Swiss fans got the chance to see a Formula E car in action for the first time when a fully-electric single-seater sailed through the streets of Geneva as local IndyCar driver Simona de Silvestro took the wheel of the Spark-Renault SRT_01E.

Setting off from the newly opened TAG Heuer Geneva boutique the SRT_01E continued along the Quai du Général Guisan, past the Geneva branch of Julius Baer, then continued crossing the Pont du Mont Blanc Bridge before finishing on the Quai du Mont-Blanc.

The last motor race to be held in Switzerland was at the circuit of Bremgarten, near Bern, in 1954. Now, after a historic decision by the National Council to adopt a motion by MP Fathi Derder, Switzerland can welcome professional motorsport back into the country. It was Mr Derder who actually gave the start of the street demo, waving the Swiss flag ahead of the car.

The new law – to be confirmed by the Council of States – is restricted to only electric vehicle racing. This opens up the possibility for Formula E to race on the city streets of Switzerland in the future.

This month will also see attention turn to Geneva as the capital of the motorsport world with the launch of the Geneva International Motor Show from the 5-15 March. The Formula E car will be on display with the e.dams-Renault car also on show on the Renault stand.