Paralyzed driver Robert Wickens tests Formula E car with hand controls

2024-07-03
Paralyzed driver Robert Wickens tests Formula E car with hand controls

Wickens' Triumphant Return: Conquering the Electric Frontier

Robert Wickens, the former IndyCar rising star, has defied the odds and made a remarkable comeback to the world of single-seater racing. After a life-altering crash in 2018 left him paralyzed from the waist down, Wickens has been on a relentless journey to reclaim his rightful place behind the wheel. This past weekend, he took a significant step forward, testing a Formula E car with hand controls at the Portland International Raceway, showcasing his unwavering determination and adaptability.

Powering Through Adversity: Wickens' Resilience Shines Bright

Embracing the Electric Challenge

The Formula E GenBeta car, a test bed for the all-electric racing series, presented Wickens with a unique challenge. Weighing nearly 900 lbs less than his Hyundai Elantra N TCR car and boasting significantly more power and immediate electric torque, the GenBeta was a vastly different beast from the IndyCars he had previously mastered. Wickens, ever the adaptable racer, embraced the opportunity, eager to push the boundaries of what was possible.

Mastering the Hand Control Conundrum

Navigating the intricacies of hand controls in a single-seater racing car is no easy feat. Wickens, drawing on his conversations with fellow adaptive racer Alex Zanardi, recognized the importance of having the brake integrated into the steering wheel for optimal performance. The brake-by-wire system of the Formula E car provided a more straightforward solution, allowing Wickens to reprogram the regen paddles to control the throttle and brake.

Proving His Mettle on the Track

Despite the limited test time, Wickens completed 11 laps on the Portland circuit, showcasing his adaptability and skill. While he acknowledged the need for further refinement of the hand control setup, the experience left him eager for more, fueling his ambition to secure a coveted rookie test in Formula E. Wickens' positive outlook and determination to continue pushing the boundaries of what's possible in adaptive racing are a testament to his unwavering spirit.

Charting a Path to the Formula E Grid

Wickens' foray into Formula E is not a mere whim; it's a strategic move driven by the unique opportunities the all-electric series presents. The digital control inputs for throttle and brake, coupled with the relatively lower budgets compared to other top-level racing series, make Formula E an attractive proposition for the Canadian driver. Wickens has been actively pursuing a rookie test in the series for years, and this latest test represents a significant step towards realizing that goal.

Inspiring a New Generation of Adaptive Racers

Wickens' journey is not just about his own personal triumph; it's about paving the way for a future where adaptive racing is the norm, not the exception. His resilience, adaptability, and unwavering determination serve as a powerful inspiration to aspiring drivers with disabilities, demonstrating that the path to the top echelons of motorsport is not limited by physical challenges. Wickens' success in the Formula E test is a testament to the progress being made in adaptive racing, and a harbinger of the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

Article "tagged" as:

Related Article

195 Cute Cat Names

195 Cute Cat Names

If you've welcomed a new cat into your home and they need a name, try giving them one of these cute names, including cute names for girl cats, boy cats, orange cats, gray cats, and more.
Luxating Patella in Cats

Luxating Patella in Cats

Luxating patella is an orthopedic condition that affects cats' knees. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.
Salivary Mucocele in Dogs

Salivary Mucocele in Dogs

A salivary mucocele, also called a sialocele, causes swelling near a dog's salivary glands and may cause a lump under the chin or on the neck near the jaw. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention of salivary mucoceles in dogs.
Folliculitis in Dogs

Folliculitis in Dogs

Folliculitis is a common skin condition in dogs. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.
Is Baking Soda Bad for Cats?

Is Baking Soda Bad for Cats?

Baking soda has many common household uses and may help with cat odors, but how much is safe to use around cats?
Can Dogs Eat Parmesan Cheese?

Can Dogs Eat Parmesan Cheese?

It's no secret that dogs love cheese, but what kinds of cheese should you avoid? Is Parmesan cheese a good option to treat your pup to?
Can Dogs Eat Pistachios?

Can Dogs Eat Pistachios?

Dogs can eat pistachios, but only if they're plain and served in moderation. In other cases, pistachios can be harmful for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese?

Can Dogs Eat Cheese?

A popular training tool, cheese is OK for most dogs to enjoy on special occasions...but there are some exceptions.
Snowshoe Cat: Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care

Snowshoe Cat: Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care

The snowshoe cat, a mix of the American shorthair and Siamese, is a smart and affectionate pet that loves company. Learn about the snowshoe cat breed, including temperament, appearance, and care needs.
Bearded Collie: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Bearded Collie: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

Learn about bearded collies, energetic and intelligent dogs known for their herding skills and bearded faces that earned the nickname "beardies."
How to Plant a Border Garden that Will Add Color to Your Landscape

How to Plant a Border Garden that Will Add Color to Your Landscape

Learn how to create a vibrant border garden that will compliment your landscape and provide visual appeal of completeness.
Are Petunias Perennials or Annuals? Plus Tips for Getting Tons of Flowers

Are Petunias Perennials or Annuals? Plus Tips for Getting Tons of Flowers

Are petunias perennials that come back each year? The answer is yes and no, depending on your climate. Find out how to grow petunias as annuals or perennials.
How to Plant and Grow Golden Bamboo

How to Plant and Grow Golden Bamboo

Learn how to grow golden bamboo, a perennial often used for outdoor privacy. Unfortunately, it can be invasive, so be careful where you plant it.
How to Plant and Grow Camellia

How to Plant and Grow Camellia

Learn to plant and grow camellia, the Southern belles of the plant world. These evergreen shrubs bear beautiful blooms during the colder months.
This Daylily-Filled Garden Plan Lets You Flaunt Your Favorites

This Daylily-Filled Garden Plan Lets You Flaunt Your Favorites

Combine daylily varieties of your choice with other reliable plants for tons of carefree color.
29 Flower Pot Ideas for Stunning Mixes of Blooms and Foliage

29 Flower Pot Ideas for Stunning Mixes of Blooms and Foliage

Use these flower pot ideas for beautiful combinations to brighten up your porch, patio, or other spots that need a boost of color.
Which Types of Garlic Are Best to Grow in Your Garden?

Which Types of Garlic Are Best to Grow in Your Garden?

Hardneck or softneck? Here’s what to know about different types of garlic and how to grow them.
When Is the Best Time to Mow Your Lawn?

When Is the Best Time to Mow Your Lawn?

Take the guesswork out of deciding when to mow your lawn with our easy-to-follow tips.
How to Start a Garden: 10 Easy Steps for Beginners

How to Start a Garden: 10 Easy Steps for Beginners

This step-by-step guide explains how to start a garden for beginners. It covers all the basics you need to know, including what to plant, prepping soil, and care tips.
How to Get Rid of Pokeweed in Your Yard

How to Get Rid of Pokeweed in Your Yard

Although this plant is native to parts of North America, pokeweed is still an aggressive, toxic plant you may not want around. Use these tips to safely eliminate pokeweed from your garden.