F1 star Max Verstappen gives early approval of Formula E’s Gen4 car

Formula E is gearing up to debut a new 800bhp car that is expected to change the championship’s perception

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Photo by: Brett Farmer / LAT Images via Getty Images

Max Verstappen appears to be softening his stance on Formula E, telling Jaguar driver Antonio Felix da Costa that he “likes” the series’ upcoming Gen4 contender.

The Dutchman has long been seen as an old-school driver and has never shown interest in electric racing. His remark that the 2026 regulations have turned Formula 1 into ‘Formula E on steroids’ was widely interpreted as a thinly-veiled swipe at the all-electric series.

But Formula E is set for its own major overhaul next season, which could revolutionise the championship and make it more appealing to drivers. Featuring an 800bhp powertrain, permanent all-wheel drive and active differential, the Gen4 car is expected to deliver a 10 second improvement in lap time, potentially making FE the second-fastest category behind F1.

Following the official launch of the Gen4 car at Paul Ricard late last month, Verstappen shared his reaction in a text message with his friend and Jaguar driver da Costa.

“[Verstappen] liked it,” the Portuguese driver told Motorsport.com. “He was very critical of the Gen3, but he was happy with the Gen 4.”

Asked whether Verstappen would be interested in testing the Gen4 car, following a “naughty” invitation from Formula E’s CEO Jeff Dodds in February, da Costa added: “You have to ask him.”

Verstappen’s comment was welcomed by Formula E, which continues to face challenges in gaining acceptance from traditional motorsport fans.

“[Verstappen] spoke with one of the drivers in Formula E, with Antonio Felix da Costa. And he literally said something like, ‘it’s cool’, which we take it,” Formula E’s chief commercial officer Alberto Longo told Motorsport.com

The Gen4 car will be introduced in the 2026/27 season, which is expected to begin in December and feature up to 19 races.

Manufacturers have already begun building and testing their Gen4 powertrains, with some drivers on the grid getting an early chance to sample the package in Europe.

Da Costa, who won the 2019/20 Formula E title with DS Penske, described the Gen4 car as a “massive step”.

“I haven’t done much with it but I’ve had the chance to do a little bit with it, and it’s obviously very exciting stuff,” he said.

“More power, bigger car, more grip, and the technology on the whole car is a massive step. The way we have to set it up with software and mechanically, so it’s going to be a massive challenge for the drivers and the teams.”