Formula E - Berlin ePrix I

The Berlin ePrix I brings the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship back to the historic Berlin Tempelhof Airport. This double-header weekend features two races of all-electric racing action on one of the most distinctive circuits in formula-e. Berlin holds a special place in the championship as the only city to host a race in every season since the series began.

The Tempelhof Airport Street Circuit

The Berlin Tempelhof Airport provides a unique setting for formula-e competition. The circuit measures 2.345 kilometers (1.457 miles) and features 15 corners laid out on the concrete apron of the former airport. The track surface, originally built for aircraft, creates distinct challenges for teams and drivers. The abrasive concrete causes significant tire wear and demands careful energy management throughout each race.

The flowing nature of the circuit offers multiple overtaking opportunities. Drivers must balance speed with strategic energy use on a surface that tests both car and competitor. The start/finish straight sits on the side of the concrete apron where it was repositioned in recent seasons, giving the track its current configuration.

Teams and Drivers

Twenty drivers will compete at the Berlin ePrix I across ten teams. The grid includes Andretti Formula E with Jake Dennis and Felipe Drugovich, Citroën Racing fielding Nick Cassidy and Jean-Éric Vergne, and Cupra Kiro running Josep Maria Martí and Dan Ticktum. DS Penske brings Taylor Barnard and Maximilian Günther, while Envision Racing enters Sébastien Buemi and Joel Eriksson.

Jaguar TCS Racing features António Félix da Costa alongside Mitch Evans. The Lola Yamaha Abt Formula E Team runs Lucas Di Grassi and Zane Maloney. Mahindra Racing fields Nyck De Vries and Edoardo Mortara, Nissan Formula E Team enters Norman Nato and Oliver Rowland, and Porsche Formula E Team completes the lineup with Nico Müller and Pascal Wehrlein.

Gen3 Evo Technology

The Berlin ePrix I will showcase the Gen3 Evo car, representing the fourth season of this generation of formula-e vehicles. These machines accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.82 seconds and reach speeds up to 320 km/h. The cars feature regenerative braking systems that return energy to the batteries during deceleration, making energy management a key strategic element.

Sustainability remains central to formula-e technology. The tires contain 35% recycled materials, and the Hankook iON all-weather tires provide improved grip compared to earlier versions. Each driver can use up to six new front and six new rear tires across the double-header weekend.

PIT BOOST Innovation

One race during the Berlin weekend will feature the mandatory PIT BOOST powered by Fortescue Zero. This system provides cars with a 10% energy increase (3.85kWh) through a 30-second, 600kW boost in the pit lane. Drivers must activate the PIT BOOST when their State of Charge sits between 40% and 60%, adding another strategic layer to race management.

Berlin's Formula-E Legacy

Berlin Tempelhof Airport first hosted formula-e racing in the championship's early days. The circuit has evolved through several layouts since then, with the track configuration changing to suit the developing technology and racing demands. The airport itself carries historical significance, having served as a symbol of freedom for Berlin residents during the Cold War era.

The venue left the calendar briefly when the airport served as a refugee center, with the race moving to Karl-Marx-Allee. Formula-e returned to Tempelhof with a revised layout that emphasized flowing corners and better racing opportunities. The circuit has since established itself as a favorite among drivers and teams.

More Than Racing

The Berlin ePrix I extends beyond the track action. The Formula E Festival Berlin combines motorsport with entertainment, live music, and an international food court. Fans can experience race simulators in the gaming arena and engage with sustainable technology displays throughout the venue.

The event runs from morning to evening across both days, providing a full festival atmosphere alongside the two races. Free practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and podium ceremonies complete the racing schedule. The combination of competition and entertainment creates a comprehensive experience for fans attending or following the event.

Circuit Challenges

The abrasive concrete surface at Berlin Tempelhof Airport creates unique demands. Teams must carefully calculate tire degradation and energy consumption across race distance. The surface texture, designed for aircraft rather than racing cars, accelerates wear on all components touching the track.

Berlin has witnessed some of formula-e's most dominant performances, including two of the three "grand slams" in championship history where a driver claimed pole position, led every lap, set the fastest lap, and won the race. The circuit's characteristics can reward perfect execution while punishing small mistakes.

The Berlin ePrix I at Berlin Tempelhof Airport promises compelling racing action as teams and drivers tackle one of formula-e's most challenging and historic venues. The combination of demanding circuit conditions, advanced electric racing technology, and Berlin's status as the championship's only ever-present host city makes this double-header weekend a significant occasion in the season.