For the most observant fans and followers of Formula E, it’s hard not to notice the emerging similarities between the electric series and the 2026 Australian Grand Prix in Formula 1. Strategies such as Lift and Coast, battery management, electric power deployment, energy regeneration, and mid-race charging have become central elements in F1’s evolving playbook. Since 2014, Formula 1’s approach to energy management has been in constant flux, and in 2026 it seems to be reaching new heights – in ways that, at times, closely mirror what has long been standard practice in Formula E.
Watching the recent Australian Grand Prix – particularly at the race start and during the first stint – fans might have noticed an almost direct convergence between the two championships. From practice sessions to qualifying and the main race, the 2026 Formula 1 cars have pushed Lift and Coast strategies to the extreme. Position changes are now more “fluid,” less dependent on the traditional racing line or braking zones, and increasingly connected to differences in available energy. While the introduction of DRS in 2011 already reduced the frequency of classic overtakes, the new regulations in 2026 make position swaps even less about pure on-track battles, echoing many Formula E races.
Adding to this is the critical role of battery management, with associated power cuts and significant variations in speed on straights and through corners. In short, it almost seems as if Formula 1 has been taking notes from Formula E. Yet, while the electric series has implemented these policies consistently since its very first season, refining its characteristics over time, Formula 1 is only now exploring similar strategies. In Melbourne, this shift already raised questions and sparked debates among teams and fans alike.
Heading toward new strategies
In recent seasons, Formula E has been redefining the internal competition dynamics, increasingly introducing the “speed” variable, especially on street circuits. This has become particularly evident with the Gen3 Evo cars and rapid recharging systems, leading to races that reward outright pace while still requiring careful energy management. Overtakes now carry more tangible weight, and the upcoming Gen4 cars are expected to continue this trend, with significant potential for strategic evolution and performance improvements.
Of course, on traditional street circuits, the competition remains highly tactical. Slipstreams are vital, and drivers tend to push harder in the final laps. On city tracks, however, there’s a sense that drivers are frequently approaching the limits of their machines. In qualifying, the unique single-lap format of Formula E amplifies this effect, producing tight, head-to-head battles that keep fans on the edge of their seats.
The value of experience
Beyond the sporting aspect, the Australian Grand Prix offered some early insights. These, in turn, highlighted once again the link between Formula E and Formula 1. Mercedes, in particular, demonstrated at Albert Park their ability to charge and deploy battery energy optimally, extracting peak power precisely when needed on key sections of the track. Some observers have connected this advantage to Mercedes’ extensive experience in Formula E.
As part of the E-category under HWA Racelab, and from the following season until 2022, Mercedes participated directly in the series as the Mercedes-EQ Formula E Team, while also supporting the ROKiT Venturi Racing team. Across three seasons, Mercedes-EQ achieved two Teams’ Championships (Seasons 7 and 8) and two Drivers’ Championships, building a formidable technical and sporting expertise.
In summary, even taking a purely technical perspective, the two FIA categories have once again demonstrated how many common elements they share. Fans and teams alike will be watching closely as future regulations and innovations continue to shape the increasingly intertwined worlds of Formula E and Formula 1.
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