Bethonie WaringBMW i Andretti Motorsport test and simulator driver Jake Dennis has been promoted to a full-time race seat for the 2020-21 Formula E season.
Dennis joins Maximilian Gunther at the team for Season 7, replacing Alexander Sims who makes the move to Mahindra Racing.
“I’m really looking forward to the new challenge that awaits me in Formula E, and would like to thank all those in charge at BMW i Andretti Motorsport for their trust,” Dennis said.
“I’m aware that I will be confronted with unique requirements in Formula E, which I will need to get used to first, but versatility has always been one of my strengths, and I am confident that, with the help of the team and my fellow driver Maximilian Gunther, I will be quick to get my bearings.
“Formula E is one of those race series that, as a racing driver, you really want to be involved in at the moment because the level of manufacturers, teams and drivers is higher there than anywhere else. I can’t wait to be starting a Formula E race in the BMW iFE.21 for the very first time.”
Dennis spent 2019 racing with Aston Martin’s R-Motorsport squad in the DTM championship, taking five points finishes for the manufacturer.
He also competed with the team in Blancpain GT, where he, Marvin Krichhofer and Alex Lynn finished sixth overall.
However, it was Dennis’ performance in his testing and simulator roles at BMW that earned him his position on the FE team.
“I’m delighted that we were able to recruit a young, talented, versatile driver like him for our Formula E project,” said BMW group motorsport director Jens Marquardt. “His performances in the BMW Motorsport simulator and during test drives in the BMW iFE.20 were impressive, which is why we decided to offer him the cockpit alongside Maximilian Gunther.
“Jake made a name for himself through his appearances in the DTM and with his podium finish in the Bathurst 12 Hours, among other things. He is also a simulator and development driver for Aston Martin Red Bull Racing in Formula 1.
“But our decision wasn’t based soley on whether someone has raced in the DTM or Formula 1. To be successful in Formula E with all its unique challenges, a driver must need some very special criteria. We considered all those and tested our candidates thoroughly with these in mind.
“At the end, it was clear to us that Jake Dennis brings the perfect full package that we desire in Formula E.”
The announcement means all but five seats are confirmed for the upcoming season.
NIO, Techeetah, and Mahindra each have one driver to announce, while Dragon Racing are yet to reveal either driver.
