beijing

The location and circuit layout of the inaugural race of the Formula E Championship, which will be held in Beijing, has been revealed - the Beijing Formula E Grand Prix on September 13, 2014, will take place around the grounds of China's iconic Olympic Stadium, more commonly known as the 'Bird's Nest' and venue for the 2008 Olympic Games.

The course is 3.44 km in length and features 20 turns - the anti-clockwise temporary circuit has been designed by Rodrigo Nunes, working in close cooperation with the FIA, Formula E, the Republic of China Motor Sport Federation (FASC), the Olympic Park Committee, the Beijing Mayor, the Chinese Government and event organiser Team China Racing.

The circuit, which remains subject to final FIA homologation, will see the 20 Formula E drivers tackle a mix of tight left-hand turns - offering late braking and overtaking opportunities - together with twisty chicanes and two main straights.

formula e bejiing circuit

In addition, the track features a unique 'U-shaped' pit lane, with spectator areas located inside, giving fans an incredible close-up view of the action.

Beijing will be the first of 10 city-centre races on the inaugural 2014/2015 Formula E calendar. Ten teams, each with two drivers, will go head-to-head in the Spark-Renault SRT_01E full-electric single-seater race car, which is capable of speeds in excess of 225 km/h.

Putrajaya is set to host the second round of the Formula E season on October 18, after the opening race in Beijing. Formula E races will be held over a single day in order to minimise disruption to each host city with a free practice session, qualifying and 60-minute race, followed by a live music concert, taking place on a Saturday.