Get ready for a thrilling new chapter in the world of Formula E! Nissan Formula E Team has just announced a game-changing addition to their lineup, and it’s none other than the legendary Sam Bird as their reserve and development driver for the 2025/26 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. But here’s where it gets exciting: Bird isn’t just any driver—he’s a Formula E veteran with a track record that speaks for itself. Since the championship’s debut in 2014, he’s been a dominant force, securing wins across all three generations of cars and racking up an impressive 12 victories, placing him fourth in the series’ all-time win list. His most recent triumph? A stunning win in São Paulo during Season 10 (2023/24) with the Nissan e-4ORCE 04 for NEOM McLaren Formula E Team, then a Nissan customer team.
Bird’s deep understanding of Nissan’s powertrain will be a major asset as he joins forces with Oliver Rowland, Norman Nato, and Abbi Pulling to propel the team forward in Season 12. But here’s the part most people miss: he’ll also play a pivotal role in developing the GEN4 machinery, ensuring Nissan continues its upward trajectory after a successful Season 11. And this is where it gets controversial—can Bird’s experience truly bridge the gap between the current GEN3 Evo and the future GEN4 car? Only time will tell.
Tommaso Volpe, Nissan Formula E Team’s managing director and team principal, couldn’t be more thrilled: ‘Sam’s experience and success in the championship make him an undeniable fit for our team. His familiarity with our powertrain and his ability to provide instant feedback will be invaluable as we aim to stay at the top.’
Bird himself is equally excited: ‘Joining Nissan Formula E Team feels like a natural next step. Having worked closely with Nissan over the past two seasons, I’m confident in my ability to contribute both on and off the track. I’ve got immense respect for Oli and Norman, and I’m eager to support them in any way I can. My goal? To help the team build on their recent success and prepare for the GEN4 era.’
But here’s the burning question: With Bird’s addition, is Nissan poised to dominate the upcoming season, or will the competition rise to the challenge? Let’s dive deeper into Nissan’s Formula E journey.
Nissan made history in Season 5 (2018/19) as the first and only Japanese manufacturer to enter the all-electric racing series. Fast forward to Season 7 (2020/21), and they solidified their commitment to the GEN3 era, which runs through Season 12 (2025/26). In April 2022, Nissan took full ownership of the e.dams race team, doubling down on their Formula E ambitions. And in a bold move ahead of the inaugural Tokyo E-Prix in March 2024, they became the first manufacturer to commit to the GEN4 era, extending their involvement until 2030—a testament to their Ambition 2030 electrification goals.
Season 11 (2024/25) was a landmark year for Nissan, with Oliver Rowland clinching the Drivers’ World Championship after a stellar performance. Now, with Bird on board, the team is gearing up for Season 12, aiming to maintain their winning streak.
Nissan’s involvement in Formula E isn’t just about racing—it’s about showcasing the potential of zero-emission electric vehicles on a global stage. By 2050, Nissan aims to achieve carbon neutrality across its operations and product lifecycle, with plans to electrify all new vehicles in key markets by the early 2030s. Formula E serves as the perfect testing ground for innovations that will eventually make their way into customer vehicles.
But here’s the controversial angle: As Formula E continues to grow, will it remain a pure testing ground for electric technology, or will it evolve into a platform for manufacturers to flex their marketing muscle? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more insights, check out the Nissan Formula E Press Kit at Global.NissanNews.com/FormulaEPressKit and stay tuned to the Nissan Global Newsroom at Nissan Global Newsroom for the latest updates.
For media inquiries, contact Maria De Juana, Head of Communications, Formula E, Nissan Motor Co., at +33-6 17 36 37 61 or mdejuana@nissan-europe.com.
The future of racing is electric, and Nissan is leading the charge. Are you ready to join the ride?
