Nico Müller and Nyck de Vries are going to drive the Audi e-tron FE04 for the first time in the Formula E first rookie test. The test day is scheduled for January 14, 2018, one day after the next Formula E race in Marrakesh. With the rookie test Formula E and the FIA are giving the registered teams an opportunity to familiarize young drivers with the electric racing series.
The rules are strict, permitting only drivers without an E-license to test. They have never contested a Formula E race before. Participating for Audi will be DTM campaigner Nico Müller (25, Switzerland) and Nyck de Vries (22, Netherlands). “This mid-season test is a unique opportunity. Nico and Nyck are going to drive our e-tron FE04 for a number of test kilometres which will give them a good initial impression of the car and the things that are special in Formula E,” says Allan McNish, Team Principal of Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler. “Nico already belongs to the Audi family and we’ve been closely watching Nyck’s career in recent years. Both have their roots in single-seater racing and will no doubt manage well.”
Nico Müller and Nyck de Vries are going to drive the Audi e-tron FE04 for the first time in the Formula E first rookie test
For Nico Müller, who competes in the DTM in Audi Sport Team Abt Sportsline, the test makes a dream come true. “I’ve been watching Formula E as a fan for quite some time but, unfortunately, only on television,” says the Swiss. When I visit ABT Sportsline the Formula E race car is often parked alongside my DTM car. That’s when I fancy driving it, so I’m all the more excited about this opportunity.”
Müller contested his last single-seater race in Formula Renault 3.5 in 2013. Since then he has been active in touring and sports car racing.
To Nyck de Vries the test might come more naturally. The youngster has spent his entire career to date in kart and single-seater racing. Most recently he competed in Formula 2 as part of the Formula 1 supporting program. The rookie test will be on Sunday, January 14, 2018, at Circuit International Automobile Moulay el Hassan in Marrakesh. Reigning champion Lucas di Grassi will be on hand as an instructor and provide the two newcomers with valuable advice.
We’re looking forward to seeing @nico_mueller and @nyckdevries in the Audi e-tron FE04 during the @FIAFormulaE‘s first rookie test on 14 January, one day after the E-Prix in Marrakesh. #FormulaE #etron #ProgressFeelsElectric #LeagueofPerformance pic.twitter.com/jNBiihHjU5
— Audi Formula E (@audiformulae) December 12, 2017
