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For Wickens, the 35-year-old racing driver from Ontario, Canada, these laps were more than just a test, but an inspiring comeback against adversity in his first return to single-seaters since his accident in 2018. His run in the GEN3 car was not just a one-off demo, but an evaluation session for Robert to assess opportunities for a full-time return to single-seater racing in the future.
Wickens had his first-ever experience behind the wheel of a Formula E machine in the cutting-edge GEN3 Formula E car – the latest generation of electric race cars – ahead of the 2024 Hankook Portland E-Prix. He completed 11 full laps, demonstrating the potential for inclusivity and technological innovation within the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.
“It was such an amazing opportunity to drive the GEN3 car yesterday," says Wickens. "Formula E has been a series that I’ve been keeping a close eye on for quite a while, but I never knew how I could get myself into the series. A huge thanks to Formula E and SPARK for their ingenuity and for developing a hand control system for me to drive the car in Portland.
“It was only a few laps, but I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and it left me wanting a lot more. Hopefully this will lead to more opportunities in the future and possibly a rookie test. I think right now, that would be the goal for me, to try and get onto the grid in Formula E for the future.”
The GEN3 is the world's fastest, lightest and most sustainable electric race car and was specifically modified by manufacturing partner SPARK for Wickens to drive via hand controls. It is also the most efficient race car on the planet, with almost 50 percent of its running energy coming from regeneration in the rear and new front powertrain, achieving up to 600kW of total energy regeneration.
Compared to its predecessor, the GEN3 car is 75 percent more powerful, has a top speed that is 95km/h greater, and boasts six times the power regeneration capability.
Robert Wickens' participation in the 2024 Hankook Portland E-Prix not only highlights his extraordinary comeback but also symbolises the inclusive spirit and relentless pursuit of innovation that defines the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.
Wickens' journey
Wickens’ journey in motorsport began in karting as a child, eventually progressing through the ranks of lower formulae. In 2009, he showcased immense talent after winning two races in the FIA Formula 2 Championship, finishing second overall.
His career continues to ascend as he clinched the 2011 Formula Renault 3.5 Championship, where he raced alongside Jean-Éric Vergne. His prowess on the track earned him a role as a reserve driver for Virgin Racing in Formula 1.
In 2018, Wickens joined the American IndyCar series and made an immediate impact, being named Rookie of the Year at the Indy 500. However, his promising career was abruptly halted by a severe crash at Pocono, which left him paralysed from the waist down.
Despite daunting challenges, Wickens’ determination never wavered. After nearly four years of recovery, he returned to racing, testing a specifically modified Hyundai with hand controls at Mid-Ohio raceway - 989 days post-accident.