NASCAR debuts its first-ever EV prototype race car

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NASCAR has unveiled its first-ever electric vehicle (EV) prototype. This innovative step symbolizes NASCAR’s commitment to achieving zero carbon emissions across its core operations by 2035. 

 

The ABB NASCAR EV Prototype, which was developed in collaboration with NASCAR’s OEM partners, Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota, was revealed at Chicago Street Race. Despite being a prototype, NASCAR officials were quick to clarify that this is just the beginning, and not an indication that any of its national series will exclusively feature electric cars. 

 

The electrified stock car, which has been tested on the track, is equipped with three STARD UHP 6-Phase motors (one in the front, two in the rear) that deliver power directly to all four Goodyear Racing Eagle tires, specifically designed for this purpose. The powertrain, which can be tuned, is anchored by a 78-kWh liquid-cooled battery and can generate up to 1,000 kW at peak power. The car also features regenerative braking, which transforms kinetic energy into power, making it perfectly suited for road courses and short oval tracks.

 

The car, which is an All-Wheel Drive, has a generic body of a Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) made from a sustainable flax-based composite. It bears many resemblances to both the Next Gen and Garage 56 cars – the body is mounted on a modified Next Gen chassis, and components like the steering, suspension, brakes, and wheels are all derived from the NASCAR Cup Series car.

 

This electrifying development doesn’t just signal a change in NASCAR’s vehicle lineup. It also marks a significant shift in the auditory experience of a NASCAR race. Traditionally, the roar of the engines has been a defining feature of these events. However, the new EV prototype doesn’t roar - it hums. This subtle change is a clear indication of the transformation that NASCAR is undergoing.

 

In collaboration with ABB, a global leader in electrification and automation, NASCAR has launched the ABB NASCAR Electrification Innovation Partnership. This partnership aims to push the boundaries of electrification technology, from EV racing to long-haul transportation to facility operations.

 

“ABB is an industry leader and will help in efforts to decarbonize our operations as we pursue achieving net-zero operating emissions over the next decade,” said Eric Nyquist, NASCAR Senior Vice President and Chief Impact Officer.

 

 

NASCAR’s unveiling of its EV prototype is a game-changing development in the world of motorsports. It represents a significant step towards a more sustainable future and a commitment to innovation. But what do you think? How will this shift towards electric vehicles impact the future of NASCAR and motorsports as a whole? Share your thoughts below.

 

 

Read more:

• https://www.nascar.com/news-media/2024/07/06/nascar-abb-reveal-ev-prototype-and-launch-electrification-innovation-partnership/
• https://edition.cnn.com/2024/07/06/business/electric-nascar-race-car-unveiled/index.html
• https://apnews.com/article/nascar-cup-chicago-electric-racecar-bda74ac3affb199367c680e662aaf2d2
• https://www.nbcsports.com/nascar/news/nascar-unveils-prototype-electric-race-car
• https://www.espn.com/racing/story/_/id/40507468/nascar-unveil-1st-electric-racecar-gauge-fan-interest
• https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nascar-shocks-fans-electric-prototype-debut-what-you-need-know-1921940

 

Images: NASCAR