They were replaced by 2016 GP2 Series champion and Super Formula driver Pierre Gasly and GP2 Series driver Alex Lynn.[1] In the first motor race held in New York City since 1896,[122] Lynn clinched pole position in his maiden ePrix ahead of Abt.[123] Wheelspin from Lynn at the start promoted Abt to first place.[124] He could not pull away from the field because he conserved electrical energy.[125] Bird grew frustrated with teammate Lynn defending and was later granted permission to overtake him for second on lap nine and quickly challenged Abt for the lead.[126] Meanwhile, Abt had brake trouble and his team requested he focus on restoring electrical energy.[127] Bird used this handicap to his advantage, and after twice failing to pass him,[128] overtook Abt for the lead on lap 16.[126] Electrical energy management issues swiftly demoted Lynn from second to fifth by lap 17.