UK race organiser the BRSCC has launched a national series for affordable all-electric single seaters. Dubbed Formula Foundation-E, it is described as a “club level” championship for amateur racers and, as a first step towards Formula E, for aspiring professionals.

The series uses a spec racecar designed and developed by RSR Technology in the UK. This company has been formed by Richard Huddart and Steve Wills. The latter has over 30 years experience of building junior level racing cars such as Formula Fords.

Snetterton Circuit based RSR’s FF-E1 spec single seater has a tube frame chassis and as such is the first of its type to incorporate a Formula One style ‘Halo’ driver protection device. It has a traditional mid-engine, rear wheel drive type layout with the powertrain housed entirely behind the driver.

A battery box and power pack are positioned immediately behind the rear of cockpit bulkhead, with the electric motor and power transfer case unit positioned slightly forward of the rear wheels in the interest of weight distribution. The weight of the FF-E1 car in full race trim is 550 kg.

The powertrain has been purpose-designed for the FF-E1 by ECOClassics. While ECOClassics’ core business is electric conversions of classic vehicles, RSR was confident it has the expertise to engineer its bespoke racing powertrain.

The FF-E1 utilises what is described as a unique transfer unit between its electric motor and differential, enabling the 120 kW (161 bhp) electric power unit to provide a seamless - gearbox free - 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 3 seconds, with a top speed in excess of 130mph.

The 350V DC lithium-ion battery pack has an 18 kWh useable capacity and described as capable of delivering multiple ‘sprint race’ sessions. Battery charging is by way of readily available 240v 32A outlets, with the option of a CCS DC fast charge system. The powertrain is described as essentially maintenance free and has a two-year warranty.