Costs vs. Freedom of Development: Is Formula E Doing Everything Right?
In motorsports, cost containment and the freedom to develop solutions are often at odds—according to Cyril Abiteboul, Formula E has struck a good balance
“We’re here because of the technology,” says Hyundai motorsports chief Cyril Abiteboul, who pulls the strings in both the World Endurance Championship (WEC) at Magma and the World Rally Championship (WRC). But the Frenchman warns against spiraling costs if development is given too much free rein. That’s why he praises Formula E, which he believes is on the right track.
“We’re here for the marketing, for the brand, but also for the technology,” he clarifies. “So I think we all have a collective responsibility to ensure that this sport continues to stand for technology and development.”
“However, we also have to keep an eye on costs. When I talk about technology and costs, these two things don’t usually go hand in hand,” explains Abiteboul. “That’s why we need to find a balance in what we do. On our part, it shouldn’t be a technological arms race, but there should be a certain degree of technological freedom where it makes sense.”
“Really, where it makes sense. I’m not talking about technological freedom everywhere, but where it’s relevant to the manufacturer, I think it’s important. I think the work that Formula E is doing in its own field with electric vehicles is good.”
Formula E will introduce the Gen4 car in the 2026/27 season, which will be larger, heavier, but also significantly more powerful—with around 800 horsepower—than its predecessor, which produces 476 horsepower. There are standardized parts in Formula E—areas where development isn’t unrestricted—as well as parts that the manufacturers are allowed to develop themselves.
“There’s a lot of freedom in certain areas and many restrictions in others,” says Abiteboul. “In my opinion, the best return on investment actually comes from Formula E right now—aside from the fact that it doesn’t work for us because it’s not what we want.”
He clarifies: “What I mean by that is: What they’re doing for e-mobility technology is, in my opinion, a good source of inspiration for what we want to do here with good old-fashioned racing for other types of technology.”
