Jean-Eric Vergne believes Formula E Gen3’s car is worse than Gen2 due to the restrictions from the series on the current machine, which hold its potential back.
Vergne, who finished fifth in the 2023 Formula E standings for Maserati, has been driving in the series since the third race of Season 1.
The Gen3 machine is 60kg lighter and has a higher top speed than its predecessor, with twice as much regen capability. However, the tyres are harder and the aerodynamics are different.
Asked exclusively by Total-Motorsport.com if Gen3 is better than Gen2, Vergne said: “No. It has a lot less grip than was Gen2. It has more power but it’s hard to get the power down.
“The car is too draggy and it creates a different kind of racing as people don’t want to lead anymore and you save so much more energy by following.
“Technology speaking we have gone in the right direction. In terms of aesthetic everyone has their taste.
“It’s very simple to make some tweaks and adjustments for Gen3.5. Just change the aero package and more downforce and less drag. It’s quite easy to do and better tyres. Then we will all be happy with that.”
Vandoorne unsure about Gen3
Teammate Stoffel Vandoorne failed to defend his title as he finished only 11th in the Formula E standings and didn’t feature on the podium at any of the 16 races.
Vandoorne didn’t go as far as saying Gen3 was worse than Gen2 and was clear Maserati need to simply improve on their own performance, rather than what the technical regulations should say.
“It’s a racing car and no matter what racing car you’re driving, you always have to try and extract the maximum out of it,” said Vandoorne.
“This year has been a tough year. We have had a difficult season lacking some pace generally compared to the Jaguars and Porsches.
“We definitely need to do better, so the focus is on improving our package and hopefully be able to be in a position where we can actually fight at the front more regularly.”
When is the 2024 Formula E season?
The new Formula E season begins with pre-season testing from Valencia at the Circuit Ricardo Tormo from October 23-27, with Mexico City hosting the 2024 opener on January 13.
