Formula E will add a new support series to its race weekends from season five featuring the new all-electric Jaguar I-PACE road car.
Formula E has grown rapidly since launching in 2014, and will feature a more substantial undercard from the start of its fifth season in the winter of 2018.
The Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY will boast a 20-car grid, with drivers being offered ‘arrive and drive’ packages for 10 Formula E race weekends.
“With the launch of the Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY we have strengthened our commitment to battery electric vehicles, international motorsport and Formula E,” Gerd Mäuser, Chairman, Jaguar Racing, said.
“As a British team, we are proud to announce today the launch of the world’s first production battery electric vehicle championship.
“We’ve always said we want to prove our electrification technologies on the track – this is the proof. I am looking forward to seeing a full grid of Jaguar I-PACE racecars in late 2018, soon after the first Jaguar I-PACE hits the road in Europe.
“Formula E has grown exponentially since we joined as the first premium manufacturer last year, with commitments from Audi, Mercedes-Benz and Porsche. The Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY will improve the spectacle for the fans and gives young drivers a ladder into Formula E.
“We expect our series to be a sell-out and an exciting international sporting event.”
Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag added: “Jaguar has been a welcome addition to Formula E and a fantastic advocate for electric street racing.
“I’m delighted that in addition to the Panasonic Jaguar Racing team competing on the Formula E grid, we will be adding to our race day schedule with a competitive new support series for season five.
“The Jaguar I-PACE eTROPHY will bring more entertainment for fans in-between sessions and will be a further testament to the advances in battery technology and exciting electric performance.
“I hope Jaguar will allow me to bring my race suit and helmet... and maybe get behind the wheel myself!”