Twin suction turbines and 3-Gs in slow corners? Meet the DRG-Lola.
The world of single-seat racing is currently experiencing a surge of innovative technology, particularly in the realm of electric and autonomous vehicles. Recently, the A2RL crew showcased their autonomous race cars at Yas Marina in the Middle East, marking a significant improvement over their previous performance against human drivers. This event highlights the growing interest and advancements in self-driving technology within motorsport. Meanwhile, Formula E is gearing up for the introduction of its Gen4 era next year, which promises vehicles with enhanced downforce and nearly double the power output compared to previous models. Additionally, Formula 1 is on the brink of implementing new technical regulations that will usher in more powerful electric propulsion systems and active aerodynamics, setting the stage for a thrilling evolution in racing dynamics. Amidst these developments, the question arises: could there be an electric single-seater that outpaces all others on the track?
Enter the DRG-Lola, a groundbreaking racing concept brought to life by Lola Cars, a renowned British manufacturer that has recently made a comeback, in collaboration with Lucas di Grassi, a seasoned driver and advocate for sustainable racing technologies. Di Grassi’s vision for the DRG-Lola is not just theoretical; it is grounded in practical engineering, utilizing existing battery and motor technologies rather than relying on unproven advancements. This innovative vehicle is designed to produce an impressive 804 horsepower (600 kW) through a dual-motor system that powers both the front and rear axles, all while being supported by a 60 kWh battery pack strategically placed alongside the driver’s cockpit. The DRG-Lola represents a significant step toward realizing the potential of electric racing vehicles, combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to sustainability in motorsport.
As the racing industry continues to evolve with a focus on electrification and automation, the DRG-Lola stands out as a potential game-changer. With its powerful performance metrics and thoughtful design, it could redefine what is possible in single-seater racing. The excitement surrounding these advancements is palpable, as fans and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate how these technological innovations will shape the future of racing. Whether it’s through autonomous competitions, the high-stakes environment of Formula E, or the iconic circuits of Formula 1, the next few years promise to be an exhilarating time for motorsport, with the DRG-Lola poised to be at the forefront of this thrilling transformation.
We’re in something of a purple patch if you’re a fan of clever new technology in single-seat race cars. Out in the Middle East, the
autonomous A2RL crew
held another race at Yas Marina, one that by all accounts was a lot more impressive than the last time the self-driving race cars
competed against a human
. Formula E teams are getting ready for the debut next year of their Gen4 era, which sees cars with
real downforce and almost twice as much power
. Meanwhile, we only have a few months left before we see the results of F1’s new technical rules change, as the sport adopts
far more powerful electrical propulsion and active aerodynamics
. But what if there was an electric single-seater that was faster around a track than any of these?
That’s the idea behind the DRG-Lola, a racing concept designed from the ground up by Lola Cars, the
storied-now-reborn British race car manufacturer
, and Lucas di Grassi, veteran of the hybrid LMP1 sportscar days and FIA Formula E champion. Di Grassi is one of the more thoughtful racing drivers out there and is a passionate advocate of clean technologies in racing—in 2020
he shared his earlier thoughts
on where Formula E could take its technical direction.
The DRG-Lola is much closer to reality than that 2020 concept; di Grassi has relied on existing battery and motor technology, rather than some uninvented unobtanium to make it all work. It generates 804 hp (600 kW) from a pair of electric motors driving the front and rear axles and is powered by a 60 kWh battery pack that’s arranged in modules on either side of the driver’s cockpit.
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