Race and classic pictures

Formula E's class of 2022 is ready to power up!

Formula E will kick off its eighth season this evening in Saudi Arabia, with the all-electric series competitors lining up on the streets of Diriyah for a double-header event.

Eleven teams and 22 drivers will battle for the world FE title over a 16-round global schedule that will conclude next summer in Seoul.

Reigning FE World Champions Mercedes and Nyck de Vries will be looking to double down on their 2021 achievement, but the Dutchman's teammate, former F1 driver Stoffel Vandoorne, is also determined to turn around his fortunes after a very unlucky campaign last year.

But the competition promises to be fierce and tight up and down a field that will feature no less than seven former F1 drivers, including FE rookie Antonio Giovinazzi, and FE debutants Oliver Askew and Dan Ticktum.

To get up to speed on everything that's new for Season 8, check out the video released by Formula E which also includes a preview of this weekend's action.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.