Nissan and BMW Looking to Join Formula E

Sources told Autosport, a British motorsport magazine, that both, Nissan and BMW, are involved in discussions with existing teams as they seek to make their way to the grid as early as the next season. Just so you know, the 2016 - 17 Formula E season is scheduled to begin in October 2016. With that said, it must be noted that BMW has already been involved in Formula E - at least indirectly. Since the series' inception, the Munich-based manufacturer has supplied the i8 as the safety car, while the i3 serves as the medical car.

Nissan's association with the series is extraneous; Renault, the Japanese manufacturer's French partner, provided the Spark-Renault SRT_01E, the car each team used in the inaugural season. Other than that, Renault is also a benefactor of its own team in the series - Renault e.dams. Long story short, Nissan would need to work things out with Renault in order to compete in the series.

In 2015, Jens Marquardt, BMW Motorsport Director, had ruled out the possibility of the manufacturer's participation in the series due to the practice of swapping cars mid-race. The German automaker is unlikely to change its mind till the practice comes to an end.

Since Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) has already confirmed 10 teams for the third season, the two manufacturers will partner up with an existing team if they intend to participate. Autosport adds its sources say that is exactly what is being deliberated. However, direct participation in the Formula E series will serve to not only vouch for their commitment to electric vehicles, but also demonstrate each brand's dexterity and progress in the development of electric vehicles.