David Beckmann set the fastest time on the third day of Formula E pre-season practice, while Pascal Wehrlein demonstrated Porsche’s ability to lead with a one-two finish in the racing simulation. The current champion became the first driver to lap the Jarama circuit under 1:28 during Thursday’s morning session, but was beaten by eight thousandths.
His compatriot clocked 1:27.755 in the final hour and became the fastest so far.with only one day of testing to make way for the drivers who will also race on the Madrid track. Antonio Félix da Costa finished third in the morning, just a few thousandths behind the best time, which allowed three Stuttgart-powered cars to take the lead.
The Portuguese followed Pascal Wehrlein in the 24-lap simulation race held at the start of the afternoon sessionand which was the first opportunity for the teams to see the new Gen3 Evo up close. For its part, Jaguar occupied the first row of the grid, determined by draw, and Mitch Evans He led the first half after a delayed start.
It was because Zane Maloneywho will make his debut in Formula E this season, was unable to start in his Abt and did not complete a single lap. The New Zealander was in control until the ninth lap, before Antonio Félix da Costa took the lead, with Jean-Éric Vergne inheriting his place in the next round.
The Frenchman’s new partner, Maximilian Guenther, first at mid-racewhen eleven drivers made a mandatory pit stop to refuel. The concept, where they receive a 10% charge from the 600 kW battery in half a minute, was developed for over two years, and the simulation was the first time they were able to test it in real conditions, and the FIA and the category will decide whether this is implemented.
When all drivers have made the mandatory stop, Jean-Eric Vergne regains the lead, but only three laps laterand after a planned test with the safety car, Pascal Wehrlein took the lead and began to distance himself. His Portuguese teammate placed second on the penultimate lap, at the expense of Nick CassidyPorsche’s season therefore began with a victory.
The New Zealander finished third, ahead Jake Dennisand his teammate, Mitch Evans, with Nyck de Vries completing the first six positions. The session resumed for the rest of the afternoon, where Mahindra led the Dutchman in a 1:28.010, which left him four tenths ahead of Edward Mortarawho was third.
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