Electric GT World Series to start with Tesla Model S

Although Formula E may be a dawn of new beginning, some felt that the race was not as exciting as it should have been. To add to the fire, critics said that it isn't a good representation of what real all-electric motorsport actually could be. As a response, a new racing series is expected to be put together soon and it'll be called the Electric GT World Series, Transport Evolved reports.

The series – slated to commence in 2017 – will see a total of twenty drivers from ten teams for its inaugural race season. As opposed to Formula E, the race will be based on electric cars that can be bought by consumers rather than purpose built racecars. The base cars of the all-electric GT championship will be the Tesla Model S P85+, the only car that that's deemed suitable, at this moment in time.

"It is the best zero emissions car on the road capable of racing on world class circuits in the GT category. In its production version it accelerates faster and provides better lap times than many combustion GT cars." said Agustin Paya, technical director for Electric GT Holdings. Paya also happens to be the co-founder and promoter of the up-and-coming championship series.

According to him, the P85+ was chosen over the new P90D Model S due to its suitability for racing. Rear-wheel drive vehicles are usually preferred for track racing due to cornering characteristics and weight distribution – there's also less complications when it comes to quick repairs and maintenance.

Furthermore, the stock figures (415 hp/600 Nm) alone makes the S85+ a worthy track car. Meanwhile, the battery pack with a capacity of 85 kWh, still makes it a better overall car than the 28 kWh Formula E race car. This essentially equates to longer race-times as well. That said, a few enhancements will be made to the Model S in preparation for the race series.

"We are making only small changes to the production Model S P85+ such as improved braking and aerodynamics to increase high speed grip. We will strengthen suspension, braking cooling and steering as well as reducing overall weight. The rest – powertrain, battery, programming —everything is original," Paya highlighted.

The inaugural race will start in Europe and cross through North America and Asia. While Formula E uses makeshift tracks built on everyday streets, the Electric GT World Series will race on official racing circuits instead. The organisers say that it is currently discussing dates for races to be held at Barcelona-Catalunya, Donnington Park, Mugello, the Nurburgring, Assen, Estoril and Madrid Jarama.

Electric GT's official race calendar will be announced some time this year, while the official venue has yet to be confirmed. The weekend-long race, will see an in-field festival of technology and sustainable innovation to be held for visitors. On that note, the race will make use of multimedia to the best that it can to enhance visitor and viewer experience on- and off-track.

Although the Tesla Model S, seems like the main (and only) electric vehicle that's capable of tackling future series, Electric GT founders say that the race is open to other automakers. Brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi and (even Rimac) are welcomed, however only provided that they are production vehicles, not concepts.

Source: Electric GT World Series to start with Tesla Model S