Theo Pourchaire calls Opel’s GEN4 car a ‘game changer’

Théo Pourchaire says the new GEN4 car presents a steep learning curve as he prepares to join Opel GSE Formula E Team for the manufacturer’s championship entry. The Frenchman has already sampled the machinery and described it as a major change from what he has driven before.

Speaking at the unveiling of the Opel GSE 27FE at the Paris Motor Show, Pourchaire also praised the team’s livery. Its yellow accents appealed to him because the colour has been part of his helmet since the start of his career. He said he was proud to represent the German marque.

The announcement builds on Pourchaire’s move to Opel for the Formula E GEN4 era, giving the former Formula 2 champion a new challenge in the all-electric series.

GEN4 brings a different kind of challenge

Pourchaire said preparations have involved simulator work and regular discussions with engineers and mechanics as he gets accustomed to the cockpit. The car and its demands, he explained, will make the next championship phase feel new for the entire field.

His first impressions of the GEN4 machine were centred on its acceleration and cornering. He said it was the most rapidly accelerating race car he had experienced and felt quicker through corners than the GEN3. Testing has included both progress and setbacks, with the team continuing to work towards competitiveness.

The GEN4 car can deliver up to 600 kW in qualifying and ATTACK MODE, while race-mode output is described as 50 per cent higher than the GEN3 Evo. That performance increase is a substantial adjustment for a driver stepping into the series.

Previous Formula E running offers a starting point

Pourchaire is new to the Formula E grid, but he has tested its cars before. He completed three days in a GEN3 machine for Spark in 2022, then took part in rookie free practice with Maserati MSG Racing in Jeddah and Berlin. Citroën Racing selected him for sessions in Miami and Madrid in January 2026.

His Miami appearance was particularly encouraging: he finished second, 0.093 seconds from the fastest time. The experience adds to a career that includes the 2023 Formula 2 title, endurance-racing appearances and work as a development driver for Mercedes. His Mercedes development-driver role followed earlier reserve and test duties with Sauber/Stake and Alfa Romeo.

Now the emphasis shifts to translating that varied experience into Formula E. With Opel entering the championship and a new generation of car to learn, Pourchaire faces a demanding introduction—but arrives with prior running and a strong first impression of the machinery.