Formula E

Electrifying Logistics in the Race to Berlin

DHL builds on 30 years of motorsports logistics
Multimodal solutions dramatically cut carbon emissions
First-of-their-kind batteries present the greatest logistics challenge
Passionate about our partners, passionate about innovation
The track is on the 'Apron’ section of historic Tempelhof Airport
A close-up of our multimodal solutions for Formula E
Formula E’s inaugural year has been nothing short of exciting!

Moving 40 state-of-the-art electric racing cars around the world is no small task. For DHL, getting Formula E to the starting line in time for lights out is just one piece of the puzzle; safety and cutting carbon are just as important. 

The Formula E DHL Berlin ePrix this Saturday brings the world’s newest international race series to DHL’s home turf for the first time and we’re excited about it. We have more than 30 years of experience in motorsport logistics — and helping to deliver Formula E to the world and help the world accelerate towards a sustainable future has been one heck of a ride so far. The Race to Berlin has been a long journey, but one we’re pretty proud of.

Check out the infographic in the image gallery above to learn more.

Carbon-cutting calendar
From early 2013 through the inaugural race in Beijing and now as we approach the DHL Berlin ePrix, we’ve collaborated closely with series organizer FEH to hone the inaugural race calendar. Together, we optimized the order and schedule of events to allow us to make significant use of sea and rail freight. Though air transport is faster, using ships and trains wherever possible will dramatically cut carbon emissions. 

All teams use the Spark-Renault SRT_01E for the first season; drivers each need two cars to make it to the finish line.

An explosive challenge
Perhaps the biggest logistics challenge of all is transporting the first-of-their-kind battery packs that power the Formula E racing cars. Built by Williams Advanced Engineering, the batteries are encased in structural boxes; they weigh 320kg each and contain 200kg of lithium ion cells. Batteries are potentially explosive and heavily regulated by aviation authorities – moving them from one continent to another has required considerable risk identification and mitigation. 

Global reach, global value 
Formula E is built on the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, social and commercial performance. These chime with our mission to improve our carbon efficiency by 30% by 2020. We will roll out the lessons we learn through our work with Formula E worldwide, helping our customers, our clients and our industry to secure a better future for us all. 

Spark-Renault SRT_01E

  • Top Speed (limited) - 140MPH
  • Battery: 28KWH
  • Peak Power: 200KW
  • 0-60MPH <30secs
  • MGU: McLaren Motor control unit (inverter): McLaren 
  • Batteries: Williams ECU: McLaren 
  • Transmission: Hewland five speed Chassis: Dallara 
  • 18” Wheels: OZ Racing 
  • Brakes: Alcon 
  • Tires: Michelin 18” treaded, all-weather 

Innovation through passion 
Sponsorship is not simply a marketing exercise. We contribute value to every partner, through increased efficiencies, cutting time and cost, and seeking solutions that are better for the environment. Here are just a few of the initiatives we support

About Formula E
Formula E is the revolutionary FIA-sanctioned motorsport that sees all-electric, single-seater cars racing on city center street circuits across the globe. The sport will turbocharge the development and adoption of electric propulsion technologies, which will help clean up urban pollution and usher in healthier cities.

Watch all the highlights from the races so far this season!

 

 

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