LONDON – Virgin Racing has announced a new partnership with Citroen subsidiary DS Automobiles that will see the team be rebranded for the second season of the FIA Formula E series.
Virgin entered Formula E at the beginning of the season thanks to the support of group founder Sir Richard Branson, but will now grow after teaming up with the French marque on a multi-year deal.
As of the 2015/2016 Formula E season, the team will be known as DS Virgin Racing team as the partnership looks to aid the development of both the brands and the electric automobile industry as a whole.
“We went out looking for a partner not only that shared out brand values, but importantly for us we needed someone to help turn the technology of Formula E into reality,” Virgin Racing team principal Alex Tai said.
“We’re talking about one of the largest automobile groups in the world here. They have proven technology and capabilities of delivering a fantastic automobiles.
“Through their DS Performance brand and racing expertise and multiple world championships, they’re going to help us deliver a winning car and winning technology.
“So it’s the refinement of the designs that we put together but the implementation of their technology. They build the car for us and help us to deliver a winning vehicle. That’s the key part of the partnership.”
Branson was also delighted to make the announcement in London on Friday, believing that teaming up with DS can be the step that makes Virgin capable of winning championships in Formula E.
“I’m absolutely delighted that Virgin Racing has found a partner of the calibre of the DS brand,” Branson said. “In season one, Formula E has delivered on its vision of creating exciting, fan-friendly racing spectacles where almost any team can win.
“Now I look forward to building on this in season two and with our new partner DS, aiming to compete to win multiple championships.”