Formula E ambitions for Hong Kong’s Darryl O’Young after his trial run on Central Harbourfront
The local Asia GT series driver reached 160km/h on a special edition Detroit Electric SP-01 during eight laps around the circuit
Hong Kong’s top driver Darryl O’Young has had a taste of electric racing and now wants more, saying he would be keen to join the Formula E ranks.
The 36-year-old gave a special edition of the Detroit Electric SP-01 an eight-lap trial run around the 1.8km course at the Central Harbourfront on Saturday, reaching a highest speed of 160km/h.
“It is great having the opportunity to drive in this brand new circuit, especially because this is in Hong Kong. The feeling is very special,” said the 36-year-old professional driver.
He posted on his Facebook page: “Usually it takes me hours or days to get to a track from home. Today it took 10 minutes by taxi.”
He added: “I know Hong Kong will run the Formula-E for two more seasons under the current agreement and may have more to come in future.
“Of course I would be very happy to be part of it as electric-powered cars are becoming more popular and Formula E is certainly playing an important role in the world of motor racing.”
But O’Young, who is currently racing in the Asia GT Series, said the competition for places in the Formula E series is tough.
“The current season features only 20 drivers from 10 teams. There needs to be support from commercial sponsors and car manufacturers before you can get in. Hopefully I can sort this out sooner rather than later,” he said.
O’Young, who will be competing in the last race of the Asia GT series later this month before racing in the Macau Grand Prix in November, offered his insight into the Hong Kong circuit.
“The surface is a bit slippery but this is normal for the beginning of a street circuit and it will be getting better when the Formula race is on,” he said.
“Drivers will have the best overtaking opportunities in the first and second turns but the second turn is also the most dangerous as it comes after a 500-metre straight when the cars are running at their speed of over 200km/h.”
