Mahindra Racing Confirms Full Manufacturer Commitment to Formula E Through 2030
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Mahindra Racing has solidified its future in Formula E, announcing a continued commitment as a full manufacturer through the end of the Gen4 era in 2030. The decision, revealed during a special event in Bengaluru, India, on Wednesday, secures the team’s place as a key player in the electric racing series’ next phase of development.
Performance Gains Drive Long-Term Investment
The announcement follows a period of internal evaluation regarding Mahindra’s powertrain strategy for the Gen4 cycle, set to begin in late 2026. While the team had previously considered the possibility of utilizing a customer powertrain, a significant upturn in performance during Season 11 proved pivotal in securing full board approval for a works program. The team finished fourth in the standings, a marked improvement after several challenging seasons.
“It’s a big, big joy for me because it has been a long, long negotiation process,” stated a senior team official. “When you come from where we were [in terms of performance], to bring people back at a confidence level that they think that you can win or make the brand proud… is a long journey.”
From Customer Consideration to Full Works Program
Mahindra was the first manufacturer to commit to the current Gen3 era back in 2020. However, the decision to develop its own powertrain for Gen4 wasn’t guaranteed. The team weighed the pros and cons, even exploring the option of sourcing a powertrain from another manufacturer.
According to the team principal, a strategic shift towards on-track performance was instrumental in changing the narrative. “Instead of just insisting we need to go as a manufacturer, [I chose to deliver on track],” he explained. “Until I had proven that we can deliver a good car, I had no chance.” This approach allowed the team to build credibility and garner the necessary support for the ambitious Gen4 project.
Gen4 Powertrain Development Underway
Despite missing the official registration deadline for manufacturers, Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds indicated that the deadline is not “hard and fast.” This provides flexibility for Mahindra as it continues to develop its Gen4 powertrain. A company release confirmed that work on the next-generation power unit had “never stopped,” with foundational groundwork laid even before the official greenlight.
Other manufacturers have already begun private testing of Gen4 powertrains or hybrid systems in Monteblanco, Spain. While Mahindra wasn’t present at those tests, the team is confident in its progress.
“With these types of projects, if you don’t bring the performance, it’s easy to kill [them],” the team principal added. “The moment you start to bring [results], people start to believe that it makes sense and then you start to create enthusiasm, excitement.”
Mahindra Racing’s commitment to Formula E through 2030 underscores the growing importance of electric motorsport and the brand’s dedication to innovation in sustainable racing technology.
