NASCAR’s electric prototype
NASCAR has unveiled a 1,300-horsepower electric vehicle prototype designed to represent the future of stock car racing in America — but not everyone is impressed by the new display of technology.
Kevin Harvick, a former NASCAR Cup Series driver who now serves as a pundit, expressed his strong criticism towards electric vehicles on his Happy Hour podcast. He went to the extent of claiming that electric racing will have no future due to the absence of the traditional sounds and smells associated with combustion-based motorsport.
NASCAR’s electrifying Chicago debut
Racing series worldwide are now challenged with finding solutions to the ongoing trend of “electrify everything” in the automotive industry. IndyCar has recently embraced hybrid technology, while Extreme E is transitioning to a hydrogen-powered battery electric vehicle series known as Extreme H. Formula 1 has also had to address inquiries regarding the possibility of the series going completely electric.
NASCAR has finally unveiled their long-awaited electric prototype at the Chicago street circuit, following months of speculation. The highly anticipated debut was made possible through a collaboration with ABB, a renowned global leader in electrification and automation, who also serves as the title sponsor for Formula E, as mentioned in NASCAR’s official press release.
During the Chicago street race weekend, the NASCAR EV made appearances in multiple show runs. In one of these runs, the vehicle showcased its instant torque by performing a standing start, a unique feature not typically seen in traditional NASCAR races.
With a body style resembling a crossover, the prototype at the track impresses with its 1,300 horsepower. Its body is constructed from a flax-based fiber composite, and it even includes a rear wing, a feature that hasn’t been seen on the Cup Series track since 2010.
The front wheels will be powered by a single motor, while the rear wheels will be controlled by a pair of motors. Collectively, these three motors are capable of producing a maximum power of 1,341 horsepower.
The prototype’s introduction was met with significant criticism.
The NASCAR Cup Series has its origins deeply rooted in powerful V8 combustion engines, and the series has shown a significant resistance to change when it comes to embracing new power sources that align with evolving automotive trends.
Many fans have voiced concerns about the potential negative impact of electrification on key elements they consider essential to stock car racing, such as the loud exhausts and the distinct smell of gasoline. Therefore, a fully electric car would directly contradict the fundamental essence of NASCAR, as perceived by these individuals.
NASCAR has made it clear that their EV prototype is simply a prototype and not indicative of immediate plans to transition to fully-electric racing. If NASCAR does decide to become more environmentally friendly in the future, it is expected to be a significant time away. The purpose of the prototype is to showcase how the latest automotive technology could potentially be integrated into NASCAR.
More on motorsport’s alternative propulsion systems:
Formula 1 v IndyCar: How open-wheel racing’s hybrid powertrains compare
Exclusive: How a hydrogen-powered Championship could impact F1’s future
Kevin Harvick’s take on NASCAR’s EV
Kevin Harvick, a retired Cup Series champion with an exceptional background, has become a prominent critic of the NASCAR EV prototype. Harvick expressed his frank opinions on his podcast, Kevin Harvick’s Happy Hour, without holding back.
According to Harvick, “I believe the push for electric vehicles originally came from the manufacturers, and NASCAR took on this project. However, it seems that the performance of electric vehicles has not lived up to expectations since the beginning of this initiative.”
I believe it is wonderful to witness your possession, but I believe NASCAR had already made significant progress with the EV project endorsed by manufacturers before completing it.
“However, it seems that initially the manufacturers had a plan to each produce three of these vehicles and organize exhibition races. But when the interest in electric vehicles diminished, the manufacturers decided to abandon this idea. They politely declined, saying ‘thanks but no thanks’.”
The only aspect that truly excites me is the fact that NASCAR now has an electric vehicle on their hands, which they can utilize for demonstrations.
“I find no thrill in a race car that lacks any element of noise.”
Harvick is discussing the changing attitudes towards electric vehicles in the automotive sector. Initially, electric vehicles were seen as the sole path ahead, prompting numerous car manufacturers to adopt all-electric strategies with set deadlines.
However, the anticipated EV revolution has not unfolded as expected. Electric vehicles are initially more costly compared to combustion vehicles, and the projected range improvements have not been achieved as intended. Additionally, the insufficient funding for charging infrastructure has dissuaded many potential EV buyers from pursuing this option.
Harvick shares his own experience with buying an EV to further his point, saying, “I bought an EV. I bought one of those Ford [F-150] Lightnings and I’m like ‘I just want to see what it’s all about.’
“It’s fun to drive, but it won’t go far. I’m not taking it on a trip.”
One of the main reasons why many potential EV buyers are discouraged is due to the limited range of electric vehicles and the time-consuming charging process. Moreover, finding a functional charger can also be a challenge.
“Oh, there’s no limit to what we can do,” Harvick replied to his co-host’s statement about NASCAR’s potential to enhance its technology.
“However, I can assure you that NASCAR electric vehicle racing does not have a future.”
There is absolutely no chance that people are tuning in if there is no noise or smell of burning gas.
“I understand and acknowledge the effort put into it, but I wouldn’t recommend investing any further funds into it.”
Read next: Symonds: Electrification ‘not the only answer’ in F1 future
