Formula E season preview with Venturi
We spoke with Venturi about their upcoming Formula E season.
As we head into the fifth season of Formula E, many of the teams are ramping up preparations. We were able to ask Venturi some questions about season five. Venturi has been competing in Formula E since its inception in 2014–2015.
This has its luxuries, but with the Gen2 car being introduced this year, the team will need to start from scratch with regards to knowledge of the car.
“We’re working hard to be ready for season 5, starting soon with the pre-season tests in Valencia. With the engineering team and all the staff at Venturi, we’re analyzing and adjusting every little detail and we focus, as usual, on being as efficient and fast as possible.” — (Franck Baldet — technical director)
Venturi also have a unique opportunity in the upcoming season. They will once again have a home race as Monaco returns to the racing calendar. Venturi has their headquarters located in Monaco, making the trip a short one.
“Of course we’re very pleased to have a home race in Monaco. That’s always a challenge to compete in Monaco, the capital of motorsports, and especially when you represent Venturi, the only Monegasque team.” — (Felipe Massa, Venturi driver)
Felipe Massa will be making his debut in Formula E this year. Its possibly the most notable driver change in the series as he comes from an extensive Formula 1 background. That being said, nothing comes easy in Formula E.
“I’m really excited to meet the fans and hopefully to bring good results to Venturi Formula E team” — (Felipe Massa, Venturi driver)
Besides the racing, Felipe is also looking forward to the change in fan environment compared to Formula 1. It will be much different than what he is used too, having every race on a street circuit, along with a much more interactive fan experience.
He will also be experiencing a younger audience, as Formula E has put it, the next generation of race fans.
“It will also be a great thing to interact with a new generation of race fans. I know that Formula E championship has many distinctive features in comparison with Formula 1 such the interactive aspect with Fanboost which gives fans an active role in influencing the outcome of the race, the E-Village, which provides great entertainment to the fans.” — (Felipe Massa, Venturi driver)
Beside Felipe will be a driver with more Formula E experience, Edoardo Mortara. He is having a positive attitude towards the changes set for season five.
Calling the new car ‘Batmobile-esque’ leads us to believe this season is fulfilling a childhood dream for Edo.
“Greater speeds, more action on track and only one car per driver… All these changes bring the championship to the next level for sure” — (Edoardo Mortara, Venturi Driver)
By: Andrew Miles