F1 Teams To Participate In Formula E, Organizers Also Want IndyCar, NASCAR Teams

Multiple F1 teams "are in negotiations about a possible involvement in Formula E," according to Sylt & Reid of Motorsport Total. The new series for formula cars with electric engines, which was created by motorsports governing body FIA, will debut in '14. It is expected that former F1 drivers also will compete in the new racing series.

Formula E Holding CEO Alejandro Agag said, "We are currently negotiating with two F1 teams. Several will definitely participate." Agag added: "We also want participants from the IndyCar and even the NASCAR series." In addition to the possibility of "racing with cars that do not produce emissions, the financial aspect of the series is also very interesting for teams."

While F1 teams spend an average of $190M per season, a season in Formula E will cost only about $5M. Due to its uniqueness, the series also is very attractive for drivers. Agag said, "It shouldn't be viewed as a step backward in the career of a driver. It is more a step sideways into a completely new series, and an honorable way to end a career. It isn't a development series but a completely new format that we want to position on the market as such."

Agag added: "Due to that, former F1 drivers will also be participating." The Formula E engines will be produced by McLaren. Agag said that because of the very quiet engines, there are completely new possibilities for organizers and spectators. Agag said: "If drivers talk to their teams via radio, we will use the speakers at the track to play back the conversations, so spectators can hear it during the race." Formula E will only race on city courses. So far, Rio de Janeiro and Rome have been confirmed as host cities. Motorsport Total