London makes the list for 2014 Formula E electric race

London, Rome, Los Angeles, Miami, Beijing, Putrajaya, Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro will host races in 2014, according to Formula E Holdings, which hopes to announce the final two host cities in the coming months. The completed list has to be handed to the motorsport governing body, the FIA, by September.

FEH chairman, Alejandro Agag, said that 23 cities had formally declared their interest in hosting races, and he hopes to be able to announce further races in Australasia and Africa from 2015. ‘The fact that cities all over the world are interested in the FIA Formula E Championship is extremely heartening and shows a global commitment to clean mobility and sustainability,’ he said.

Agag is currently in talks with the eight shortlisted cities to establish exactly what’s needed in technical terms for them to host a street race involving 20 cars, including requirements for charging, and on the design of the circuits. ‘They will be in city centres, easily accessible by public transport, and will feature some of the most beautiful and well-known landmarks as a spectacular backdrop for the races,’ he said. ‘The fact that we will race in city centres highlights the main message of our Championship: the electric car as a solution for mobility in cities of the future.’