Mahindra Formula E team takes part in shakedown.

The Mahindra Formula E drivers Bruno Senna and Karun Chandhok tested their new Formula E car recently at a wet Donington Park circuit in the UK. Taking part in the first ever shakedown for the 10 Formula E teams, the Mahindra Racing drivers completed various system checks during the day’s running.

With this, the Mahindra Racing mechanics have made the seats and accordingly adjusted pedal positions to suit both drivers. With only one car yet delivered to each of the teams, Senna and Chandhok shared the team’s car. The car has been named Mahindra Nitro, a name that was acquired via a fun competition.

Senna was the first to take to the track, pulling out onto a wet Donington circuit. After a few technical issues, the Mahindra Nitro car was able to complete a number of laps that enabled them to check the battery and recharging systems. Chandhok drove the afternoon session. He completed two separate runs to add to the team’s knowledge of the fully electric machine.

Chandhok was excited to get his first taste of the Formula E car. He said that it is always  interesting driving a new car, but driving something so different made it really intriguing. The drive was only meant for a systems check. The team gathered information on the motor and battery. “It was also a chance for us as drivers to get a first impression. It’s clear this is going to be a category that is about strategy and intelligence rather than just pure driving speed. With the energy recovery systems and battery life you will have to think about strategy all the time. I think the fans are going to be impressed when they see all the cars on track,” Chandhok said.

 Team Principal Dilbagh Gill added that “it was also our first opportunity to work with and begin to understand the revolutionary technology on the Formula E cars”. He said that despite a few teething problems, the team was able to shake down the car and check it very thoroughly.

Chandhok and Senna will be back on track for the first full Formula E test from July 3 to 4, 2014 at the same Donington Circuit in the UK. In the meantime, Chandhok will be heading to France to participate in the Le Mans 24hrs race to be held on June 14. Chandhok is supported by long term supporters JK Tyre, as well as Tag Heuer,  Sidvin and the AVT group.

Source: Mahindra Racing.