VW has announced that it plans to run an electric prototype at next year’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in Colorado. The single dark teaser image we see here is all the detail that VW has offered up. We do know that the automaker thinks its offering will crush the EV prototype record for the race.
The car has lots of wild looking aero, something commonly seen on Pikes Peak racers. It has been a very long time since VW competed on Pikes Peak. The last time was back in 1987 and used a very crazy, custom car back then. That car was a dual motor turbo Golf.
History of VW at Pikes Peak
Volkswagen’s history at Pikes Peak is both fascinating and storied. The 1987 dual motor turbo Golf was a marvel of engineering for its time. It featured two engines, one at the front and one at the rear, providing an unprecedented level of power and control. This innovative design was a testament to VW’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology. The car, although not victorious, left a lasting impression on motorsport enthusiasts and engineers alike. The return of VW to Pikes Peak with an electric vehicle marks a significant milestone, highlighting the evolution of automotive technology from internal combustion engines to electric powertrains.
The Challenge of Pikes Peak
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, also known as “The Race to the Clouds,” is one of the most challenging and prestigious motorsport events in the world. The race covers a distance of 12.42 miles and includes 156 turns, starting at an elevation of 9,390 feet and finishing at the summit of Pikes Peak at 14,115 feet. The high altitude poses a unique challenge for both drivers and vehicles, as the thin air reduces engine power and affects aerodynamics. Electric vehicles, however, have an advantage in this environment as they do not suffer from the same power loss as internal combustion engines.
The video you can see below of that crazy Golf gives you a look at what the track used to look like. The entire Pikes Peak road is now paved. It’s also insanely narrow and has literal hundred foot drops off the side of the narrow two-lane. Pikes Peak racers are a special kind of crazy, it’s a harrowing drive at the roughly 20 mph speed limit.
The transition from a gravel to a fully paved road has significantly changed the dynamics of the race. While the gravel surface required a different driving technique and vehicle setup, the paved road allows for higher speeds and more precise handling. This change has made the race even more competitive and has attracted a new generation of racers and manufacturers eager to test their vehicles’ limits.
Electric Vehicles at Pikes Peak
Electric vehicles have been making a significant impact at Pikes Peak in recent years. The instant torque and consistent power delivery of electric motors make them well-suited for the demanding conditions of the hill climb. In 2018, the Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak, an all-electric prototype, set a new overall record for the race, completing the course in 7 minutes and 57.148 seconds. This achievement demonstrated the potential of electric vehicles in motorsport and solidified VW’s position as a leader in electric vehicle technology.
The upcoming electric prototype from VW aims to build on this success and further push the boundaries of what is possible with electric powertrains. With advancements in battery technology, aerodynamics, and vehicle dynamics, VW is poised to make a significant impact at next year’s Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
via Autoblog
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