Taylor Barnard’s trajectory in Formula E has been anything but conventional. From a last-minute substitute appearance at the 2024 Monaco E-Prix to a full-time seat with DS PENSKE, the 21-year-old Briton has quickly established himself as a rising star in the all-electric series. Now halfway through his second season, Barnard is navigating the challenges of adapting to a new team and powertrain, all while carrying the expectations that reach with a breakout rookie campaign. His journey highlights the increasing opportunities for young talent within Formula E, a championship that continues to attract drivers eager to make their mark on the future of motorsport.
Barnard’s entry into Formula E was dramatic. Stepping in for an injured Sam Bird at Monaco, he immediately demonstrated his potential, securing a points finish in his debut race. That opportunity led to a full-time drive with NEOM McLaren in 2025, where he quickly exceeded expectations, earning five podium finishes and challenging for the championship title. He even secured a record-breaking pole position in Jeddah, as detailed in a recent debrief on the official Formula E website. READ MORE: Taylor Barnard debriefs his record-breaking pole position in Jeddah 2025
A New Chapter with DS PENSKE
This season, still, presents a different set of hurdles. Joining DS PENSKE, Barnard is adapting to a new team dynamic and, crucially, a different powertrain after previously racing with Nissan machinery at NEOM McLaren. The transition hasn’t been seamless. “It’s been a big change,” Barnard admits. “Obviously, not everything has been as smooth as we would like. Brazil was quite a challenge, I think the powertrain was not the best performing one that weekend, but regardless I struggled quite a lot with pace and with a few other things.”
Despite the challenges, there have been glimpses of progress. Mexico City offered a significant step forward, with Barnard challenging for pole position. “Mexico was obviously a massive step forward for myself and for the team. I think the powertrain was performing slightly better, but regardless, being in a fight for pole position with a new team was quite a big step for us,” he explained. As of the latest standings, Barnard has accumulated 14 points, placing him 13th in the drivers’ championship. View the full standings on the official Formula E website.
Understanding the Powertrain Puzzle
The nuances of adapting to a new powertrain are significant in Formula E. While the fundamental elements – the chassis, tires, and core systems – remain consistent, the way to extract maximum performance varies considerably between manufacturers. “You know the basics and you know that you have systems and you know that you have the same tires and it’s the same car,” Barnard says. “But the way that you actually try to maximise it is completely different. So, I’ll be honest and say I’m still getting used to it.”
Barnard’s approach to this learning curve is characterized by a relentless work ethic. “It’s been okay. I prefer to be a bit harsh on myself and make sure that I maintain working as hard as I can instead of being relaxed and going, ‘Oh everyone’s telling me I’m doing a great job’ so I’d rather work a bit too hard than the opposite.” This self-driven attitude is a hallmark of his success thus far.
A Changing of the Guard in Formula E
Beyond the technical challenges, Barnard is similarly finding his footing within the evolving landscape of the Formula E paddock. He acknowledges a growing sense of belonging, particularly as a new generation of drivers enters the series. “To be honest, the longer that I stay here obviously the more familiar faces I know,” he says. “Last year was a little bit intimidating not knowing everybody and Sam (Bird) was walking through the paddock and saying hello to everyone left and right. But this year I feel a bit more comfortable, I know a lot of people around here.”
He anticipates a shift in the competitive landscape in the coming years. “I think in the next couple of years some of the older guys on the grid will not be here anymore and perhaps some of my friends or my colleagues from people who I’ve raced in my junior career will be stepping in. So, I think the times will change in the next few years.” This transition reflects the growing appeal of Formula E to a new wave of drivers, drawn to its innovative technology and commitment to sustainability, particularly with the impending GEN4 era.
The next race on the Formula E calendar is the Portland E-Prix on June 29th, where Barnard will appear to build on the progress made in Mexico and further refine his partnership with DS PENSKE. Fans can find more information on how to watch the race and the full season schedule on the official Formula E website: WATCH: How to watch every Formula E race in your country.
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