NASCAR surprised attendees at its Chicago Street Race on Saturday with the debut of a fully electric SUV prototype. The NASCAR EV Prototype, powered by three six-phase motors and a 78-kwh battery pack, features all-wheel drive and regenerative braking technology. Developed in partnership with ABB, the prototype showcases NASCAR’s potential move towards electric vehicles. With sustainability in mind, the vehicle boasts a body made of sustainable flax-based composite materials and components derived from current race cars.
The road to electrify the “stock car”
While NASCAR has historically featured thirsty V-8 engines and rear-wheel-drive cars with rear-mounted manual transmissions, the organization has taken steps towards greener technologies. The development of the Next Gen car in 2022 marked a shift towards aligning race car components with production vehicles. Despite commitments to introduce a hybrid powertrain by 2024, the timeline for such advancements has been pushed back to around 2027. NASCAR has also set carbon emissions reduction goals, aiming to achieve zero carbon footprints across its core operations by 2035.
Still an arena of 5-mpg guzzlers
NASCAR’s current race cars continue to consume fuel at a rate of approximately 5 mpg during races, resulting in significant fuel consumption throughout a season. In comparison, Formula E cars complete entire races on a full charge of less than 47 kwh, highlighting the efficiency of electric vehicles. The disparity in fuel efficiency raises questions about the future of NASCAR and its alignment with sustainable practices.
Could EVs bring the “stock” back?
As technologies within the automotive industry evolve towards electrification, NASCAR faces the challenge of appealing to its audience while embracing sustainability. The potential introduction of the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV, inspired by the heritage Daytona vehicle, represents a blend of traditional aesthetic and modern electric technology. This approach may be crucial in persuading NASCAR fans to embrace EVs and support the organization’s green initiatives.
In conclusion, NASCAR’s unveiling of the electric SUV prototype signals a shift towards greener technologies within the organization. By incorporating sustainable materials and electric components into its race cars, NASCAR aims to align with modern environmental standards. The timeline for introducing hybrid powertrains and reducing carbon footprints demonstrates NASCAR’s commitment to sustainability, despite challenges in convincing its audience to embrace electric vehicles. The introduction of the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV presents an opportunity to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation, potentially leading the way for a new era of eco-friendly racing in NASCAR.