Back-of-the-grid Start Results in Difficult Swiss E-Prix for NIO
NIO drivers Tom Dillmann and Oliver Turvey encountered a very challenging final European race of the ABB FIA Formula E Championship season in Bern on Saturday 22nd June, after starting at the back for the Julius Baer Swiss E-Prix.
Facing a tall order from the final row of the grid, Dillmann and Turvey, starting 21st and 22nd respectively, initially profited from a chaotic race start when a multi-car incident into the first chicane blocked the track.
Able to take to the chicane escape road in avoidance, Dillmann emerged in 10th just ahead of Turvey prior to the race being red flagged. Following a delay of around 40 minutes, the officials decided to re-start the race in the original grid order behind the Safety Car.
Positions see-sawed during the remainder of the E-Prix, with penalties and numerous issues afflicting several drivers and, despite a late rain shower, French driver Dillmann was able to take a 15th place finish with Britain’s Turvey just behind in 16th spot.
Oliver Turvey, Race Driver, NIO Formula E Team:
“Looking at the layout of the circuit we arrived knowing it would be a challenge for us. It’s a new and exciting track and was really fun to drive. However, qualifying didn’t quite go to plan and starting from the back was always going to be difficult. The race was tough, we did everything we could but unfortunaltely it just did not go our way today.”
Tom Dillmann, Race Driver, NIO Formula E Team:
“My aim was to push for points today. Despite my best efforts, I was not able to find an opportunity to challenge for positon as I struggled for pace. We didn’t have a smooth race, but we finished without being caught up in any incidents on track.”
Gérry Hughes, Team Principal, NIO Formula E Team:
“It’s been an interesting experience racing in Bern, the track is quite a unique layout and the road surfaces represent a real challenge for the drivers. Unfortunately, the race was always going to be another tough one for the NIO Formula E Team which, of course, wasn’t helped by a difficult qualifying session earlier in the day.
Now, we’re all looking forward to the return to New York City next month for the final two races of the season. As always, we’ll strive to achieve the absolute maximum we can from our current package.”
With the European part of the Season 5 calendar now completed, all that remains is the hotly anticipated ABB FIA Formula E Championship finale in New York City, USA, over the weekend 13th/14th July.
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