Mahindra Racing has confirmed that Indian driver Kush Maini will participate in the ABB FIA Formula E Rookie Test, scheduled for July 14 at Berlin’s Tempelhof Airport Street Circuit. The one-day test is part of the all-electric series’ efforts to develop future racing talent and will mark Maini’s second official Formula E outing with Mahindra.
Rising Through the Ranks
Maini has steadily climbed the motorsport ladder over the past few years. A native of Bengaluru, he began his international career in karting before progressing through the ranks of Formula Renault, British F3, and the FIA Formula 3 Championship. He currently competes full-time in the FIA Formula 2 series, which serves as a direct feeder to the Formula 1 championship.
His most recent F2 success, a victory on the streets of Monaco, has only solidified his status as one of India’s most promising motorsport prospects. With two wins and seven podiums under his belt, Maini has demonstrated both speed and consistency in one of the world’s most competitive junior categories.
A Familiar Seat in Berlin
This won’t be Maini’s first taste of Formula E or the Mahindra M11Electro. Earlier this season, he participated in a dedicated rookie Free Practice session in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where he topped the timesheets despite never having driven a Formula E car before. That performance has helped secure his spot for the Berlin test, one of the few opportunities young drivers have to test current-generation electric racing machinery under official conditions.
He also took part in last year’s Rookie Test in Berlin and served as Mahindra’s official Reserve Driver throughout Season 10. That experience has allowed him to build a working relationship with the team and familiarise himself with the technical and strategic demands of electric racing.
Formula E’s Unique Challenges
Formula E presents a unique challenge for drivers accustomed to traditional internal combustion engines. Energy management, regenerative braking, and highly technical street circuits require a distinct driving approach. The current GEN3 Evo car—lighter, faster, and more efficient than its predecessors—represents a leap forward in electric motorsport technology.
Maini’s adaptability in Jeddah, where he led the session despite those challenges, suggests he could be well-suited to the demands of Formula E.
Also Read: Kush Maini’s Monaco Win: A Milestone for Indian Motorsport
India’s Growing Presence in Global Motorsport
Maini’s continued presence in international motorsport comes at a time when India is seeing a resurgence of interest in racing. With his cousin Arjun Maini also involved in endurance racing and the rise of Indian karting and F4 programs, the country is beginning to build a stronger foundation in global competition.
Mahindra remains the only Indian manufacturer competing at the FIA World Championship level, and its partnership with Maini highlights a commitment to fostering homegrown talent.
