The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, often referred to as “The Race to the Clouds,” is held annually in Colorado, attracting fans and drivers from all around the world. This prestigious event, which has been running since 1916, challenges drivers with its grueling course and high-altitude conditions. This year, a modified Tesla Model S EV made headlines by dominating the track record for production electric vehicles (EVs). The driver, Blake Fuller, CEO of Go Puck, impressively navigated the hill in his EV in just 11:48.
Modifications and Performance
The Tesla Model S used in the race was almost stock in its drivetrain, but significant modifications were made to enhance its performance. To reduce weight, the team opted for a smaller battery pack and gutted the interior to install a roll cage, ensuring safety in case the car veered off the treacherous track. These modifications allowed the team to shave off 800 pounds from the car’s weight, bringing it down to 4,000 pounds. Despite these changes, the car maintained its core electric drivetrain, showcasing the impressive capabilities of Tesla’s engineering.
The team’s efforts paid off as they managed to beat the previous production EV record by a full minute, securing the 65th overall position in the event. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the challenging nature of the Pikes Peak course.
The Challenging Course
The Pikes Peak course is 12.42 miles long and features more than 156 turns, making it one of the most demanding hill climbs in the world. The course starts at an elevation of 9,390 feet and climbs to 14,115 feet, gaining 4,725 feet in elevation. The average grade of the course is 7.2%, with some sections being even steeper. These conditions not only test the driver’s skill but also the vehicle’s performance and reliability.
In the case of the Tesla Model S, the team had to manage the car’s battery temperature carefully. The ice visible under the car in the images was used to cool the battery packs, ensuring they remained within optimal operating temperatures throughout the climb. This is crucial because high temperatures can significantly impact battery performance and longevity.
The previous record for a production electric vehicle was held by a Zero electric motorcycle. The fact that a four-wheeled EV like the Tesla Model S could surpass this record highlights the rapid advancements in electric vehicle technology. It also underscores the potential for EVs to compete in and even dominate traditional motorsport events.
Implications for the Future
The success of the Tesla Model S at Pikes Peak has broader implications for the future of electric vehicles in motorsport. It demonstrates that EVs are not only viable but can also excel in high-performance, demanding environments. This could pave the way for more electric vehicles to participate in various racing events, potentially leading to new categories and competitions specifically for EVs.
Moreover, the advancements in battery technology and vehicle design showcased in events like Pikes Peak can trickle down to consumer vehicles. As manufacturers continue to push the boundaries of what electric vehicles can achieve, everyday consumers can benefit from improved performance, range, and safety features in their own EVs.
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb serves as a proving ground for automotive innovation. The remarkable performance of the modified Tesla Model S, driven by Blake Fuller, is a testament to the potential of electric vehicles. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more impressive feats from EVs in the future.
via Electrek
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