Lucas di Grassi Unveils Electric Concept Car '11 Seconds Faster Than F1'

Formula E driver Lucas di Grassi has unveiled his personally designed electric concept car, the DGR-Lola, claiming it could be "11 seconds faster than Formula 1" around the Circuit de Monaco at its ultimate performance. The concept, developed with support from Lola Cars, aims to showcase the potential of current technology to surpass F1's speed and efficiency.

Why it matters:

• This ambitious concept challenges the long-held notion of Formula 1 as the absolute pinnacle of motorsport performance.
• It highlights the rapid advancements in electric powertrain technology and aerodynamic design, suggesting a future where electric racing could dramatically outperform traditional combustion engines.
• The DGR-Lola could inspire further innovation in sustainable high-performance motorsport and accelerate the transition towards electric racing as the ultimate speed benchmark.

The Details:

• Revolutionary Design: Di Grassi spent his summer designing the DGR-Lola, with support from Lola Cars, known for its rich motorsport heritage.
• Advanced Features: The concept incorporates several cutting-edge technologies:
  • Variable Active Aerodynamics: Allows for dynamic adjustment of downforce and drag.
  • Extreme Low Drag: Optimized for maximum straight-line speed.
  • Modular Battery Design: Offers flexibility in power and weight distribution.
  • Open Software Integration: Facilitates adaptability and future upgrades.
• Unprecedented Speed: Simulations at the Circuit de Monaco show the DGR-Lola significantly faster than an F1 car. Di Grassi claims it could achieve a lap time 11 seconds quicker at its ultimate performance.
• Exceptional Efficiency: The concept is also reportedly 10 times more efficient than a current F1 car in Monaco.
• Innovative Downforce: Features twin-turbine suction to generate substantial downforce at any speed.
• Powertrain: Equipped with all-wheel drive, two motors producing 600kW (804bhp), and a fully integrated 60kWh modular battery.
• Collaborators: Sebastian Lamour’s LamTec handled CAD, Chris Paul Design produced renderings, and Airshaper conducted Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) runs.

Between the lines:

Di Grassi's project isn't just about speed; it's a statement about the future of motorsport. By showcasing what's possible with existing materials and technology, he's effectively laying down a gauntlet to the entire racing world. The emphasis on modularity, efficiency, and open software also points to a more sustainable and adaptable approach to vehicle design, which could have broader implications for automotive engineering.

What's next:

While currently a concept, the DGR-Lola could influence future motorsport regulations and spark further investment in high-performance electric racing. Its bold claims will undoubtedly fuel debate and discussion within the F1 and Formula E communities, potentially accelerating the development of even faster, more efficient racing machines. The project demonstrates a clear vision for electric vehicles not just matching, but decisively surpassing the performance of their combustion-engined counterparts.