Jakarta Street Circuit

The Jakarta International E-Prix Circuit stands as Indonesia's premier electric motorsport venue and serves as an active fixture on the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship calendar. Located in the Ancol region of North Jakarta, adjacent to the Ancol Bay City shopping centre, this purpose-built street circuit made its debut in June 2022. The circuit hosted races in 2022 and a double-header event in 2023, and is scheduled to return on June 21, 2025, for Season 11 of Formula E. The Jakarta E-Prix represents Indonesia's first FIA-sanctioned race since the A1 Grand Prix at Sentul International Circuit in 2006, marking a significant milestone for motorsport in the country.

Circuit Layout and Design

The circuit runs clockwise across 2.37 kilometers (approximately 1.47 miles) and features 18 turns. The track design draws inspiration from the Kuda Lumping, a traditional Javanese horse dance prop, connecting modern racing with Indonesian cultural heritage. This unique design choice distinguishes the circuit from other Formula E venues and provides a distinct identity.

Officials evaluated five potential locations across Jakarta before selecting the Ancol site. Initial proposals for a circuit around the National Monument and Merdeka Square were abandoned due to logistical and political considerations. Construction began in January 2022 and was completed in a remarkably short period, with the circuit ready for racing by June 2022.

Track Features and Characteristics

The circuit begins with a substantial 600-meter (2,000 ft) main straight that leads into Turn 1, a wide right-hand corner offering multiple racing lines and strong overtaking opportunities. The layout incorporates a mix of low, medium, and high-speed corners, including two 90-degree right turns at Turns 2 and 3, followed by a two-part left-hand curve onto the back straight. Drivers navigate a challenging and fast S-section and a double left-right 90-degree turn sequence before reaching the Turn 13 hairpin, which serves as the circuit's hardest braking zone.

Turn 16 features banking and a wider outside line specifically designed to accommodate the Attack Mode activation zone, adding a strategic element to races. The lap concludes with a fast left-hander followed by a sharp right-hander that guides cars back to the start/finish straight. Formula E drivers have praised the layout, with Lucas di Grassi noting it "will test every aspect of car performance." The Jakarta circuit is recognized as one of the fastest tracks on the current Formula E calendar.

Racing Conditions

Jakarta's hot and humid weather presents significant challenges for drivers and machinery. Temperatures consistently exceed 30 degrees Celsius with humidity above 70 percent, impacting race strategy and driver endurance. The newly laid tarmac provides good grip on the racing line but becomes slippery off the ideal path, requiring precision from drivers. Jake Dennis set the current lap record of 1:09.171 in 2023. The first race in 2022 produced close competition, with Mitch Evans securing victory and the top three drivers finishing within one second of each other.

Significance and Future

The circuit supports Indonesia's commitment to emission-free transportation by 2050 and serves as a key initiative to promote electric vehicle awareness. Formula E organizers have praised the circuit for its urban integration without significant disruption and the strong public enthusiasm it generates. Discussions are actively underway for contract renewal to ensure Jakarta's continued inclusion in the 2026 Formula E season and beyond. The circuit's development generated some controversy regarding tree removal and the commitment fees paid by the Jakarta government to host the event.