Article by Katy Fairman

Kush Maini is no stranger to Formula E, having been a part of the Mahindra Racing family since 2013. He participated in the Berlin Rookie Test last year, and ran as theteam’s official Reserve Driver in Season 10. 

Maini, a protégé of two-time Formula 1 champion Mika Hakkinen, has also impressed in FIA Formula 2, claiming a victory plus four further podiums during his sophomore season, and will return again to the category for a title tilt in 2025.

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This experience in Jeddah was Maini’s first experience of the new GEN3 Evo car, a major milestone in electric racing technology, blending performance, sustainability, and efficiency.

This groundbreaking machine, capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in just 1.82 seconds, is not only the quickest-accelerating FIA single-seater but also outpaces current F1 cars by 30% in acceleration, reflecting Formula E’s ongoing commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.

“At 350 kWh, you can’t compare it to last season,” Maini said about the new race car, which uses all-wheel drive and the extra power when activating ATTACK MODE. 

MEET THE GEN3 EVO: What is Formula E's latest race car

“The improvements we’ve made are just amazing, it was so fun to drive. I just really enjoyed myself and pushing the limits. It’s always a pleasure to jump in a Formula E car, but with the upgrades compared to last year it’s just another level.”

Joining Maini in the test were individuals like 2023 Formula 2 Champion Théo Pourchaire, three-time W Series Champion Jamie Chadwick and former Formula 1 driver Daniil Kvyat. 

FEATURE: The rookies taking part in Formula E's Jeddah Rookie Free Practice

“It’s just amazing, especially when you’re going from the 300 kWh where you’re having a few issues on the exit then up to 350 kWh and the car doesn’t move on exit and you can really find the limit. 

“You have so much confidence so close to the walls, it’s just a great experience.”

The 24-year-old Bangalore is certainly proud of his association with the Indian team, calling his time withMahindra “a thing of pride”. 

“It’s massive for me, especially this year as there’s a lot going on in my career as well. But any chance I get to jump in a Formula E car I take it, especially with Mahindra. Everytime they call me I will happily come back and drive with a smile on my face.”

SCHEDULE: Where, when and how to watch or stream the 2025 Jeddah E-Prix Rounds 3 and 4

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has been a part of the Formula E calendar since Season 5, but for the first time we’re heading to Jeddah. Host to the fist double-header of the GEN3 Evo era, the grid will be racing under the floodlights on Friday 14 and Saturday 15 February 2025. 

Rookie Free Practice: Thursday 13 February, 18:00 local/15:00 UTC
Free Practice 1: Thursday 13 February, 21:00 local/18:00 UTC

Free Practice 2: Friday 14 February, 13:00 local/10:00 UTC
Qualifying: Friday 14 February, 15:20 local/12:20 UTC
Race: Friday 14 February, 20:05 local/17:05 UTC 

Free Practice 3: Saturday 15 February, 13:00 local/10:00 UTC
Qualifying: Saturday 15 February, 15:20 local/12:00 UTC
Race: Saturday 15 February, 20:05 local/17:05 UTC 

View the full schedule in your time zone and check the broadcaster listings or tap the Ways to Watch button above to find out where to watch all the racing action where you live.

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Additionally, Formula E’s social media channels, website, and app will provide session reports, exclusive interviews, and behind-the-scenes insights from trackside during the four-day event.

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