Evans raises Formula E 'safety' concern: 'That scares me'

Mitch Evans has urged for "safety" to be a top priority in Formula E this season, after raising concerns over the new impact of Attack Mode. 

Following the introduction of the brand-new Gen3 EVO – the fastest accelerating FIA single-seater – attack mode has become relevant again. 

In seasons nine and 10 it was borderline useless; however, the Gen3 EVO being capable of four-wheel drive has made the in-race feature more dramatic than ever before. 

When attack mode is activated, a driver's car goes from two-wheel drive to four, with the usual addition of power (increases by 50kW to 350kW). 

It was seen in action for the first time in December's São Paulo season-opener, which Evans magnificently won from last on the grid. 

Attack mode was extraordinary, with the sudden pace difference being almost unbelievable. A frantic spectacle was created as a result, which worries Evans when looking ahead to tighter circuits on the calendar. 

When asked if attack mode is now too powerful, Evans told RacingNews365: "I don't know, I just think strategy now is just wild. So when we get to, let's say, tighter tracks, that scares me a little bit.

"Like London, even like Monaco to an extent, just because of how quick we approach the other cars [in front]. 

"So I hope... I think safety is going to have to be at the front of our minds, because it's just the closing speeds at times is quite rapid. 

"But yeah, this new attack mode on four-wheel drive is really going to shake things up."

Formula E street circuit safety

When attack mode was used in São Paulo, it was not uncommon for those using the system to overtake several cars per lap. 

It seemed impossible to defend against, due to the boost in speed in all areas. Whilst it was exciting, some scary moments were also produced. 

The São Paulo Street Circuit is one of the fastest in the all-electric championship's history, despite not being a purpose-built venue. 

FE has visited an increasing number of permanent circuits in recent seasons, something a large number of fans are against. 

However, with the sudden power of attack mode, and the sport only to become quicker when Gen4 is introduced, the question has been raised if sticking to its street circuit DNA is both suitable, and safe. 

"It depends which way you look at," said Evans. "The approach speed between both powers now can feel quite high. 

"If you're on attack mode or off attack mode, you have to be very aware of your surroundings, because of guys coming flying past or you coming flying past people and people maybe not expecting you. 

"So it depends, for those more Formula E tracks – I do put Sao Paulo in that category but it's a different layout – it can go one of two ways. 

"One, it maybe makes it a bit more dangerous, or those tracks that might be a little bit more tricky to overtake on, like London, it really opens up overtaking for those tracks. So I think until we've actually experienced it on those circuits, it's a little bit hard to judge."