Joel Eriksson experienced his first taste of the all-electric Formula E single-seater series on Sunday, getting to grips with the innovative championship during its official rookie test in Marrakesh (Morocco).
The test, which took place at Circuit Moulay El Hassan one day on from Saturday’s Marrakesh E-Prix at the same venue, saw Eriksson run with DS Virgin Racing alongside Ferrari Formula 1 protégé Antonio Giovinazzi (ITA).
The 19-year-old Swede swiftly got himself up to speed, ending the morning session third fastest – just two tenths adrift of ex-F1 racer and 2010 DTM champion Paul di Resta (GBR), who topped the times before a spell of rain arrived before the lunch break.
The fastest times of the day all came in the afternoon, however, as track conditions improved and the field conducted qualifying simulations in full-power 200 kW output mode.
Eriksson looked on course for another top three performance on his very last lap, posting quick times in the first two sectors (which included going second-fastest of all in sector two), only to run wide at the final corner and slip down to ninth on the timesheets.
Switzerland’s Nico Müller (Audi) ended the day fastest, 1.4s ahead of Eriksson – who still found himself just a few tenths outside the top three.
“It’s been a great experience here in Marrakesh, and I’m excited to have had my first taste of Formula E,” says Joel Eriksson. “It’s an interesting championship and completely different to everything I’ve done before, especially with the instant throttle response thanks to the electric powertrain. Also the sound of the car is different, and the brakes as well. It’s really cool trying to drive as fast as you can while managing energy levels – it adds an extra dimension.
“It was a shame I did that mistake on my final lap. It was a good lap until then, but overall I’m really pleased with how the test went and the pace we actually had. Thanks to DS Virgin Racing for the opportunity!”
Eriksson completed 52 laps throughout the day in Marrakesh.
The 2017 FIA Formula 3 European Championship runner-up now heads back to Sweden, where he will attend the annual Swedish Motorsport Awards in Gothenburg next weekend.
RESULTS
ABB FIA Formula E Championship
Marrakesh rookie test
Morning session
Afternoon session
