NASCAR's electric racing vehicle prototype

NASCAR Introduces Electric SUV Prototype, Emphasizes Commitment to Gasoline Engines

NASCAR, traditionally known for its roaring, gas-powered race cars, has taken a step into the electric future by unveiling an all-electric SUV prototype. This new vehicle, which boasts double the horsepower of current NASCAR cars, marks a significant development in the sport.

The electric SUV, revealed on Saturday, is a fully drivable prototype with three electric motors that collectively generate up to 1,300 horsepower. This is almost twice the power of NASCAR’s current gasoline-powered race cars. The SUV retains the colorful design and aerodynamic features familiar to NASCAR fans, including large wheels and a rear wing for stability at high speeds.

Despite this venture into electric technology, NASCAR executives reassured fans that the iconic combustion engine remains central to the sport. “The combustion engine is our core product, and that will remain so for the coming future,” said Riley Nelson, NASCAR’s head of sustainability.

The introduction of the electric SUV is seen as a way to gauge fan interest in electric vehicles without committing to a full transition. NASCAR’s senior vice president of racing development, John Probst, acknowledged that some fans might resist the shift to electric racing. However, he believes that witnessing the power and speed of electric cars could change opinions.

Built in collaboration with ABB, a company involved in electric vehicle infrastructure and Formula E racing, the NASCAR EV prototype aims to showcase the potential of electric vehicles. ABB’s executive vice president for electrification in the US, Michael Plaster, expressed hope that the performance of the electric SUV on the track could boost interest in EVs.

This initiative aligns with NASCAR’s broader goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2035. While racing contributes a small portion of NASCAR’s overall emissions, efforts are being made to reduce emissions across all operations, including office spaces and track facilities.

Currently, NASCAR cars use a fuel mix of 85% gasoline and 15% ethanol. Plans are underway to develop a more sustainable racing fuel that maintains the characteristic roar of V8 engines.

NASCAR’s move to introduce an electric SUV also reflects the changing landscape of the automotive market, where traditional cars now represent less than 20% of US auto sales. By exploring both battery electric and crossover vehicle options, NASCAR aims to stay relevant and innovative in a rapidly evolving industry.

“We actually have the opportunity to evaluate not just the battery electric part, but then also the crossover vehicle part,” said Probst. “So, it may be that one or both of these will become something in the future for us.”

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