involved in this project. Many thanks to everyone who has poured their heart and soul into the construction of the powertrain and car in recent months and made this successful rollout possible.
“We still have a lot of work to do on the road to our works entry in Formula E, but an important initial step has been taken.
“Now we will be fully focussed as we continue to work on familiarising ourselves with the particular challenges of Formula E.”
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