Los Angeles to Host All-Electric Race Series ‘Formula E’

Image: Formula E Holdings

Ten cities worldwide will be participating in what is being called Formula E series, a race that will feature open-wheel electric cars. Los Angeles is one of the participating cities, and could host the event as early as next year, according to Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa.

The Los Angeles Times is reporting that the all-electric race series, Formula E, will be the first event in the world to feature “fully electric open-wheel race cars similar to those that recently raced at the Long Beach Grand Prix.” Along with nine other cities, Los Angeles will host the event in the coming year in hopes of demonstrating that electric cars “are a viable and fun alternative to gas-powered machines.”

Villaraigosa said, “Imagine cutting-edge technology on display that will push the boundaries of what electric cars can do.” The races will be held in cities that are already quite receptive to hybrid cars, such as Los Angeles.

Organized and promoted by Formula E Holdings, the races will include famous drivers in electric cars, in hopes of transforming perceptions about more eco-friendly vehicles. The Los Angeles race is expected to be held in late 2014 or early 2015.

The races will take place in Rome, London, Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, Beijing, Putrajaya, Miami and Los Angeles. The additional cities have not yet been announced.

CNet reports that the races will last approximately an hour each and the cars are expected to hit speeds of 140 mph.

Like Haute Living Los Angeles? Join our Facebook page or follow us on Twitter @HauteLivingLA. Want Haute Living Los Angeles delivered to your inbox once a week? Sign up for our newsletter.