“I am still getting used to it”: Taylor Barnard on settling in at DS Penske this season

Things are yet to look up for Taylor Barnard since he moved to DS Penske this season. The Briton was the youngest Formula E driver last year and bagged multiple podiums in his rookie campaign. However, he is yet to hit his stride this season, though the way he is working on himself is expected to bring results sooner rather than later. The 21-year-old recently opened up about his struggles and how this season differs from his rookie year.

Taylor Barnard yet to find form this season

Taylor Barnard made his Formula E debut with NEOM McLaren in Season 10 but went on to compete as a full-time driver last season. Since the team exited the motorsport, Barnard moved to DS Penske, while his teammate Sam Bird pursued other opportunities.

Speaking about switching teams, Barnard told Formulae.com in an interview, “You know the basics and you know that you have systems and you know that you have the same tyres and it's the same car. But the way that you actually try to maximise it is completely different. So, I’ll be honest and say I’m still getting used to it.”

“It's been okay. I prefer to be a bit harsh on myself and make sure that I keep working as hard as I can instead of being relaxed and going, ‘Oh, everyone’s telling me I’m doing a great job’, so I’d rather work a bit too hard than the opposite,” he added.

Taylor Barnard feels more comfortable in the Formula E paddock now

Taylor Barnard is no longer the youngest driver on the Formula E grid after a number of rookies, such as Pepe Martí, joined this season.

Speaking about his growing experience, Barnard said, “To be honest, the longer that I stay here, obviously the more familiar faces I know. Last year was a little bit intimidating not knowing everybody, and Sam (Bird) was walking through the paddock and saying hello to everyone left and right. But this year I feel a bit more comfortable; I know a lot of people around here. I think in the next couple of years some of the older guys on the grid will not be here anymore and perhaps some of my friends or my colleagues, I guess, from people who I’ve raced in my junior career will be stepping in. So, I think the times will change in the next few years.”

Barnard is yet to hit top form this season, but he did come close to a podium in Mexico, where he finished fourth. He is currently 13th in the Formula E Drivers’ Standings with 14 points. He still has room to improve as there are still eleven races remaining before the season concludes.

Also read: Exclusive interview: Edoardo Mortara shines for Mahindra Racing this season, says “important to keep your feet on the ground”


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