With a blast from their high-tuned engines, F1 (L) and FE cars (R) power around the track. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
This April and May, Shanghai's Jiading district will host a thrilling automotive cultural festival featuring the return of the FIA Formula One World Championship (F1) Chinese Grand Prix after a five-year hiatus, alongside the debut of the FIA Formula E World Championship (FE) in the city.
Despite their similar appearances, F1 and FE cars differ significantly in their power sources. F1 cars use internal combustion engines, while FE cars are pure electric vehicles, powered by batteries.
This distinction results in a unique experience for spectators, with F1 cars reaching speeds of over 300 kilometers per hour and producing a loud, exhilarating roar. FE cars, on the other hand – with speeds of around 320 km/h – offer a quieter, more eco-friendly racing experience.
In addition to the differences in power sources, the racing events offer distinct spectator experiences and competition formats.
F1 races are known for their high-speed excitement and strategic tire changes, while FE races, with their compact pace and innovative features like "Fanboost" and "Attack Mode", provide a fresh, interactive experience for fans.
The return of the F1 Chinese Grand Prix, scheduled for April 19-21, marks a significant moment for Shanghai, a city that has become a focal point for racing in Asia.
Meanwhile, the debut of the FE event in Shanghai on May 25-26 is said to add a new chapter to the city's racing culture.
The decision to host these events in Shanghai is understood to reflect its status as a leader in the electric vehicles industry, with Jiading being a hub for the research and development of new energy vehicles.
The racing events have been designed to not only cater to the growing trend of electric vehicles, but also contribute to the development of the local automotive industry.
As Shanghai continues to consolidate its position as a hub for motor racing, the introduction of the top international racing events is expected to further raise its status as a globally renowned sports city.
The 1,000th F1 race takes place in Jiading district. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
Fans roar their approval during a thrilling FE race. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
Wu Yue contributed to this story.