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Motorsport

This is the first official EV NASCAR, and it’s packing all of *1,341bhp*

The crossover body will also share plenty in common with the current Next Gen cars, albeit with upgraded chassis, steering and suspension components

Published: 09 Jul 2024

With the world of motorsport doing its bit to clean up the planet, NASCAR is the latest division to make the push by previewing what its future all-electric competitor could look like. And yes, that is a crossover body, in case you wondered. But more on that in a second… let’s first talk mechanical details.

The powertrain is a triumvirate of six-phase motors - one at the front and two at the rear - which work in tandem with a 78kWh liquid-cooled battery to send an estimated 1,341bhp to all four Goodyear Racing Eagle tyres. Regenerative braking will also play a big role in these prototypes. 

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Admittedly, it will be strange to watch a NASCAR race where the sound of drivers arguing will be louder than the cars themselves. Oh well.

Right, now we can talk exterior design, which could just make the crossover class more appealing from a general standpoint. From bonnet clips and wheels that are positioned well within the arches, to the huge rear wing and low-squat body position, it’s hard to argue against the funk appeal.

The livery is also pretty wild, with the various sponsorship logos worked around a black/white theme that incorporates red bolts of electricity to break up the paintwork.

The body itself is made from a ‘sustainable flax-based composite’ that shares plenty in common with the current Next Gen racers. Though these new prototypes will feature modified versions of the chassis, steering and suspension. Should be relatively quick, then.

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What do we reckon, readers: a worthy replacement for the Next Gen cars of today?

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