NASCAR presented a cutting-edge electric vehicle prototype stock car at the Chicago Street Race today. This vehicle is part of NASCAR’s sustainability endeavors, which involve collaborating with Swedish electrification firm ABB. The EV prototype marks a significant departure from traditional stock cars.
Today will be electric. Today will be historic.
Today is @NASCARChicago race day! #NASCARChicago @BCBSIL | @McDonalds pic.twitter.com/8BDNfMjf8M
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) July 7, 2024
Its appearance resembles that of a performance crossover vehicle. Although it boasts advanced technology, it is not poised to replace the fuel-burning V8 engines currently used in NASCAR races anytime soon. The prototype is equipped with three electric motors fueled by a 78-kWh liquid-cooled battery.
“It’s a really big deal that we’re here.”@Blaney on coming to @NASCARChicago. pic.twitter.com/gMdLmDXkrk
— NASCAR (@NASCAR) July 7, 2024
It can produce 1,000kW at its peak power. Constructed on a modified version of the Next Gen chassis introduced by NASCAR in 2022, Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota collaborated in its development.
NASCAR has just unveiled its crossover electric vehicle for the first time publicly. No plans for it to race or have an electric series at this time. pic.twitter.com/0bzl2PVR0O
— Jeff Gluck (@jeff_gluck) July 6, 2024
During its public unveiling, NASCAR driver David Ragan had the opportunity to be the sole person driving the $1.5 million prototype. Ragan reported that his fastest lap at Martinsville Speedway in Virginia was only two-tenths of a second slower than a regular racer. While the EV offers nearly double the acceleration, its increased weight posed challenges in turns.
Traditional stock cars remain the primary focus of NASCAR racing. Nonetheless, the organization is delving into high-performance racing options comparable to the all-electric Formula E series sponsored by ABB. NASCAR’s commitment to innovation and sustainability implies that while conventional fuel-powered racecars remain dominant for now, the future of racing could include electric vehicles.
The official presentation of the electric vehicle prototype race car by NASCAR occurred on Saturday in Chicago. This signifies a significant advancement in the sport’s efforts to explore and implement new electrification technologies. Still, the prototype is not expected to join any national racing series in the immediate future.
NASCAR showcased the ABB NASCAR EV Prototype at the Chicago Street Race event as part of its new partnership with ABB, a leading player in electrification and automation. ABB is the primary partner of the “NASCAR Impact” initiative.
This initiative aims to drive forward sustainability efforts, zeroing in on electrification and electric vehicle charging. “NASCAR Impact” intends to eliminate NASCAR’s carbon footprint entirely across its core operations by 2035. Additionally, NASCAR aims to implement 100% renewable electricity at its owned race tracks and facilities by 2028.
The organization plans to broaden waste diversion endeavors and install on-site EV charging stations. The extensive research and development venture behind the EV prototype underscores NASCAR’s dedication to showcasing new electrification technologies. Nevertheless, this does not indicate an imminent departure from the traditional combustion engine in racing.
John Probst, NASCAR’s senior vice president and chief racing development officer, emphasized that there is a lengthy journey ahead for the combustion engine. It may run on sustainable fuel or hydrogen, or potentially transition to hybrid electrification.
The EV prototype signifies an exploration of NASCAR’s potential future. Developed in collaboration with NASCAR’s partners Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota, it was created by the engineers responsible for the current Next Gen car used in the Cup Series.
The EV stock car has undergone numerous track tests. It features three STARD UHP 6-Phase motors – one in the front and two at the rear, supplying power directly to all four specially designed Goodyear tires.
Equipped with a 78-kWh liquid-cooled battery, the tunable powertrain can deliver 1,000 kW at its peak power. Through regenerative braking, kinetic energy is converted into power, potentially making the car well-suited for road courses and short oval tracks.
New electric prototype debuts in NASCAR
The all-wheel-drive vehicle sports a body constructed from sustainable flax-based composite, derived from current Cup cars’ components such as the modified chassis, steering, suspension, brakes, and wheels.
Former NASCAR Cup driver David Ragan acted as the test driver for the EV prototype and described the experience as “really fun.”
