BMW unveils iFE.18; announces da Costa and Sims

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]BMW has taken the wraps off the iFE.18 that will contest season five of the ABB Formula E Championship, while also confirming Alexander Sims for a race seat alongside already-established driver Antonio Felix da Costa.

The German marque has taken a more substantial role in the running of the Andretti team, which will henceforth be known as BMW i Andretti, and hopes to add to its current tally of five podiums as well as pick up its maiden victory in the series.

da Costa will start his third season with the Andretti-run squad and looks to return to being a regular point-scorer having endured a torrid season in 2017-18 where he finished 15th in the standings with only 20 points.

“I know Formula E really well and was always convinced that BMW would enter as a manufacturer one day. Now, to be part of this team is an incredible motivator,” said the Portuguese.

Alexander Sims will make his race debut with BMW.

Having been previously overlooked for a seat in season four in favour of Tom Blomqvist, self-proclaimed EV geek Sims will make his race debut in Saudi Arabia after carrying out extensive testing work for the team.

The Englishman said: “Formula E has quickly become the place for top manufacturers and top drivers to meet. I am honoured to be entrusted with taking on this adventure in collaboration with BMW i Motorsport.”

Andretti Autosport CEO Michael Andretti is excited to see the iFE.18 in action and hopes to be at the top of the sport in season five after propping up the field in season four.

“I can’t wait to see BMW i Andretti Motorsport hit the race track in Season 5. I believe we have the right partners, drivers and personnel in place to compete at the very top level of Formula E,” said Andretti.

“Everyone on both sides have been dedicated to the development of the new BMW iFE.18 and I look forward to seeing it in action. We are entering not only a new era of Formula E, but of motorsport as a whole.”

BMW becomes the fourth team to announce its full line up, with Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler, Panasonic Jaguar Racing and Venturi having already confirmed their respective drivers.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_gallery interval=”5″ images=”16355,16363,16365,16362,16366,16364,16359,16361,16360,16358,16367,16356″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row]