Global chemical giant SABIC took center stage as a Principal and Innovation Partner at the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship’s Jeddah E-Prix, held February 14–15 on Saudi Arabia’s revamped Corniche Circuit.
The high-octane event, hosting Rounds 3 and 4 of the 2025 championship, drew global attention not only for its adrenaline-fueled races but also as a proving ground for next-generation electric vehicle (EV) technologies.
For SABIC, the sponsorship marked more than a branding opportunity—it was a strategic platform to spotlight its role in shaping the future of sustainable mobility. Since aligning with Formula E in 2022, the company has leveraged the sport’s GENBETA development program, a collaborative initiative to test and refine EV innovations under extreme racing conditions. “This isn’t just about speed on the track,” said a SABIC representative. “It’s about accelerating real-world solutions for cleaner, safer, and more efficient electric vehicles.”
The newly redesigned Jeddah circuit, a staple of the Formula E calendar since 2019, underscored Saudi Arabia’s ambition to position itself as a hub for global sporting events and technological innovation. The Kingdom’s push aligns with its Vision 2030 goals, which prioritize economic diversification and investments in cutting-edge industries.
At its trackside exhibit, SABIC showcased advanced materials tailored for EVs, including lightweight polymers and flame-retardant compounds designed to enhance battery safety and vehicle efficiency. Interactive displays allowed visitors to explore how these innovations translate from racetrack prototypes to consumer vehicles. “The lessons we learn here directly inform our work with automakers,” the representative added, noting that insights from Formula E’s high-pressure environment help address critical challenges like cost reduction and thermal management in commercial EVs.
Industry analysts highlight the growing symbiosis between motorsport and automotive R&D. “Racing forces rapid iteration—fail fast, learn faster,” said one expert. “Partners like SABIC use these extremes to develop materials that meet everyday durability and sustainability demands.”
The event also served as a rallying point for SABIC’s broader mission, dubbed “Chemistry that Matters,” which emphasizes scalable solutions for global challenges. With the EV market projected to grow exponentially, the company aims to cement its role as a linchpin in the automotive supply chain, particularly in regions like the Middle East, where renewable energy investments are surging.
As Formula E cars zipped past Jeddah’s coastal skyline, the message was clear: The race to electrify transportation is accelerating, and chemistry—not just horsepower—will determine who leads the pack.
