Formula E teams complete shakedown

Formula E teams completed the first shakedown of their new cars at the series' Donington Park base on Wednesday.

Karun Chandhok, Bruno Senna, Franck Montagny, Jaime Alguersuari, Sam Bird, Lucas di Grassi and Daniel Abt, the seven drivers who have already secured seats for the inaugural FE season, all took part, along with several other racers being evaluated. They included ex-Formula 1 driver Nick Heidfeld, who drove for the Venturi team that actor Leonardo DiCaprio is a partner in. A leading French team is in line to run the Venturi FE operation, and Heidfeld is likely to race the car.

The shakedown session took place in wet conditions on a modified version of Donington's National circuit, including an additional temporary chicane on the main straight, with teams focusing on systems checks over a full day of running. Andretti Autosport team manager Rob Arnott said the day had gone smoothly for his squad.

"The car has run exceptionally well for us, almost like clockwork," he said. "We've had virtually no issues which say a lot for a car straight out of the box and Franck has been really surprised with the car and its balance, especially in the wet.

"I was concerned the [all-weather] tires wouldn't be able to cope being a 'one-stop-shop,' so to speak, but they are very impressive and a good compound. Tomorrow we'll debrief and analyze the data but it's apparent battery management is going to be key."

Senna and Chandhok's Mahindra team is being run by veteran British open-wheel entrant Carlin.

Team principal Dilbagh Gill said: "We've had a few teething issues today but overall it's been very positive. The drivers have enjoyed it and Bruno had a big smile on his face the first time he got out of the car."

Formula E holds its first full test, which will be open to the public, at Donington on July 3. Teams will take delivery of their second cars later this month.