Formula E has signed multi-year agreements making DHL and Qualcomm official founding partners of the new electric-powered motor-racing championship.
As the logistics supplier and a founding partner, DHL was responsible for the transportation of the Formula E car from Paris to Frankfurt for its official unveiling at the German city’s International Motor Show today (Tuesday).
In the context of the championship series, DHL will provide Formula E with an extensive range of logistics services, incorporating the most efficient and green technology and processes available today.
Alejandro Agag, chief executive of championship promoter Formula E Holdings, said: “DHL’s long-term cooperation with regards to other motorsport championships has proved fruitful for both sides and delivered exceptional value. The logistics side of our Championship presents a great opportunity to showcase how to transport 40 cars and all associated elements while minimising the carbon footprint of the operation. The strategy is not just offsetting. First, we will look at minimising the emissions, and whatever is left, we will offset in order to be a carbon neutral Championship.”
The agreement with Qualcomm will allow the US wireless technology firm and Formula E to showcase mobile and electronic vehicle technologies globally and demonstrate how current and future generations can benefit from wireless, sustainable technology on and off the track.
Qualcomm will advise Formula E in its bid to incorporate new and more sustainable technologies into the racing series. As a start, Qualcomm Halo Wireless Electric Vehicle Charging (WEVC) technology will be adapted to be fitted into the 2014-15 Formula E safety cars so they can be wirelessly charged. The wireless charging system will be made available to the race cars from season two.
Qualcomm Halo WEVC technology uses resonant magnetic induction to transfer energy between a ground-based pad and a charging pad on the electric vehicle. As part of its advisory role, Qualcomm will also evaluate the connectivity and mobile technology of each of the 10 venue cities around the world, providing solutions to help enhance the spectator experience around the circuit such as live streaming to fans, video gaming and social media.
“Our collaboration with the FIA Formula E Championship is not just a great opportunity to showcase Qualcomm technologies such as our Halo WEVC system, but to evaluate and improve wireless connectivity and EV technology across the globe, especially in the host cities,” Paul Jacobs, chairman and chief executive officer of Qualcomm, said. “We hope this arrangement will leverage mobile technology to enhance the fan experience and impact the global movement towards more sustainable living.”
Commencing in 2014, the Formula E Championship will take place in the heart of 10 of the world’s leading cities – including London, Beijing and Los Angeles – racing around their iconic landmarks.