P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Formula 1 teams have been utilising a fellow FIA single-seater series, to gain a better understanding of electrification ahead of the new power unit regulations.
Stoffel Vandoorne emphasizes the importance of Formula E drivers for Formula 1, noting teams’ lack of readiness for the shift towards electrification. After his F1 stint with McLaren, Vandoorne has focused on Formula E, racing for various teams including HWA Racelab, Mercedes-EQ, DS Penske, and Maserati. He currently serves as a reserve driver for Jaguar, contributing significantly to the development of its Gen4 car. Apart from Formula E, Vandoorne supports Aston Martin as a reserve driver and is involved in the creation of its 2026 car. With F1’s new power-unit regulations emphasizing electric power, teams are turning to Formula E drivers for expertise in areas like energy management and deployment, where they have more experience. Vandoorne believes Formula E drivers can guide F1 teams in developing tools to optimize simulations and strategies in the electrified era.
