Formula E News: New Berlin track layout revealed

The German round on the Formula E calendar is getting a new layout and a new test to tackle at Tempelhof for 2024.

Berlin has been the only ever-present location on the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship Calendar, soon entering its 10th season.

Aside from a street circuit in the country’s capital, used in Season 2, the all-electric championship has raced around the iconic Tempelhof Airport on 17 occasions, on a variety of layouts. As well as being host to the Berlin E-Prix, the venue became a unique destination for the championship when it held six races during nine days over the pandemic at the end of Season 6.

The most recent layout used in 2023 was a 2.355km track that generated an incredible 362 overtakes over the two days of racing – including eight different race leaders which was a new record for Formula E. But, things are becoming bigger and better, with a longer circuit and even more corners for this new season.

Over two days of action on Saturday 11 May and Sunday 12 May, Formula E will be racing on the modified 2.585km layout with 15 stunning corners and several longer straights. The changes have been brought in as a result of development work at the Tempelhof Airport, with Formula E’s track designers seizing the opportunity to create a new layout for the circuit.

Tempelhof is already a challenge for the drivers due to the abrasive track surface, meaning they really have to nurse their Hankook tires on the asphalt. However, this improved layout also means drivers will have to juggle more technical elements, faster racing, and their energy management even more closely.

Pablo Martino, Formula E Head of Sporting Matters, FIA said: “The new Berlin Tempelhof layout retains all the soul of the old circuit, while presenting new challenges for drivers and teams – putting skill behind the wheel as well as efficiency and energy consumption truly to the test.

“The combination of fast, medium and slow-speed corners will give rise to a number of different set-up choices, handing the advantage to different drivers in different parts of the lap, while two major overtaking zones mean exciting races are guaranteed!”

Fans can still enjoy all the specialities the Berlin round has to offer including live music performances, racing simulators in the gaming arena and so much more. The famous podium has also been relocated for Season 10, moving into the heart of the Allianz Fan Village so everyone can be part of the driver’s winning celebrations. Did someone say Champagne showers?

“In the history of Formula E, the Berlin E-Prix and its iconic location at Tempelhof Airport has always been a great and firm asset to our championship,” Claudia Denni, Sporting Director, Formula E added. “The new layout for Season 10 will create the right conditions for an even more thrilling race, with a faster, technical track and potential for higher top speeds.

“As always, on the sporting event preparation and delivery, Formula E will continue to be supported by the DMSB and the professional sporting club ADAC, which we take the opportunity to thank for their loyalty and affection to our electric series.”