As Formula E continues to evolve, drivers face the dual challenge of adapting to cutting-edge technology while delivering consistent results on track. 2024-2025 Formula E Champion, Oliver Rowland finds himself navigating exactly that balance in 2026. With flashes of strong performance offset by inconsistency, Rowland approaches the upcoming race weekend with determination and realism. At the same time, the anticipation surrounding the next generation of Formula E cars adds another layer of excitement to the championship’s future. Rowland discussed this in an exclusive interview with Pit Debrief ahead of the 2026 Berlin E-Prix.
Defending Formula E champion Rowland searching for consistency as he chases points at 2026 Berlin E-Prix
When asked about his expectations ahead of the weekend, Rowland avoided bold predictions, instead focusing on refining key areas of performance. His approach reflects his experience and a strong understanding of how competitive Formula E has become.
“I don’t like to set expectations but I think, you know, personal goals are probably just to find a little bit of performance back that we had last year. A bit more consistency, particularly over one lap and then just to score really good points in the races, I think.”
In particular, Qualifying performance remains crucial. Strong one-lap pace often dictates race outcomes in Formula E, where track position can make a decisive difference.
Embracing the GEN4 evolution
Beyond the immediate race weekend, Rowland also reflected on the broader technological journey of Formula E. From GEN2 to GEN3, the cars have steadily improved, yet the next leap promises to be even more significant.
“I think for us as racing drivers, you know, especially through GEN2, GEN3, the cars have obviously increased in performance but they’re still not really at the level of like, let’s say, WEC or Formula 1. But I think the car they’ve built looks really, really impressive. I think we’re all looking forward to driving something with a bit more power and a bit more grip.”
Consequently, GEN4 represents not just incremental progress but a potential transformation in how the cars feel and perform. Increased power and grip will likely push drivers closer to the limits, demanding even greater precision and confidence behind the wheel.
Among the many anticipated improvements, acceleration stands out as a defining feature of the new generation. For Rowland, this is an area that sparks genuine excitement.
“I think the acceleration. I think when they speak like 0 to 200 in four seconds, I’ve never experienced that so it’s something I’m looking forward to.”
Such rapid acceleration will not only enhance the spectacle for fans but also challenge drivers to adapt their reflexes and race strategies. As a result, the driving experience itself may become more intense and physically demanding.
Rowland of what new drivers must master as Formula E continues to evolve
As Formula E grows in complexity, the demands placed on drivers continue to expand. With such vast experience behind him, Rowland has a strong understanding of what success in the series requires. When asked for his thoughts on the skills that new drivers need to have to succeed in the all-electric single-seater series, Rowland highlighted that success now depends on far more than raw speed alone.
“I think particularly at the moment, you need to be able to manage a lot of different things, especially during the race. So, to be quite switched on with all the systems, the software development, the new technology, let’s say.
“And then I would say another thing is race craft and positioning your car. We’ve seen the last two young guys coming in, Barnard and Martí, have done quite a good job at that. So I think that’s something that you need in your locker is to be able to race closer to the cars and do a good job.”
Therefore, modern Formula E drivers must combine technical awareness with sharp racecraft. Managing energy, software systems, and wheel-to-wheel combat simultaneously has become a defining skill set in the series.
Rowland on the hidden complexity of Formula E as he prepares for return to Berlin
While fans appreciate the close racing, Rowland suggests that the true complexity of Formula E often goes unnoticed. Initially, he reflected on the competitive nature of the sport.
“I don’t really know, I don’t know… I guess it’s just the wheel-to-wheel combat and the close competitive nature of it, I think is. Yeah, I’m not sure.”
However, he then expanded on the intricate technical side that drivers handle throughout a race.
“I don’t know. I mean, there’s some things like we have like 40 switches on the steering wheel that we can adjust and change corner by corner. And there’s so much new software and technology in the cars that’s really quite mind-blowing, actually. So it’s not really something that other people would realise.”
This level of complexity means drivers must constantly process information and make adjustments in real time. Consequently, Formula E demands both mental agility and technical understanding at the highest level.
Rowland reflects on a season of highs and lows ahead of 2026 Berlin E-Prix
When assessing his own performance, Rowland offered an honest and measured evaluation. Despite achieving podium finishes, inconsistency has limited his overall success.
“Average,” Rowland declared when asked to describe his series thus far. “I think, you know, look, I have three out of six podiums, but then I have no points in the other three races. So, a little bit up and down and not quite good enough, but maybe it’s a bit of a kick up the ass that we need.”
In response to these challenges, Rowland is focused on strengthening both internal relationships and personal performance. Team cohesion often plays a critical role in motorsport success. Improved communication and confidence can translate into better decision-making, sharper execution, and ultimately stronger results on track.
“Just relationships in the team, building a bit of confidence back and, you know, also myself, just trying to improve a little bit over one lap,” Rowland summarised when asked about the changes and improvements that he planned to make over the upcoming rounds.
Rowland aiming to return to winning ways
Finally, Rowland revealed a clear and powerful source of motivation: the desire to return to winning ways. Having missed out on the stop of the podium for almost a year now, the British driver hopes to end that streak in Berlin.
“Really, I think the fact that I’ve not won for a year is enough motivation to work hard and try to come back stronger, particularly this weekend.”
This determination underscores his mindset as he approaches the next race. Thus, Rowland enters the upcoming Formula E weekend in Berlin with a balanced perspective. He acknowledges the need for greater consistency while remaining optimistic about both immediate improvements and the sport’s future direction. With GEN4 developments on the horizon and a strong personal drive to succeed, Rowland continues to push forward. If he can align performance with consistency, he has every opportunity to transform a mixed season into a successful one.
