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Are F1 Cars Electric?

Recently, I’ve loved watching Formula 1 racing on television. The competitions, rivalries, and sheer speed of the races make it an enticing event to watch. But, as I’ve begun watching, I’ve found myself wondering about the cars that are able to race in these extreme conditions. Specifically, are Formula 1 cars electric?

avatar
Alexandra Maloney · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
How fun that you’ve begun watching
Formula 1
racing on television—it’s always a very exciting sporting event! The short answer to your question is no, Formula 1 racing cars are not electric. Let’s dive deeper into some of the mechanics behind why it’s impossible for F1 cars to be
electric cars
.
In a nutshell, the races you’re watching Formula 1 drivers compete in are typically about 200 miles at top speed. With the electric car technology available today, a battery-powered engine simply wouldn’t be able to sustain 200 miles straight without needing to recharge. Because Formula 1 is all about speed, momentum, and exhilaration, drivers wouldn’t be happy if they had to pause their race to charge their car for close to thirty minutes!
Today, all F1 racing cars carry the same engine—a 1.6-liter four stroke turbocharged 90-degree V6 reciprocating engine. While they aren’t great for the environment, these engines are likely here to stay in Formula 1 racing because of their power and performance. Unless a car brand comes out with an eco-friendly, long-lasting, battery engine soon, we probably won’t see electric F1 cars on our screens for a while.
While Formula 1 drivers might not need average car insurance for their racing vehicles, you do need car insurance for whatever vehicle you might be driving on an everyday basis. When you need to find car insurance, use
Jerry
—a quick, easy, and efficient way to find the best rates on car insurance.
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