FYI: NASCAR’s upcoming electric race car prototype not only promises eco-friendly performance but also boasts a sustainable design featuring flax fiber-reinforced plastic.
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## NASCAR’s Electric Race Car: Sustainability Beyond the Powertrain
NASCAR is innovating on multiple fronts with its cutting-edge electric race car prototype, ensuring that sustainability is integrated well beyond its powertrain. The car, first unveiled in July, features an eco-friendly body constructed from natural fiber reinforced plastic, utilizing flax fibers.
### Flax Fiber-Enhanced Construction
Developed by the Swiss company Bcomp, the body of this prototype leverages the lightweight and sustainable properties of flax fibers. Bcomp is renowned for producing sustainable materials predominantly from flax—a plant that thrives with minimal water and nutrients and can be harvested without chemical intervention.
### Industry Pioneers in Sustainable Materials
Bcomp has an impressive track record of supplying eco-friendly materials both within and outside the automotive sector. Notably, Porsche has been utilizing Bcomp’s flax fiber-reinforced plastics in some of its race cars since 2019, including the 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport MR. This puts NASCAR in good company and adds a layer of credibility to its sustainable endeavors.
### Technical Specifications and Prototype Evolution
NASCAR’s electric race car integrates a modified Next Gen chassis with steering, suspension, wheels, and brakes identical to the current NASCAR Cup Series car. Powering this vehicle is a 78-kwh battery connected to three electric motors, delivering a combined 1,341 horsepower. According to Pat DiMarco, manager at NASCAR and analytics for Ford Performance, this configuration isn’t suited for traditional race lengths. However, shorter tracks and races lasting 30 to 35 minutes may be an ideal format.
### Future Prospects
Though there is only one prototype at present and no concrete plans for launching an electric series, reports suggest that NASCAR is in the early stages of planning such an initiative. The current prototype offers a glimpse into the potential direction of NASCAR’s future, showing a commitment to exploring electric vehicle technology and sustainable practices.
## Conclusion
NASCAR’s venture into electric race cars, highlighted by its use of sustainable materials and innovative powertrain, signals a significant shift towards eco-friendly motorsport. While an official electric racing series may still be on the horizon, this prototype showcases what might be possible in the coming years.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
