NASCAR surprised the automotive world on Sunday by debuting a new electric stock car, boasting twice the horsepower of its current race cars.
The prototype made its appearance at the Chicago Street Race, generating 1,000 kW at peak power, ideal for road courses and short oval tracks. This vehicle was developed with contributions from Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota and was built by NASCAR engineers.
Despite the impressive capabilities of the electric vehicle (EV), NASCAR stated that they have no immediate plans to switch from gasoline-powered cars. In a press release, the organization emphasized its commitment to the historical role of combustion engines in racing while also aiming to decarbonize its operations and achieve a zero carbon footprint by 2035 through electrification and innovative solutions.
The showcased EV is powered by three electric motors: one for the front wheels and two for the rear, together producing up to 1,300 horsepower. This level of power could help convert NASCAR fans, who often view electric vehicles with skepticism, to the new technology’s potential.
NASCAR driver David Ragan tested the $1.5 million vehicle and told the Associated Press that his fastest lap at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia was “two-tenths of a second slower” than a gas-powered car. He cited the vehicle’s heavier weight as a factor that slowed it down in turns.
Electric vehicles are not new to the racing scene. Formula One, for instance, launched the Formula E, an all-electric race series, 10 years ago.
Original Story at fortune.com