NASCAR has revealed a new alliance to develop a prototype electric stock car as part of its efforts to enhance sustainability.
ABB, a company specializing in electrification and automation solutions, is collaborating with NASCAR to create the new prototype and drive both entities towards long-term sustainability objectives related to electric vehicles (EVs) and EV charging technology.
The primary goal of this partnership is the introduction of a demonstration EV that leverages NASCAR’s historical expertise in vehicle innovation alongside recent advancements in electrification.
Working in conjunction with Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota, NASCAR has constructed the new car, which was showcased before the Chicago Street Race on July 7th.
Utilizing a modified chassis from NASCAR’s Next Gen vehicles introduced in 2022, the car features a 78 kilowatt-hour battery and three motors—two in the rear and one in the front. With a peak output of 1,000 kilowatts, equivalent to over 1,300 horsepower, the powertrain includes modern elements like regenerative braking and composite body panels incorporating flax material.
Despite its symbolical significance within an organization deeply associated with traditional gas-powered engines, NASCAR affirms its ongoing commitment to combustion engine racing. Simultaneously, NASCAR aims to achieve zero carbon emissions across its primary activities by 2035.
“While NASCAR maintains the historic legacy of combustion engines in racing, it is also dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint and transitioning to sustainable practices by 2035,” stated NASCAR in a press release.
NASCAR intends to implement sustainable practices across various support operations for stock car racing, such as adopting renewable energy at racetracks and facilities, exploring sustainable fuel options for racing cars, and enhancing sustainability in long-haul trucking.
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