Nico Rosberg launches Extreme E team

Extreme E, which will feature 550hp electric SUVs racing off-road in five remote areas of the world, has already attracted a team from Rosberg’s former teammate and title rival Lewis Hamilton.

In addition, already confirmed are entries from Chip Ganassi Racing, Andretti/United Autosports, Abt Sportsline, Techeetah and HWA.

The FIA-sanctioned series will hold five rounds – Senegal, Saudi Arabia, Nepal, Greenland and Brazil – and the locations have been chosen to raise awareness of aspects of climate change.

Since retiring from Formula 1, Rosberg has invested in sustainability start-up businesses, and last year founded the GreenTech Festival to showcase pioneering ‘green’ technologies.

Said Rosberg: “We are thrilled to unveil Rosberg Xtreme Racing as the latest addition to Extreme E. The series represents an amazing opportunity to not only drive awareness but also inspire action in the fight against climate change – the single biggest threat to our planet today.

“Since retiring from F1 I have dedicated my career to sustainable technologies so to be able to combine these endeavours with my passion for racing is incredibly fulfilling.”

Alejandro Agag, Extreme E Founder and CEO, added: “We are ecstatic to finally announce that Rosberg Xtreme Racing will be joining our line-up for the first season of Extreme E.

“We have been talking about this project for many months and we are thrilled he has chosen Extreme E for his formal return to motorsport as founder and CEO of his own racing team. There is clearly a great synergy between Nico’s endeavours in the sustainability field and the aims of Extreme E so his team is a hugely welcomed addition to the series.”

Eco luxury catamaran manufacturer Sunreef Yachts and the company’s president Francis Lapp have extended their relationship with Rosberg to become official team partners of Rosberg Xtreme Racing.