Formula E confirms exploratory discussions with Ferrari

Formula E has confirmed holding "discussions" with Ferrari over possibly entering the all-electric championship.

CEO Jeff Dodds recently teased the possibility that talks had started over the prospect of Ferrari joining a series that already includes a stable of great manufacturing names, including Porsche, Jaguar, McLaren, Maserati, and Nissan.  

It has now been confirmed to RacingNews365 that dialogue between the Italian manufacturer and Formula E has occurred, although Ferrari's interest is exploratory at this stage.

A Formula E spokesperson said: "Really nothing concrete at this stage, but I know they have been in touch and discussions have been had.

"With any new OEM it takes ages to get their commitment over the line, so [it is] more of a long game."

Ferrari's EV promise

Ferrari has taken a significant turn towards EV technology recently, with the manufacturer working on a €500 million 'e-building' in Maranello, which will be inaugurated on June 21. 

The historic company has been selling hybrid-electric cars since 2019 but has promised to produce its first fully EV-vehicle by the end of next year, meaning a significant shift towards battery production. 

Should Ferrari want to take its EV technology to the race track, naturally Formula E represents the ideal avenue. 

For now, Ferrari has stressed it is focusing on F1, the World Endurance Championship and its upcoming venture into sailing.

A Ferrari spokesperson told RacingNews365: "Our focus today is on F1 and endurance, and [we] have recently announced we will be taking the race where we never have before (the water)."