- This topic is empty.
-
Topic
-
Formula 1 and NASCAR need to cut carbon emissions. Formula 1 is moving towards sustainability by using eco-friendly fuels and creating Formula E for clean racing. NASCAR is also taking steps by planning to go all-electric by 2035.
NASCAR recently revealed its first electric racecar prototype at the Chicago Street Race. This $1.5 million car, made with ABB, Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota, is part of the NASCAR Impact program. Riley Nelson, NASCAR’s sustainability head, aims to see how fans feel about electric racing. NASCAR driver David Ragan tested the prototype and shared interesting feedback.
Ragan tested the car at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia and was only slightly slower than a V8-powered NASCAR racer. The electric car accelerates quickly and brakes well, but its weight makes cornering a bit tricky. Ragan played it safe to gather data without damaging the car.
The electric racecar, based on a modified Next Gen chassis, is powered by three STARD UHP 6-Phase motors and a 78 kWh battery. The car also has regenerative braking to convert braking energy into power.
The car is sustainable in other ways too, with an all-wheel-drive system and a body made from flax-based material. Some parts are recycled from a 2022 NASCAR Cup Series car. Unlike V8 cars, this electric one is quiet, but plans include adding artificial sound through exterior speakers for fans to enjoy.
- You must be logged in to reply to this topic.