Kiwi Mitch Evans joins Formula E with Jaguar

Quick Kiwi trades codes to join emerging FIA Formula E Championship

It has been confirmed that New Zealander Mitch Evans will be competing in next season's FIA Formula E Championship with Panasonic Jaguar Racing and their I TYPE 1 race car.

"Some of history's most iconic cars have been developed by Jaguar, and I'm thrilled to be part of Jaguar's electric future and our return to motorsport," said Evans.

"Formula E is a real drivers' championship with some of the most competitive racing in the world. Any of the drivers will tell you how challenging it is to find the limit in a Formula E car and gain those extra tenths and I'm looking forward to the season ahead."

Evans had enjoyed a number of tests with the Jaguar squad; trumping the team's other test drivers during most sessions on track. 

The former GP3 Series and TRS champion and his Campos Racing team have struggled through 2016's GP2 Series season, with Evans sitting 10th in the points, five positions ahead of teammate Sean Gelael. A shift to the less demanding Formula E schedule will allow Evans to pursue opportunities in GT racing — Evans being a former winner in LMP2 and having tested Porsche's LMP1 919 Hybrid in late 2015.

The Formula E platform makes use of electric power trains, reflecting the shift towards electric technology in production cars. A diverse selection of manufacturers have thrown their support behind the series; including Audi, Renault, Mahindra, and now Jaguar.

The series continues to prove divisive among motorsport fans, but increasing support from manufacturers and next-generation racers could see its perception grow.

“Today marks a new chapter in the history of Jaguar Racing,” said Panasonic Jaguar Racing Chairman Gerd Mauser.

“As the first premium car manufacturer in Formula E we are proud to be back in top-level motorsport. The future is changing and we’re part of that change. We can’t wait to begin racing competitively in inner city locations inspiring a whole new generation of Jaguar Racing fans to join us on this exciting journey. Formula E is the perfect platform to inspire the next generation.”

Evans will be joined by former A1GP champion Adam Carroll and reserve driver Ho-Pin Tung. 

Round one of the 2016–’17 FIA Formula E Championship takes place in Hong Kong on October 9.