Nissan Formula E Team has retained Sam Bird as its reserve and development driver and Abbi Pulling as its rookie and simulator driver for the 2026/27 season.
Having joined the team in 2025, Bird and Pulling’s knowledge of Nissan’s powertrain will prove valuable as the all-electric championship enters the new GEN4 era. The British duo will continue working alongside race drivers Oliver Rowland and Zane Maloney as Nissan looks to make a strong start to Season 13.
Bird embraces Nissan’s GEN4 challenge
Bird brings extensive experience to his role, having competed in Formula E since its inaugural race in 2014. With 27 podiums, including 12 victories, he is among the few drivers to have won races across all three generations of cars. After being unable to secure a full-time seat for Season 12, Bird stayed in the paddock by joining Nissan as its reserve and development driver in November 2025.
“Since joining the team I’ve really enjoyed my time here and been welcomed with open arms,” he shared. “We’ve completed plenty of positive work in the simulator and during testing as we prepare for the GEN4 era. With a new car for Season 13, we’ve spent a lot of time setting the simulator up to ensure we can give Oliver and Zane the most accurate representation of the new features.”
“As the weeks go by, we’re developing a stronger understanding of the GEN4 machine and I’m pleased to be contributing to that. My aim for the upcoming season is to continue helping the team to the best of my ability, working with the engineering and strategy sides as well as the drivers so we can maximize our performance.”
Pulling: “I’m delighted to continue in my role”
Pulling, on the other hand, made her Formula E debut with the team at the 2024 inaugural all-women’s test, where she impressed by topping the timesheets. She went on to take part in several rookie sessions and tests before officially joining Nissan as its rookie and simulator driver in June 2025. Alongside her Formula E role, Pulling is competing in the 2026 GB3 Championship, where she has already claimed a victory and two further podium finishes.
Speaking about the upcoming season, Pulling reflected on her time with Nissan and shared her excitement about the GEN4 era.
“I’ve really enjoyed being with Nissan Formula E Team and I’m delighted to continue in my role as we move into the GEN4 era. I’ve loved my work in the simulator and of course the sessions out on track, which have been the highlight of my time with the team.”
She continued: “I’m looking forward to exploring what the GEN4 car has to offer, starting in the simulator and then hopefully on race weekends. The new car will be a challenge for everyone, but it looks very exciting and appealing to drivers. A big thank you to the team for the support they’ve given me so far, and I can’t wait to continue into Season 13!”
Volpe highlights value of continuity
With Bird and Pulling completing Nissan’s 2026/27 driver roster, managing director and team principal Tommaso Volpe shared:
“We’re very happy to continue working with Sam and Abbi for Season 13. As we enter the GEN4 era, having drivers who know our simulator, our powertrain and the way we work will be important in helping us prepare effectively for this new generation.”
“Sam brings a wealth of Formula E experience and has been a great team player since joining us last year. He’s proactive and always looking for ways to help the team improve. Abbi has become increasingly comfortable in the Formula E environment and is already adding real value. She’ll have the opportunity to take part in test days and continue supporting us both before and during race weekends. Together with Oliver and Zane, we believe we have a strong driver roster to help us make a positive start to the GEN4 era,” he concluded.
