- tech360.tv
NASCAR Introduces its First Electric Racecar, Paving the Way for Clean Power
NASCAR has unveiled its first electric racecar, showcasing its commitment to clean power. The electric racecar offers a unique sensory experience, with reduced noise and emissions. NASCAR aims to generate interest in electric racing and promote electric vehicles as cool and accessible.
Partnering with industry giants Chevrolet, Ford, Toyota, and electrification company ABB, NASCAR aims to showcase high-performance electric vehicles and generate interest in electric racing. The goal is to present electric vehicles as cool, fun, and accessible, according to Riley Nelson, NASCAR's head of sustainability.
The prototype, valued at US$1.5 million, was exclusively test-driven by semi-retired NASCAR driver David Ragan. The plan is to take the car to the Chicago street course for some exhilarating laps on Sunday morning, providing a glimpse into the future of racing.
Ragan expressed his awe at the experience, noting that the sound and smell were unlike anything he had encountered before. Unlike traditional gasoline-powered cars, the electric racecar offers a unique sensory experience, with the absence of overpowering engine noise and exhaust fumes. Ragan described the encounter as "wild."
Distinguishing itself from typical sports coupes, the new electric racecar is designed as a crossover utility vehicle, featuring an aerodynamic wing for enhanced performance. It accelerates nearly twice as fast as gas-powered racecars and boasts impressive braking capabilities. However, due to its weight, it takes corners slightly slower, resulting in a marginally slower lap time at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia.
Market research conducted by General Motors, represented by Eric Warren, revealed that over half of avid NASCAR fans surveyed would be more inclined to purchase an electric vehicle if exposed to it through racing. Warren emphasised the importance of energy conservation and optimisation, stating that racing provides an ideal platform to educate fans about these concepts.
The move towards electric racing aligns with NASCAR's broader sustainability plan. ABB, now NASCAR's official electrification partner, will assist in sourcing renewable electricity. Additionally, ABB plans to install electric vehicle charging stations at NASCAR-owned tracks across the United States, making them accessible to the public.
By 2028, NASCAR aims to introduce sustainable racing fuel, implement recycling practices at all events, and utilise 100% renewable electricity at its facilities and tracks. The organisation's long-term goal is to achieve "net zero" operating emissions by 2035.
The unveiling of the electric racecar in Chicago drew attention from fans, including young enthusiasts who expressed excitement about the transition to electric vehicles. The possibility of a NASCAR EV series intrigued them, as it would provide more racing action to watch.
While NASCAR is not the first motorsports organisation to venture into electric car racing (Formula E holds that distinction), its vast fan base and influence have the potential to significantly impact the adoption of electric vehicles in the racing world.
NASCAR has unveiled its first electric racecar, showcasing its commitment to clean power.
The electric racecar offers a unique sensory experience, with reduced noise and emissions.
NASCAR aims to generate interest in electric racing and promote electric vehicles as cool and accessible.
Source: AP NEWS