Description
Introducing the Formula “e” Series. Just like the new “Big Car” FIA Formula E Series, this one is just smaller electric cars, a few different rules, and one big trophy for the winner of the series.
The inaugural series was a minimum of seven events with at least two (2) events on oval courses. Participating event organizers may choose to run other races on the same day but all Formula “e” Series events must be carefully tracked, points recorded, and detailed results submitted to the series coordinator within 48-hours of event completion.
Car Platform:
The 2021/22 Formula-e Series will feature the Jag Hobbies PR-5 platform with F1/Indy bodies. PR-5 “Lite” rules apply.
The inaugural Formula “e” series was attempted in December of 2019 and employed stock Tyco 440-X2 narrow chassis platforms without traction magnets. Traction mags are replaced with two (2) brass weights in the each empty traction magnet cavity. Exact-fit brass weights are out there that fit the 440-X2 traction magnet cavity perfectly. If you can’t find those, a 1/4″ solid brass rod can be cut to fit—they work great. I have a bunch of 1/4 brass rod and will be happy to make a batch of weights available for those who might need them. The other part required for the “Tyco Jet” platform is a Wizzard WTS13 independent front-end. Other than the above specific changes and the required changes in downforce restrictions, all SJSCC rules for the U-Build Lambo class apply.
Car Tech:
Just prior to each driver qualifying, their car will be quickly visually inspected and two measurements will be taken: 1) Car must pass through standard 1-5/16 tech block; 2) The car’s downforce will be measured on a host-chosen standard VRP MDM. The specific maximum downforce limit is is a variable but will be announced prior to each race.
Bodies:
Bodies, of course, will be any Indy/CART/F1 production hard body but must be complete with front and rear wings and all original OEM plastic–no exceptions. Any currently commercially available silicon slip-on tire allowed. Mounted front tire circumference cannot be less than .330, front and rear tire stagger is permitted. Shoe tension and profile modifications are permitted but all parts must be factory stock or exact OEM replacement parts. “Stock” means stock, no modifications other than what is permitted above.
Racing Formats:
Ovals
Individual qualifying, 6-lap average seeds event. Minimum 600-lap main event with 50-lap heats. Lap scoring with all racers completing all 50-lap heats (12 times through rotation). A minimum of one (1) pit stop required per heat for fuel and/or tires.
Road Courses
Individual qualifying, 3-lap average. Minimum 300-lap feature event with 25-lap heats (three times through rotation). Minimum of one (1) pit stop required per heat for fuel and/or tires.
Event Planning:
I tested the 600-Lap oval format in demo mode with Race Coordinator. If I recall correctly, it took about 3.5 hours to complete with 12 drivers and ~2.5-second laps. This did not include pit stops, yellow flags, track calls, or qualifying. So it is possible that a host could run at least one other race on the same day, maybe two.
Track Requirements:
Individual lane power control or multiple light sensors are not required to support pit stops. Currently only SlotTrak and Race Coordinator (RC) support “pit stop” race formats (Trackmate does not support this feature). SlotTrak and RC are donationware and available online. Both are very well supported and downloadable code is kept extremely current.
SlotTrak supports most track configurations using Trackmate’s SLC3 USB card and individual power control modules. RC does not support individual power control through the Trackmate SLC3 USB card, a Arduino “Uno” or “Mega” card is required. However, RC can utilize the Trackmate 4/6-Relay card often used for individual lane power control with SlotTrak or Trackmate timing systems.
SlotTrak has an edge over RC in the pit stop area right now due to being able to repeatedly cycle power when the car is low on fuel, which adds a little “realness” to the situation. For single-relay tracks a car does not lose power when out of fuel but laps are not counted when fuel runs out. As always, the latest versions of each software is highly recommended but may not be necessary.
Results:
All Formula “e” Series events must be carefully tracked, points recorded, and detailed results submitted to the series coordinator within 48-hours of event completion. Results must be complete, which must include qualifying, all heat results, and final points tally for each driver. Race Directors must resolve any raceday ties or protests prior to submission.
Points:
The points system for the Formula-e Series is the same as what was employed for the 2021 50/50 Racing Series. Click here for details.
Entry Fees:
No entree fee for Stewart Raceway members. Driver donations to help defray the cost of “end of series” awards are welcome, of course.
Event Hosting:
To make it easier on hosts and hostesses, providing anything other than the typical drinks and snacks is optional. Drivers are strongly encouraged to bring snacks and/or drinks also. This will help keep costs down to a minimum and hosting a bit easier on track operators. Unless otherwise specified in event announcements, participants should plan on bringing their own lunch for Formula “e” events or paying for their own sandwich from the local deli. Of course, participants are free to “donate” to track operators to help defray costs and track operators are encouraged to have a donation “bowl” (or wheelbarrow) accessible at each event.
Awards:
Per event awards are optional and up to the hosting track owner. Hosting track operators are required to post current or previous series standings. At the final race of the series, the winner of the series will be awarded a mondo trophy to take home and proudly display.
Each track operator decides what, if any, additional awards are provided for each event and the series finale.
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