With the EV prototype now unveiled, NASCAR’s next phase involves determining how this new technology can shape upcoming racing developments. Probst envisions it opening the door for NASCAR and manufacturers to explore a multitude of new avenues.
NASCAR’s EV prototype also integrates flax-based composites, developed by Swiss lightweighting specialists Bcomp. This milestone represents the first significant U.S. motorsports project to adopt this technology. Bcomp’s ampliTex technical fabrics in conjunction with powerRibs, inspired by the vein structure of leaves, are utilized in the bodywork.
The debut of this innovative electric vehicle prototype underscores NASCAR’s commitment to exploring and incorporating sustainable practices in motorsports while upholding the excitement and essence of the sport beloved by fans. The 2024 NASCAR Chicago Street Race is currently taking place in and around Grant Park on July 6 and 7, featuring two premier races and a family-friendly festival with live music performances by The Black Keys, The Chainsmokers, and Keith Urban.
Extensive street closures and reroutes have been implemented as the city prepares the intricate race course. Fans are converging on the city over the extended Fourth of July holiday weekend. Shane van Gisbergen, the victor of the Cup Series in Chicago last year, secured his third Xfinity Series triumph of the season on Saturday and is set to compete again on Sunday.
NASCAR Street Race President Julie Giese remarked, “It was his first NASCAR win. He took home the victory yesterday. He will be competing again today, so we’ll see how he does.”
Downtown Chicago is gearing up for Sunday afternoon’s NASCAR Cup Series race following the success of Saturday’s NASCAR Xfinity Series race.
Drivers are scheduled to hit the track at 3:30 p.m. for a 75-lap circuit around Chicago’s Loop, where speeds can reach up to 100 mph. The course features numerous twists and turns, rendering it more challenging compared to standard race tracks. Entry gates and NASCAR Village at Butler Field will open at 9 a.m. Sunday, with acclaimed performers like Keith Urban and Lauren Alaina slated to entertain the audience.
The first day has concluded and appears to have been a massive success. Attendees and participants raved about the entire experience in conversations with Stephanie Wade. Individuals from various states and countries flocked to witness the action, with many encountering NASCAR for the first time.
Saturday’s events encompassed a 50-lap race in The Loop 110 NASCAR Xfinity Series, an unconventional freestyle motocross exhibition, and live performances by Buddy Guy, The Black Keys, and The Chainsmokers as headliners. More thrilling events are in store for Sunday, with the main event Cup Series featuring 75 laps. The race is injecting a special energy into Chicago, with hopes of NASCAR making a permanent return to the city.
Michelle Prifer of Michigan, visiting the event, expressed, “I think it brings people from all walks of life together… both Chicagoans and the rest of the country. We could use that right now.”
Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series is set to commence around 3 p.m., with the added allure of live entertainment from Keith Urban at 1 p.m. Shane van Gisbergen is the BETMGM Sportsbook favorite to clinch victory on Sunday.
Having won Saturday’s Xfinity Series race, Kyle Larson is on the pole, aiming for his fourth win of the season in his 350th career Cup Series start. The Chicago street course presents a challenging opportunity for drivers yet to secure a win. Alex Bowman foresees a mix of possibilities and challenges on the Chicago street course.
This event could reshape the playoff field, currently occupied by Martin Truex Jr., Ty Gibbs, Ross Chastain, Chris Buescher, and Bowman in the last five playoff spots based on points. Several drivers are vying to solidify their playoff position, including Bubba Wallace, Chase Briscoe, and two-time Cup champion Kyle Busch. Martin Truex Jr., contemplating retirement from full-time racing at season-end, remarked, “I feel like we should have a win.” Chris Buescher, also in pursuit of victory, reflects on past near misses and anticipates the challenging Chicago race.
The second iteration of the downtown Chicago street race offers another opportunity for 18 winless Cup Series drivers eligible for the playoffs. The 12-turn, 2.2-mile course, characterized by narrowness and bumps, leaves minimal room for error. A collision could create openings and pitfalls in terms of accumulating points.
For continuous updates, follow along as the race weekend evolves.
