Leonardo DiCaprio founds electric car racing team

The inception of Hollywood endorsements for electric cars could be here – as film star and environmental campaigner Leonardo DiCaprio has co-founded a team for the Formula E Championship. ‘The […]

The inception of Hollywood endorsements for electric cars could be here – as film star and environmental campaigner Leonardo DiCaprio has co-founded a team for the Formula E Championship.

‘The Aviator’ actor (left) has set up a team in the racing series with Gildo Pallanca Pastor (right), the founder of pioneering EV manufacturer Venturi Automobiles, as well as entrepreneurs Francesco Costa and Bert Hedaya.

DiCaprio said: “The future of our planet depends on our ability to embrace fuel-efficient, clean-energy vehicles. Venturi Grand Prix has shown tremendous foresight in their decision to create an environmentally friendly racing team and I am happy to be a part of this effort.”

Ten teams – each with two drivers – are lined up to compete in the Formula E race which will visit 10 of the world’s leading cities including London, Beijing and Los Angeles.

Alejandro Agag, CEO of series promoters Formula E Holdings said: “I want to give a very special welcome to our Championship to Leonardo DiCaprio. Very few environmental leaders have helped more than him to spread the message of sustainability around the world.”

He added Gildo Pallanco Pastor is a “true pioneer” in electric racing: “From the desert of Salt Lake to Antarctica, his passion and vision pushes forward the technology barriers of what can be done with an electric car.”

Last week business tycoon Richard Branson backed a Virgin team to enter the Formula E race.

Latest Podcast