First impressions: a car requiring new reference points
Zane Maloney places adaptability at the centre of preparations for his 2026/27 Formula E season with Nissan. In the championship’s November 2 interview, the Barbadian describes GEN4 as a substantial step, with permanent all-wheel drive, an active differential and increased downforce. His first impressions are positive, although he stresses that everyone will be learning at the beginning of the new era.
What the 600 kW figure means
Formula E’s official introduction specifies 600 kW in ATTACK MODE for GEN4. That figure describes the particular operating mode and should not become a claim that maximum power is available continuously. Collective pre-season testing is scheduled at Circuito de Madrid Jarama–RACE on November 16–20, 2026. It provides the next shared reference point for teams preparing their cars before the season begins.
How Nissan’s support programme is organised
Maloney will race alongside Oliver Rowland. Nissan has retained Sam Bird as Reserve and Development Driver and Abbi Pulling as Rookie and Simulator Driver. In the October 29 announcement, Bird discusses configuring the simulator around the new car. Pulling continues her simulator contribution and preparation for track opportunities. Their roles support the race drivers’ programme; they do not represent two additional places on the racing grid. Understanding those distinctions gives a clearer picture of the work behind the two-car entry.
What would make a convincing test
APEX analysis: interest at Jarama extends beyond the fastest lap. With a new generation, uninterrupted mileage, repeatability and explanations of simulator correlation can reveal more about preparation. Maloney’s comments identify what a driver is trying to understand without establishing a championship hierarchy. A robust comparison will need context about the test programmes and, later, actual races. For now, Nissan’s working structure and the test dates are confirmed. Predicting a competitive advantage for the team would go beyond the evidence currently available, however encouraging a driver’s early impressions may sound.
