Formula E’s upcoming thirteenth season will introduce a revamped race format and three new circuits when it kicks off in December. The schedule, released by the FIA, includes the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, the Brands Hatch circuit in Kent, and the Zandvoort circuit in Amsterdam. This marks the first time the series will hold two US race weekends since its inaugural 2014 campaign.
The electric championship will also alter its double-header weekends, adding a shorter 30-minute E-Prix dubbed 'Unleashed' ahead of the main event. The changes, alongside the debut of new Gen4 cars, signal a growing convergence with Formula 1 in terms of spectacle and structure. The series continues to expand its global footprint, now covering more than a dozen venues.
For the first time since 2014, Formula E will run two events in the United States, deepening its presence in a key automotive market. The addition of historic tracks like Brands Hatch and Zandvoort gives the all-electric series a mix of traditional and modern circuits. The new 'Unleashed' format aims to increase viewer engagement with a shorter, faster race.
These moves could help Formula E attract a broader audience and secure more commercial partnerships, though the series still trails F1 in revenue and viewership. The shift toward F1-style weekend structures may also spark debate among purists who value the series' unique identity. The season’s success will hinge on fan reception to the new formats and Gen4 cars.
Some critics argue that mimicking F1 risks diluting Formula E's distinct appeal as a sustainable, tighter competition. The series must balance innovation with its core mission of showcasing electric vehicle technology.