Shanghai Formula E: Electric Racing in China

Shanghai FormulaE with a couple of numpties

Destination:ChinaCity:ShanghaiPopulation:24.9 million
Shanghai FormulaE with a couple of numpties
Tim Chambers2024-06-079 min

Join me and Mark as we attend round 11 of the ABB FormulaE 2024 championship, getting to the Shanghai circuit via the metro. We were total lacking any knowledge of the rules, so it was a good learning experience.

Formula E, officially the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, is an open-wheel single-seater motorsport championship for electric cars. The racing series is the highest class of competition for electrically powered single-seater racing cars. The inaugural championship race was held in Beijing in September 2014. Since 2020, the series has FIA world championship status.

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship season consists of a series of races, each known as an e-Prix. These take place in multiple countries and continents around the world, mostly on street circuits created specifically for Formula E on closed public roads in the centre of major cities, with a small number on iconic purpose-built circuits such as Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in Mexico City. A points system is used at each e-Prix to determine two annual World Championships: one for the drivers, and one for the constructors (the teams). Each driver must hold a valid e-Licence issued by the FIA to compete.

Formula E cars are the fastest regulated electric road-course racing cars in the world. Major changes made for the 2022–23 season in the development of the Gen3 car were delivered as software updates directly to the advanced operating system built into the car. The estimated top speed is 322 km/h (200 mph). The battery is also designed to be able to handle "flash-charging" at rates of up to 600 kW, allowing pitstop recharging into the championship for the first time. The wheelbase has been reduced from 3100 mm to 2970 mm and the weight reduced to 760 kg.

--- Tim Chambers
June 7, 2024, Summer in China

Video Chapters

  1. 0:00Journey begins
  2. 0:33Metro ride
  3. 1:09Reaching the circuit
  4. 2:06Exploring the fan village
  5. 2:52Race starts
  6. 4:16Race highlights
  7. 5:20Race analysis
  8. 6:25Cars in the pits
  9. 7:05Race winner
  10. 8:42Close-up of car
  11. 9:07Departure

Tim Chambers and Mark experience the Shanghai Formula E race, riding the metro and enjoying the electrifying atmosphere. A thrilling race and unique cultural insights await!

Travel Guides & Tips in this video

  1. Tip 1Take the metro to reach the Shanghai Circuit, it's a convenient and efficient way to travel, especially considering the distance from the city center. (0:33)
  2. Tip 2Explore the fan village before the race. It's a great place to soak up the atmosphere, see the sponsors, and grab some food and drinks. (1:09)
  3. Tip 3Secure your seats in the grandstands early to get a good view of the race. The grandstands offer excellent views of the starting line and the unique track design. (2:06)
  4. Tip 4The fan zone is similar to that of the F1 race. It's a great place to meet other fans and enjoy the post-race atmosphere. (7:45)
  5. Tip 5Use the metro to travel back after the race. It's a hassle-free and efficient way to get back to your accommodation. (9:07)

Join Tim Chambers and Mark for an electrifying adventure at the Shanghai Formula E race! Their journey begins with a metro ride, showcasing the city's efficient public transport. Despite their initial lack of Formula E knowledge, they quickly immerse themselves in the thrill of the race, highlighting unexpected moments and surprising discoveries along the way. From the bustling fan village to the heart-pounding race itself, their unique perspective and engaging commentary make this a must-watch for any Formula E enthusiast or China travel lover.

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Shanghai FormulaE with a couple of numpties

This video follows Tim Chambers and Mark as they attend a Formula E race in Shanghai, China. Their adventure begins with a metro journey from brightly lit Line 14 to the less modern Line 11, highlighting a contrast in Shanghai's infrastructure. The journey to the Shanghai circuit, located outside the city center, takes approximately an hour.

Upon arrival, they explore the fan village, noting the various sponsors and the lively atmosphere. They find their seats in the grandstands, offering a fantastic view of the starting line and the unique track design, shaped like the word "Shang." The race itself is described with excitement, detailing the close competition between drivers, particularly the struggles of the McLaren team.

Tim and Mark's commentary reveals their growing understanding of Formula E, contrasting their initial lack of knowledge with their increasing engagement. They observe the cars' speed, the tight pack racing, and the absence of pit stops. The race's conclusion sees a Jaguar driver taking the win, and the video ends with the pair departing the circuit via the metro. The video includes close-up shots of a Formula E car, showcasing its size and design, and also highlights the differences between the Formula E and Formula 1 race experiences in Shanghai.

The unique aspect of the video is the blend of the Formula E race experience with the everyday experience of using Shanghai's public transport, offering viewers a glimpse into both the high-octane world of motorsport and the city's daily life. Tim Chambers' and Mark's commentary is engaging and conversational, making the video accessible to both Formula E enthusiasts and casual viewers. Their personal reactions and observations add an authentic layer to the viewing experience.

Shanghai Formula E: Electric Racing in China

Tim Chambers experienced the thrill of Shanghai's Formula E race, reaching the circuit via metro. A fun, educational adventure!

Shanghai Formula E Race: Metro Ride & Circuit Thrills

Tim Chambers and Mark attended the Shanghai Formula E race, reaching the Shanghai circuit via the metro. Despite lacking knowledge of the rules, they enjoyed the experience. The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship features electric cars racing on street circuits in major cities. The championship includes races known as e-Prix, awarding points for drivers and constructors. Formula E cars are high-speed, with a top speed of 322 km/h and advanced features like flash charging. The championship has global races and is considered the highest class of competition for electrically powered single-seater racing cars.

Attractions in this video: Shanghai Circuit