Formula E electrifies Portland with inaugural event and economic boost.

The Formula E World Championship series made its debut at Portland International Raceway with barely noisier electric cars than a bicycle race. Nick Cassidy won the inaugural event at PIR, holding off pole sitter Jake Dennis. The field of cars raced in tight groups, particularly down PIR’s front stretch, where they were occasionally four across the track. The difference between Formula E and NASCAR and IndyCar is a greater percentage of international fans. Formula E is scheduled to return to Portland in 2024.