McLaren open to Formula E involvement!

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McLaren is investigating opportunities linked to an involvement with the burgeoning Formula E series, either as a team or as a supplier of powertrain technology.

The company's Applied Technology division is already contracted to supply the series control battery from the 2018/19 season.

Speaking to Autosport, McLaren boss Zak Brown said he was eager for the company to enjoy greater technology involvement "in some way, shape or form" in the FIA's all-electric International single-seater series.

"It's great that we're able to demonstrate that we're taking a leadership role and showing our competency there," Brown said.

"We are looking at ways to get more involved in Formula E.

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"Everything is on the table from starting a team, to buying a team, to working with a team to further developing other areas within Formula E that McLaren [could] apply technology.

"We can go beyond the battery technology."

Any endeavor by McLaren to supply powertrain technology to FE for 2018/18 would require a it to submit a registration by next month.

"Formula E is going places," he added.

"It has its place in motorsport and being the motor racing junkie I am, as long as it's commercially viable and on brand, the more range the better."

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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.