Formula E plan 'Mario Kart' power boosts

A shake-up in Formula E could see drivers given access to power boosts, with inspiration taken from the 'Mario Kart' video games! The mixed power modes will likely be introduced for the all-electric series' next-generation cars which will be used for the championship's fifth season.

The new models of Formula E cars will have enough power to complete a full race distance - drivers currently have to switch machines mid-race.

But eyebrows have been raised by suggestions that drivers could have access to power boosts if they run away from the racing line, similar to the prizes on offer to drivers in numerous cartoon-based 'karting' video games.

Whether cars will be able to drop oil slicks and bananas to give their rivals an extra obstacle to navigate remains to be seen...

"That is something we're looking at – it would be like Mario Bros when they get the little star and go faster," Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag told Motorsport of plans to give drivers boosts of pace.

"We will do a joint communication on how the race format is going to be together with the FIA. [But] I think it's going to be great. I'm really excited about it."

THE GEN2 FORMULA E CAR