Formula E visits the desert: for the first time, on Saturday (12 November) the fully electric racing series holds a round in Africa. Naturally, the drivers are exploring the country as the anticipation for the ePrix grows. Above all because the UN Climate Change Conference ‘COP22’, taking place at the same time in Marrakesh, offers an ideal context to sustainable motorsport.
Daniel Abt explores Marrakesh
From one single-seater to another: Daniel Abt used the days before Formula E’s appearance in Marrakesh to explore the desert with a camel. Together with some fellow drivers, the German threw on a typical Moroccan robe and ventured on a wobbly ride. Previously, Abt had visited the vibrant market in the heart of the city. “It’s madness there – a great warm-up for race day.”
The longest track in the current Formula E calendar
The Circuit International Automobile Moulay El Hassan is the longest track in the current Formula E calendar. In previous years, only the track in Beijing was longer. A second special feature: for the first time in the still young history of the series, the lap times will be comparable to another racing series: the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC) appeared on the exact same circuit this year. The fastest time in qualifying: 1:21.457 minutes.
Skier Marco Büchel comes as a guest of LGT and the team
Marco Büchel ventures onto unfamiliar terrain: the former World Championship silver medalist visits the race in Marrakesh at the invitation of the LGT Group. The Liechtensteiner filmed some clips for the team’s partner, interviewing the racing drivers, mechanics and engineers.
Formula E is a partner of the UN Climate Change Conference ‘COP22’
Formula E is an official partner event of the UN Climate Conference ‘COP22’, which takes place at the same time in Marrakesh. Those taking part are Heads of State from all over the world. “A race alongside this summit is yet another milestone for Formula E,” says Team Principal Hans-Jürgen Abt. “The whole world will be looking at Marrakesh during these few days – and for us that is even more motivation to present the series and our team with a good result.”
Lucas di Grassi on a glacier: presentation of the documentary
In August, Formula E, partner Schaeffler and Lucas di Grassi ventured on a spectacular trip. To set a mark against global warming, the Brazilian drove a few laps in a Formula E car on a glacier in Greenland. Whilst the short clip on YouTube has already reached more than three million views, the almost 50-minute documentary will be presented in Marrakesh on Sunday. Prince Albert of Monaco, who supported the campaign with his foundation, will attend this occasion.
