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McLaren to develop electric race cars

McLaren to develop hardware for new electric Formula E race series.

McLaren Electronic Systems looks to dominate the world of electric racers by announcing that it will provide the electric engine, gearbox and electronics for the FIA's new Formula E racing series.

Set for launch in 2014, McLaren will team up with Spark Racing Technology, run by Frédéric Vasseur, to develop and build these bespoke electric racers. Between them they look to bring this new event to prominent cities around the world.

The creation of such a racing series is to not only introduce electric power into the world of racing, but to enable the companies to develop various new technologies that will eventually find themselves in electric road cars.

"I'm a passionate believer that motorsport can showcase the development of future technologies," comments CEO McLaren Group and Team Principal of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, Martin Whitmarsh. "Formula E is an exciting innovation; and working together the two companies will stay at the forefront of technical innovation."

Frédéric Vasseur also speaks highly of the new joint venture; having previously and successfully worked alongside McLaren for a number of years.

Vodafone McLaren Mercedes is the first F1 team to retain the Carbon Trust Standard and to be deemed 'carbon-neutral'.

Currently, McLaren Electronic Systems is the sole provider of ECUs for Formula 1, NASCAR and the IZOD IndyCar series. With this staggering achievement running alongside McLaren's renowned racing success, Formula E looks set to be a winner.

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Published on November 14, 2012