Mahindra Racing’s rookie stars, Kush Maini and Frederik Vesti, gave a glowing review after impressing in their first on-track experience of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship in Berlin today [13 May].
The dust had scarcely settled on the Tempelhof Airport Circuit after two action-packed E-Prix over the weekend, before all 11 teams and 22 cars in the FIA’s all-electric series hit the track for a final day of dedicated ‘Rookie’ running in the German capital.
Electing to run Indian hotshot Kush Maini and another standout talent, Frederik Vesti (DEN) behind the wheel, the event gave the Banbury-based team an opportunity to gather valuable data, and to provide a platform for the next generation of stars.
In total, the duo clocked 195 laps of the 1.46-mile circuit across the day, with Vesti and Maini setting the third and sixth-fastest times respectively in the morning. After lunch, the two swapped roles, with Maini fifth and Vesti seventh in the afternoon running.
Both sessions provided the team with valuable data in its continued push to compete at the front. The drivers were left with a positive impression of the GEN3 Formula E car, which has a top speed of 200mph, produces 470bhp and is capable of accelerating from 0-60mph in 2.8 seconds.
Following the Rookie Test, Mahindra Racing’s focus now switches to the next two rounds of Season 10, held in Shanghai, China on 25-26 May.
Kush Maini (#21) said:
“I’m so impressed with what I’ve experienced today in the Formula E car. To see it trackside is one thing, but the experience behind the wheel is unlike anything I’ve driven before.
“Systems-wise, it’s such a complex car, so I’ve been working hard together with the whole team to build up my knowledge, my experience, and my understanding so we can make the best use of our time on track today, and that process has really helped to grow me as a driver.
“It’s a very proud moment for me to represent such a prestigious Indian brand as Mahindra in Formula E, and I’m looking forward to continuing my work with the team as a Reserve Driver for the rest of the season.
“A final thank you to Fred [Bertrand] and to the team’s management for giving me this opportunity. It’s certainly not one I’ll forget any time soon.”
Frederik Vesti (#48) said:
“Today has been a great experience for me. I did not have any expectations since I did not know what to expect! I must say I was very surprised by the Formula E car. As a driver it’s always valuable to learn and grow from experiences with different and highly competitive cars.
“I was really impressed with the level of engineering, it’s clear to me why Formula E is now a World Championship. The whole day with Mahindra Racing ran smoothly, and I’m most grateful to Fred and the whole team for the opportunity to test, and for the benefit of their support and experience to guide me throughout the day.”