Nissan Formula E confirmed that the championship’s considering permanent racing circuits like Silverstone for its next-generation cars starting in 2027. The shift would mark a departure from Formula E’s traditional city-center venues as the series prepares for significantly more powerful electric vehicles.
Tommaso Volpe, Nissan Formula E Team Principal and Managing Director, addressed the possibility during a media roundtable at the London E-Prix. The championship has a verbal commitment to maintain at least half its races in urban locations – but Gen4’s performance capabilities are pushing organizers toward traditional racing circuits.
“It could happen, especially with Gen4,” Volpe said when asked about Silverstone hosting Formula E. “We have a verbal commitment to keep at least half the circuits in city centres, because it’s part of Formula E’s DNA – but with cars being more performing, circuits like Silverstone will be more appropriate for the level of performance.”
The timing aligns with Formula E’s existing agreements.
The championship’s current deal with London’s ExCeL Centre runs through 2026 – exactly when Gen4 cars are scheduled to debut. These machines will feature all-wheel drive systems and increased power output that could overwhelm current street circuits.
Performance Driving Venue Changes
Gen4’s capabilities represent a significant leap from current technology. The cars will deliver unprecedented energy efficiency and corner-exit acceleration – approaching performance levels seen in traditional top-tier racing categories.
Several city venues may no longer accommodate the new specifications.
“Some locations like this one, or other city circuits we used for Gen2 and Gen3, won’t be ideal for Gen4,” Volpe explained. “Safety and entertainment-wise, it’s going to be difficult to fit the performance into urban layouts.”
The manufacturer perspective supports permanent circuit racing. Nissan and other teams see traditional tracks as platforms to demonstrate electric technology’s full potential.
“Silverstone-type circuits will allow us to showcase electrification as a flexible technology that delivers both efficiency and raw performance,” Volpe added.
Formula E’s already tested permanent venues in select markets. The championship has raced at Shanghai and Mexico City’s permanent facilities. Miami’s returning to the calendar with a hybrid street-track format that bridges both approaches.
Championship Evolution
The potential Silverstone move reflects Formula E’s broader strategy to attract mainstream motorsport audiences. City-center racing remains core to the series’ identity – but performance limitations are forcing practical compromises.
A 2027 Silverstone debut would symbolize both Formula E’s maturation and electric powertrain development.
The UK’s home of motorsport hosting all-electric racing represents a milestone for the technology’s acceptance in traditional racing circles. Gen4’s capabilities could finally deliver the performance spectacle that permanent circuit racing demands while maintaining Formula E’s environmental mission.
