Audi Unveils First Factory-Entered Formula E Car Ahead Of '17-18 Season

Audi unveiled its "first factory-entered Formula E car" ahead of the '17-18 season, and "has given it the e-tron name previously used on its LMP1 machines," according to Scott Mitchell of AUTOSPORT. The German manufacturer's works entry into the electric single-seater series "comes after two years as a supporting name to the Schaeffler-backed Abt operation." Audi's e-tron FE04 will utilize a single-speed gearbox as part of what Audi Head of Motorsport Dieter Gass called "a completely new powertrain." Three-time Le Mans 24 Hours winner Allan McNish "has also been installed as team principal of the Abt-run outfit," having completed a season as a special adviser to Audi. The e-tron FE04's livery "is a significant departure from last season's red, yellow and green design." Reigning Formula E champion Lucas di Grassi will adopt the No. 1 for the coming season. Teammate Daniel Abt has been retained and "elevated to factory Audi driver status" (AUTOSPORT, 9/27).

Take a 360-degree spin of our new Audi e-tron FE04 #etron #FormulaE #LeagueofPerformance pic.twitter.com/ejFKoItRTG

— Audi Sport (@audisport) September 27, 2017