Two Formula E teams have called for strict cost controlling measures to be kept in place ahead of several large manufacturers joining the series.
Both Alex Tai of DS Virgin Racing and Vincent Gaillardot of Renault said that spending on Formula E should not be allowed to get out of control as it could harm the championship.
It comes ahead of several large manufacturers set to enter the series over the coming years, with BMW, Audi, Mercedes and Porsche set to join Renault, DS and Jaguar in having their own team.
There are fears amongst some that the large financial backings of these companies mean that costs could balloon as they fight for a competitive advantage.
There are currently rules in place meaning that teams must race the same chassis, with no aerodynamic development, in addition to all teams using the same batteries.
This according to Gaillardot is vital for protecting the series from what he describes as an ‘arms race’.
“The bigger costs that could come in the future is definitely a concern,” the Renault technical chief told Motorsport.com.
“We have to control the costs of any ‘arms race’ through the rules which are controlled by the FIA. We do not want to open the chassis, the aero, the battery.
“The championship is still young and we have to be careful we care for it as it is still a young child. We really have to take care and some of the new guys coming in have already stated they would like to see more freedoms.
“We have to be strong on these areas, otherwise it will hurt the rise of Formula E.”
DS Virgin team boss Tai agrees, saying that although it is undoubtedly good news that there is growing interest from manufacturers in Formula E, measures have to be kept to ensure a level playing field.
Speaking to Motorsport.com Tai said, “Formula E has probably got the brightest future because these are the cars we are going to be driving in the future, so the fact we have the interest of Mercedes and others that are coming in is just an endorsement to that fact.
“It will drive more interest for all our partners to drive innovation harder. We relish the challenge.
“It is up to the stakeholders to battle against [increases in costs]. We have to keep an even playing field, so the principles of keeping Formula E exciting and keeping the growth going are kept to.”
