The Monaco E-Prix has consistently ranked among the most glamorous race events globally, and this year was no exception. Formula E broadcast analyst and former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard conducted a demonstration run in the Formula E GEN4 car on the second day of Round 10 in Monaco. He was thoroughly impressed by the machine's capabilities, leaving thousands of spectators at the Circuit de Monaco in awe. Among the spectators was reigning F1 champion Lando Norris, who later examined the car himself and expressed a strong desire to drive one.
David Coulthard Left in Awe After Driving the GEN4 in Monaco
David Coulthard was full of praise, albeit slightly breathless, after completing four laps around the Circuit de Monaco during Day 2 of the Monaco E-Prix. In his review of the GEN4 car, the Scotsman explained that comparing the GEN3 with the GEN4 is impossible, as the new car's all-wheel-drive system delivers acceleration unlike anything he has ever experienced.
Giving the car a huge thumbs up, Coulthard said, "That is the most acceleration I've ever experienced around Monaco. Where I've just taken it compared to what those guys will do with it... They'll experience something nobody has in racing. I'm speechless! What a machine!"
He added, "You can't compare GEN3 to GEN4 at all. GEN3 and GEN3 Evo are state of the art for their time, but GEN4 with all-wheel drive, every exit is acceleration like you've never experienced. Once you're through an apex, you realise the car can take everything you throw at it. It's just not normal. It's redefining what a race car can be."
Describing it as something straight out of Star Wars, Coulthard said, "I've driven a lot of cars over the years, I have an understanding of what all-wheel drive could feel like, but a car under 1000kg with 800+bhp in old money, that's an impressive getaway. First time through the tunnel, it was like hyperdrive from Star Wars! I've been through there thousands of times but never like that."
The GEN4 car will make its competitive debut in Formula E Season 13, which begins in December this year. Lando Norris also took a closer look at the car during the Monaco E-Prix weekend. The event attracted a huge celebrity presence, from former Red Bull team principal Christian Horner to F1 drivers such as Norris and Gabriel Bortoleto. Oliver Bearman and Nico Hulkenberg were also in attendance alongside Bortoleto on Day 1 of the event.
