Saudi Arabian female racing driver Reem Al Aboud has successfully set a new benchmark in single-seater racing, after successfully eclipsing the current 0-60 mph acceleration time set by Formula 1, using the Formula E GENBETA race car.
F1 has been renowned for being the fastest accelerating single-seater car; however, that is now a thing of the past. The current F1 cars can achieve 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds, Al Aboud managed to go from 0-60 mph in just 2.49 seconds.
The Formula E GENBETA race car is an 'unlocked' Gen3 race car created by the all-electric series and the FIA, with 400kW of power and improvements from partners: Hankook Tyre, SABIC, ABB and Google Cloud.
Aboud's record-breaking run comes ahead of International Women's Day [March 8], with Formula E's commitment to innovation and diversity being clearer than ever before.
"Being a part of this landmark moment is a dream come true," said Al Aboud.
"It's not just about the speed; it's about breaking barriers and showcasing the immense potential of women in motorsports. Formula E has given me the platform to make a statement, and I'm honoured to be a part of this journey towards gender equality in racing."
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'A leap forward for inclusivity in racing'
Al Aboud's relationship with Formula E started back in 2018, when she became the youngest Saudi woman to drive at a Formula E circuit in a Nissan Gen2 car. 2018 was also the year women were granted the right to drive in Saudi Arabia.
Al Aboud and Formula E breaking F1's record is another huge milestone for the young series, which returns next weekend in São Paulo.
"The benchmark achieved by Reem is a testament to what we stand for at Formula E: Innovation, equality, and competition," said Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds. "Her success is not just a win for Formula E, but a leap forward for inclusivity in racing, and we all join her in celebrating this milestone, especially ahead of International Women's Day.”
Following Formula E's remarkable achievement, it was announced that the FIA Girls on Track initiative saw a 140% increase in participation during Season 9, compared to Season 8.
By the end of the current season, the all-electric series will have benefited over 4,500 girls since the beginning of Season 5. FIA Girls on Track is a a large-scale female empowerment initiative for females aged 12-18, educating them on potential careers in motorsport.
“The growth of this leading programme has been incredible to see as young girls start to embrace and pursue opportunities around STEM education and motorsport," said Julia Pallé, Formula E's VP Sustainability.
"Formula E is a pioneer in this space and acts as a genuine platform to upskill and educate girls, but most importantly giving them confidence to pursue their dreams and achieve great things within the motorsport sector.”
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