Formula E: ABB’s New Converter Tech Powering the GENBETA

ABB unveiled its latest DC-DC converter technology in the GENBETA prototype car, as the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship returned to Tempelhof Circuit in Berlin.

The GENBETA is a high performance modified version of the Formula E's GEN3 racecar, developed to push EV performance to its limit.

The GENBETA is well known for winning the Guinness World Record for fastest indoor land speed​​​​​ in 2023.

ABB's converter technology

ABB's latest DC-DC converter technology is from its Brightloop product lineup. ABB's DC-DC converter allows the main battery to simultaneously run a car's onboard electronics at different voltages.

ABB used Formula E as a platform to unveil the technology, which allows GENBETA's high-voltage 800Vdc battery to enable 0 to 100km per hour performance in just 1.86 seconds.

Simultaneously, the converter powers 12 or 24Vdc systems, including control electronics, communications and displays.

Fabiana Cavalcante, Global Head of Mobile e-Power at ABB, says: “ABB’s DC-DC technology is yet another example of our commitment to support Formula E in its quest to lead sustainable motorsport globally. ​​​​​​​

“Not only as principal partner to the Championship, but also through technical innovations that power the series, ensuring it remains Engineered to Outrun, creating solutions that translate from the track to real-world applications.”

In a press release ABB says that the development of these power electronics underlines their role as a key differentiator in energy management and system optimisation across various vehicle architectures.​​​​​​​

What is GENBETA?

GENBETA is a modified version of Formula E's Gen 3 racecar. In 2023, the GENBETA broke the indoor land speed world record by more than 50km per hour, reaching a top speed of 218.71km per hour (135.9mph) inside a building in London. 

The official Guinness World Record title was achieved by driver Jake Hughes of the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team.

Dan Cherowbrier, Chief Technology Officer at Formula E, says: “The introduction of ABB's DC-DC converter technology into the GENBETA car is a significant technical milestone for the Championship. 

“This innovation allows us to optimise the car's power management by simultaneously running high-voltage powertrains and sensitive onboard electronics at different voltages, directly supporting our 'race to road' philosophy. It demonstrates how Formula E continues to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology in a high-performance environment.”

ABB is using GENBETA as a “high-speed living laboratory”

In a press release, ABB says uses Formula E as a platform and the GENBETA car as a “high-speed living laboratory” to connect its engineering expertise with high-performance environments.

Within this testing ground, ABB says it helps drive progress by refining the “Engineered to Outrun” technologies, such as advanced energy systems and power electronics, that the company says will eventually define more efficient, productive and sustainable future urban mobility both on and off the track.

This latest news comes as Formula E's Season 12 continues, with rounds nine and ten in Monaco on the 16th and 17th of May 2026.