The promoters of the brand new FIA Formula E series, in which the cars will be powered by electric energy, are targeting India as a destination for a race in their inaugural series in 2014.
India is being viewed differently by the motorsport world after it successfully hosted the Formula One Grand Prix last year.
Within the next six months, the World Superbike championship will make its debut in India and talks are also on to bring the GT1 series as well.
FIA President Jean Todt has signed an agreement with a group of investors — Formula E Holdings Ltd (FEH) — to stage the Formula E series, which will have 10 teams and 20 drivers.
Alejandro Agag, the CEO of Formula E, said they want India to be part of the series.
“We would like to have a race in India, but we are open about the city. We will see what our options are and then decide,” Agag told PTI in an interview.
“Formula E is certainly focussing on emerging markets to develop the championship. Establishing a base in India would reflect that strategy. We might look for a local partner in India to work with us to set up the race,” Agag, who already supports teams in the GP2 and GP3 series, said.
The organisers have not yet decided on the city although Mumbai was initially mentioned as one of the venues.
JPSI, the owners of the Buddh International Circuit (BIC) — the venue of the F1 Indian Grand Prix, said they are open to the idea of hosting such a race.