DS Penske driver Maximilian Gunther is currently in Germany for his home race, the Berlin E-Prix. The 28-year-old is well aware of the challenges of the Tempelhof Airport Street Circuit, which remains the oldest venue on the Formula E calendar.
Drivers not only face challenging energy management but also high tyre degradation, which can affect and alter their race strategies and results. Here is how Gunther has explained the nitty-gritties of the Berlin E-Prix.
Maximilian Gunther shares challenges and advantages of Berlin E-Prix
In an interview with FormulaE.com, Maximilian Gunther explained the main challenges of the historic Tempelhof Circuit, which is hosting the 12th season of the Berlin E-Prix. He said, "There aren't many bumps, which are typical of other circuits. Instead, there are different concrete plates next to each other, which create a constant vibration when you drive. So that's another element where you always have these small vibrations through the steering wheel throughout the whole lap."
Adding a positive point about the track, he said, "Like a normal Formula E circuit, we still have the walls, so we have to get really close to them and use all the road available without making a mistake. But generally, this track is quite wide, wider than a typical Formula E street circuit. So a good thing is the overtaking; we have really good opportunities."
Will the temperature also make the Berlin E-Prix challenging?
The temperature is expected to be around 13 to 27 degrees Celsius on Sunday, for the Round 8 race, which may be a matter of concern for the drivers if it becomes too warm for them to manage battery temperatures as well.
He said, "It's dependent on ambient track temperature how critical tyre management will be. Certainly, I remember it was already a factor in these races that you needed to manage not only your energy, which on a track like this is crucial, but also look after tyre condition. This can be the difference between winning or losing the race, especially in the later stages. I would say these are the two main challenges. I don't know how hot it will be; if it's super hot, then there could be an additional element, which is the battery temperature."
Gunther has been having a challenging season in Formula E this year. He is currently 16th in the Drivers' Standings with 8 points. Let's hope he manages to turn things around on his home ground.
