NASCAR's Commitment to a Sustainable Future
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| NASCAR's Bold Move Toward Electric Racing: Exploring a Prototype SUV with Sustainable Flax-Based Bodywork Image credit: Green Car Report |
In April 2023, NASCAR announced its first long-term carbon emissions goal, marking "the beginning of a new era in sustainability for America's top motorsport." This ambitious plan aims to reduce NASCAR's carbon footprint to zero across its core operations by 2035. As part of this initiative, NASCAR is considering the introduction of electric race cars, which could dramatically change the landscape of the sport. A prototype electric SUV race car unveiled in July is a significant step in this direction.
Innovative Flax-Based Body Panels from Bcomp
One of the standout features of the electric NASCAR prototype is its use of sustainable bodywork developed by Swiss firm Bcomp. Unlike traditional race cars that rely on carbon fiber, the prototype's body panels are made from flax, a material with an 85% smaller carbon footprint while maintaining a similar level of stiffness. This stiffness is partly achieved through an inner structure inspired by the vein structure of leaves. The flax fibers are grown in Europe without competing with food crops, making them a more environmentally friendly alternative.
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| NASCAR Electric Car Prototype Image credit: Green Car Report |
The Prototype's Powertrain and Performance
The NASCAR EV Prototype isn't just about sustainability; it also boasts impressive performance capabilities. The electric SUV features an all-wheel-drive system powered by three six-phase motors—one in the front and two in the back—potentially generating over 1,300 horsepower. A 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack and regenerative braking system further enhance the vehicle's suitability for road courses and short oval tracks. This combination of power and efficiency could make the electric SUV a formidable competitor on the race track.
The Shift to Electric and SUV Body Styles
The introduction of an SUV body style in NASCAR is nearly as significant as the shift to electric powertrains. While this represents a departure from the traditional loud, V-8 engine race cars, it aligns more closely with the current vehicle lineups of major automakers. The electric SUV prototype could easily be adapted to resemble popular models like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Chevrolet Blazer EV, or Toyota bZ4X, in keeping with NASCAR's tradition of racing cars that fans can purchase.
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| NASCAR Electric Car Prototype Image credit: Green Car Report |
Conclusion: NASCAR's Electric Future on the Horizon
NASCAR has not yet provided a timeline for when it might officially introduce electric race cars, but the unveiling of the electric SUV prototype hints at a future where sustainable practices and high-performance racing go hand in hand. As NASCAR continues to explore this new frontier, the integration of innovative materials like flax-based body panels and the shift to electric powertrains could set the stage for a more sustainable and exciting era in motorsports.
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