Piquet Jr. joins Jaguar for 2017/18 FE season

Nelson Piquet Jr. will partner Mitch Evans at Jaguar for the 2017/18 Formula E season, replacing Adam Carroll.

Piquet, the inaugural series champion, moves across from the NextEV/NIO team following a year in which Jaguar finished last in the teams' standings, although team director James Barclay predicts a significant step forward with its new I-Type 2.

"Last year was about gaining experience of a unique formula," Barclay said. "We turned the focus early to developing our season four car, with a huge focus to deliver on the lessons we learned. Everything we could change on the car we've changed. It's got an all-new powetrain, and we focused on reducing weight and efficiency, as well as lowering the centre of gravity.

"The driver line-up was also a key area of focus and we have a line-up of two competitive drivers that can help us take the next step as a team."

Piquet said that he was attracted to the team by the prospect of being able to work with a major manufacturer.

"Jaguar has such a strong history in motorsport and it's an exciting time to become part of the team," Piquet said.

"Their commitment to electric motorsport is inspiring, and I'm looking forward to working with the team. It's every driver's dream to work with such an amazing manufacturer. I thought this was the best opportunity for me to shine again. I know it's going to be a challenge, and Jaguar has some catching up to do, but I'm here to help the team."

Ho-Pin Tung will remain on board as the team's reserve driver.