Everybody in the motor industry knows that the future of driving is not petrol-based. But envisioning exactly how new technologies will pan out is not easy. There are however some strong signals that electric is being seriously embraced, not least from the world of motorsport, which will see the first electric car racing championships in 2014.

The FIA Formula E series will take place in numerous global cities, as yet mostly unconfirmed. However, Rome is the first European city to commit as a venue, following Rio de Janeiro, which was the first city in the world to commit.

With that powerhouse of motorsport McLaren having confirmed itself as powertrain builder for the new racers, in a consortium with SRT, it is clear that electric is entering the big league. No longer a car type known for pootling along at slow speeds and with limited range, electric cars are getting faster and more energy efficient by the year. Drivers are now as likely to call their annual breakdown cover provider for their electric car as for their petrol car.

Organiser Formula E Holdings (FEH) has signed a deal with the FIA to promote electric energy racing, and has ordered 42 cars from SRT. As long as there are no serious pile-ups early on in the season, the planned 10 teams and 20 drivers will comprise one of the most exciting developments in motorsport for many years.