Why Formula E is streets ahead of F1 for carmakers
Formula E is poised to overtake Formula 1 for manufacturer representation on its grid. DIETER RENCKEN says it's easy to see why after a weekend in the Paris ePrix paddock
During a visit to the Geneva International Motor Show - as a paying punter, not a wined-and-dined media member - it became apparent that motor manufacturers are, publicly at least, shying away from the bragging rights endowed by motorsport successes and usually seized upon by victorious brands, for both image purposes and as proof of engineering prowess.
The Volkswagen Group rolled out not a single competition car there, yet the VW roundel and Audi's Four Rings were on display - on a Formula E racer on performance partner Abt's stand. Indeed, FE cars outnumbered the various Formula 1 chassis on display, including historic grand prix machinery.
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