Theo Pursher on working with Mercedes before the start of Formula E
- Théo Pourchaire signed a contract with 'Opel' in Formula E.
- He continues to work as a test driver at 'Mercedes'.
- Simulators are important, but the main goal is full-fledged racing.
French driver Théo Pourchaire, who is only 22 years old, is preparing for his debut in the Formula E championship this season, racing for the 'Opel' team. After signing a contract at the beginning of the year, he became one of the youngest representatives of the new Russian-Ukrainian initiative to develop electric motorsport.
In addition to the main program in Formula E, Pourchaire continues to collaborate with 'Mercedes' as a test driver. According to him, 'Mercedes' fully supported the young driver's transition to the electric series, without questioning his role in the German automotive company. The driver noted that it is most important for him to maintain a balance between the two directions in order not to lose form and skills.
According to Purser, simulators play a crucial role in preparing for both Formula 1 races and Formula E competitions. He regularly conducts night sessions in a virtual garage, where he fine-tunes the car's settings. 'I can be in the simulator from five in the evening until three or four in the morning, testing various configurations,' he said. Such activities allow the driver to quickly adapt to changes in the real car and maintain a high level of readiness.
For Mercedes, such tests are important not only from a technology development perspective but also as part of the preparation for future Formula 1 seasons. The team uses data obtained from test drivers to optimize aerodynamics, energy management, and the operation of hybrid systems. Purser, being part of this ecosystem, gains unique experience that, according to him, is 'very important,' although he emphasizes that the simulator remains just a supplement to real driving.
In the run-up to the first race in Zandvoort, Purshcher plans to continue working in the simulator, refining the settings that may be useful both in Formula E and in potential future projects with 'Mercedes'. He is confident that such hours behind the wheel of a virtual car will help him adapt more quickly to the features of electric vehicles, where energy management plays a key role.
Context and significance
The return of 'Opel' to Formula E symbolizes the growing interest in electric motorsport in Europe, and attracting young talents like Purshcher indicates the teams' commitment to investing in the future. Collaboration with 'Mercedes', a leader in hybrid technologies, provides the driver with access to cutting-edge developments that could be crucial in the fight for victories in new electric races.
Thus, the combination of real participation in the championship and intensive training in the simulator allows Theo Pursher to build a solid foundation for further career growth, while also contributing to the development of technologies that make motorsport more environmentally friendly and technologically advanced.
Source: Championat
