Villeneuve says F1 paddock still dismissive of Formula E

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Formula E is undoubtedly gaining momentum but as far as Jacques Villeneuve is concerned, the burgeoning electric racing series is nothing to get excited about.

Formula E kicked off its fifth season last weekend at Ad Diriyah in Saudi Arabia, the series showcasing its innovative Gen2 futuristic car and new battery technology that now enables drivers to race a full distance without having to resort to a mid-race car swap.

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The initial round produced some good scraps up and down the field, but Villeneuve, who ran in a couple of FE races in the past with Venturi, remains unimpressed.

"Nobody wants to see electric racing," the 1997 F1 world champion told Automobile Magazine.

"The truth is, in the F1 paddock, nobody even knows when the Formula E races are on."

Despite the Canadian's lack of enthusiasm, many manufacturers such as BMW, Audi, Mercedes or Nissan, have embraced the series, and Porsche will also join the field for season 6, a clear validation of Formula E's novel concept.

"I don't understand why they are pushing it so much," Villeneuve added.

"I think it's a niche thing. The die-hard fans are the only ones who really keep up with it.

"I did a couple of races in Formula E, and I was happy to do them because the technology was interesting.

"You have power, you step on the gas - well, I probably shouldn't say gas - you step on the pedal, and you go somewhere. But ultimately -- I don't know," he added.

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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.