Robert Shwartzman Joins Lola Formula E for GEN4 Era Debut
Robert Shwartzman is set to make his full-time debut in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship after being confirmed as the first driver in Lola Formula E’s line-up for the upcoming GEN4 era.
The 26-year-old will join the British manufacturer for the 2027 season, taking on a dual programme that will also see him compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship. The announcement marks an exciting new chapter for Shwartzman, who is returning to full-time competition after sitting out the 2026 racing season.
“I’m very excited to join the Formula E grid and start this new chapter of my career with Lola,” said Shwartzman. “Formula E is such a competitive, unique championship and one I’ve wanted to race in for a long time.”
Shwartzman arrives at Lola with considerable experience across several major motorsport categories. Having previously competed in FIA Formula 3 and Formula 2, he has also been involved in Formula 1, the FIA World Endurance Championship and IndyCar. His varied racing background is expected to prove valuable as he prepares for the challenge of adapting to Formula E’s latest generation of machinery.
Although he will be a rookie when he joins the championship’s competitive grid, Shwartzman is already familiar with the Lola project. He has played an active role in the development of the Lola T004, working closely with the team and technical partner Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., as they prepare for the introduction of GEN4 machinery.
Yamaha is collaborating with Lola Cars on the development of the new powertrain, bringing its engineering expertise to the project as Formula E prepares to enter a significant new chapter in its evolution.
For Shwartzman, the opportunity to compete in two world-class championships is particularly appealing after a year away from racing.
“Balancing my commitments between WEC and Formula E is going to make for a demanding, non-stop season but honestly, after not racing in 2026, I missed it so much,” he added.
“Being back to doing what I love most, especially with a double campaign across two world class programmes is an incredible feeling. I’m really grateful to everyone who worked behind the scenes to give me this opportunity.”
Shwartzman Excited by GEN4 Challenge
The arrival of GEN4 machinery represents a major milestone for Formula E, with increased performance and new technical developments expected to take the championship in a fresh direction.
Having already gained experience behind the wheel during the development process, Shwartzman is enthusiastic about what the next generation of electric single-seaters has to offer.
“What makes joining this project so special is working with a legendary name like Lola as we enter the GEN4 era,” he explained.
“The GEN4 car is an absolute beast and so much fun to drive, I really can’t wait to start the season and push it to the limit on what looks like a fantastic calendar.”
His involvement in the development programme could also provide an important advantage as he prepares to take on established Formula E competitors. However, the transition from testing to the intensity of championship racing will present a significant challenge.
Lola Formula E Team Principal Mark Preston believes Shwartzman’s experience across different racing disciplines makes him an exciting addition to the team’s plans.
“Robert’s results and experience speak for themselves, and we are so pleased to be welcoming him to Lola Formula E,” said Preston.
“While he enters the series as a rookie facing a genuine learning curve against established grid veterans, his proven ability to adapt quickly across different categories makes him a highly promising prospect for the GEN4 era.”
Preston also highlighted the contribution Shwartzman has already made behind the scenes, particularly through his technical feedback during the team’s preparations.
“He has already shown strong potential behind the wheel and has integrated well into the team, providing invaluable feedback as we prepare for the 2027 Season.”
Formula E Prepares for GEN4 Debut
Shwartzman’s arrival comes at an important time for Lola, with the team looking to establish itself as a competitive force as Formula E moves into its GEN4 era.
The first major opportunity to see the new machinery in action will come during pre-season testing at Madrid’s Jarama circuit, scheduled to take place from 16-20 November 2026.
For Shwartzman, the upcoming campaign offers the chance to establish himself in a new championship while contributing to an ambitious technical project. With Formula E and WEC both featuring on his 2027 schedule, the Russian driver faces one of the busiest seasons of his career.
His combination of experience, adaptability and existing involvement in Lola’s development programme could make him an important figure in the team’s GEN4 ambitions. The real test, however, will begin when he lines up against Formula E’s established names for the first time.
