Jose Maria Lopez, a racing driver who has dominated the World Touring Car Championship in recent times, took part in DS Virgin Racing’s street demo in the run up to the race this weekend and also met with the media to share his enthusiasm for the electric racing series.
In an interview posted on the FIA website, Lopez said, “It would be fantastic for me to be part of this fantastic series, with this fantastic bunch of drivers,” but he has a problem with leaving WTCC currently.
“Today I have compromises with the brand with Citroen and also with the series I’m involved in – WTCC. We are developing the car, so the timing is not possible, but it would be fantastic because it’s a series which is growing up really quick and it’s very interesting for the drivers.”
But he also went on to speak about how fantastic it would be to have an Argentinian driver on the grid, and how it could be possible in 2017 to drive in Formula E.
“The fact that we have a race in Argentina, it would be fantastic to have as well an Argentinian driver. We will see. Today, everything is guessing because nothing is concrete and we talk about why not in 2017? It could be a good option.”
Part of Formula E’s appeal as a racing series for Lopez is how the technology is advancing quickly including on the streets, and he also spoke about doing a test with the team so if he has the chance in the future he knows the sort of car he would be dealing with.
“After being in different series, [Formula E is] different, of course. It’s a thing in the world that is coming – electric cars are already running the streets. The fact you have a clean energy car is fantastic. Of course, the first thing you notice – I did a small test with a team because there was no driver available and I was lucky enough to be there that day so I jumped in the car a few laps – the first thing is you don’t have the noise of an engine.
Since this interview, rumours have swelled around about Jose taking Jean-Eric Vergne’s seat today, as the Frenchman has food poisoning and won’t be able to race.
