Formula E: Evans leads Jaguar 1-2 in first Berlin race

–by Mark Cipolloni–

In a race featuring a total of 190 overtakes, Jaguar TCS Racing executed a near-perfect race at the inaugural Julius Baer São Paulo E-Prix as Mitch Evans took the checkered flag and teammate Sam Bird finished third in Round 6 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.

It was an excellent day for the British manufacturer as they locked out the podium – secured as runner-up Nick Cassidy drives with the Jaguar powertrain for Envision Racing – the first time they have done so in the all-electric racing series.

The result makes it five different race winners in the opening six races of Season 9 as each race turns into a total crap shoot given the rules and the technology.

“This has come at the perfect time, we had a tough start but the car has been quick – so to finally get the victory and some points is incredible” race winner Mitch Evans said.

“A Jaguar 1-2-3, Nick pushed me all the way – we pushed each other – both teams executed brilliantly. This is down to a lot of hard work, there is a lot of graft that goes in with simulations, to try and put these races together regarding strategy is not easy. I wouldn’t have wanted it much closer than that!

“We obviously thought about track position and where you want to be at certain phases in the races. I had a good energy advantage from quite early on, but it was just about trying to find the right time to use the energy advantage. I thought I maybe went a bit too early, once Nick got behind me, he was able to accumulate some energy, and he was able to stick to my toe, but we got the victory so we obviously managed to do the right job. Super happy to get some big points on the board.”

Andretti Autosport driver Jake Dennis crashed out of the Berlin E-Prix, with Porsche’s Antonio Felix da Costa eliminated in the incident.

The Briton qualified a strong fifth and was running sixth and attempting to pass Maximilian Gunther’s Maserati MSG machine in front heading into the Turn 6 left-hand hairpin when he lost control, collecting the Porsche of da Costa ahead.

“In Formula E you roll for such a long period and then you brake, so you have the luxury of being able to move so much and I just felt like obviously he moved quite late.

“I was already committed and then I hit the brake and obviously had the situation. We just need to analyse why that happened.”

Berlin Race 1 Results