McLaren Racing and TDK The NEOM McLaren Formula E Team Shines at Inaugural Jeddah E-Prix as TDK Executives Experience Unforgettable Weekend

Mar. 21, 2025

The NEOM McLaren Formula E Team delivered a stellar performance at the inaugural Jeddah E-Prix with both drivers, Taylor Barnard and Sam Bird, showcasing their racing prowess on the challenging Saudi Arabian Jeddah Corniche Circuit which made its debut to the Formula E calendar this year for rounds 3 and 4 of the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, with previous Saudi Arabian E-Prix held in Riyadh.

It was a historic weekend for Taylor Barnard, who made headlines by becoming the youngest-ever pole position holder in Formula E history (at the age of 20). Adding to his impressive achievement, Barnard secured podium finishes on both race days, solidifying his status as one of the brightest young talents in the sport.

Meanwhile, Sam Bird demonstrated his experience and consistency, contributing valuable points to the team’s championship campaign with a P8 finish in Friday’s race. The combined efforts of Barnard and Bird underscored NEOM McLaren's competitive edge in the highly-contested all-electric racing series. After the nail-biting performance in Jeddah, NEOM McLaren Formula E Team are sitting second place in the Teams’ Championship standings.

Networking was another highlight, as TDK’s representatives connected with other B2B companies and NEOM McLaren partners. These interactions not only strengthened existing relationships but also opened doors to new strategic technology collaborations. McLaren Racing and TDK are working together to highlight TDK’s strong commitment and presence in xEV and gaming, including the development of passives, sensors, charging and battery technologies. Through the partnership, TDK and McLaren Racing are learning from each other's experience in the pursuit of performance, on and off the track. Some technical components developed by TDK can already be found in the powertrain of the Nissan e-4ORCE 05.

For TDK, the Jeddah E-Prix was more than just a sporting event; it was an opportunity to amplify its brand visibility and reinforce its commitment to innovation and transforming society. By leveraging its technology partnership with the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team, TDK is positioning itself as a key player in the automotive industry and a forward-thinking technology enabler. The event also served as an inspiration to TDK’s employees and young talent, highlighting the company’s involvement in the future of mobility and clean energy solutions.