NASCAR racing isn’t about to go full EV, at least not yet, but those that run the series, and the manufacturers who participate are clearly thinking about the future.
With that in mind, Ford recently revealed its Mustang Mach-E NASCAR prototype, a demonstrator designed to show what electric racing might look like. And despite its rather unconventional looks, this racer isn’t too far removed from current NASCAR standards. For instance, the Mach-E demonstrator has suspension components, brakes, steering, and wheels currently in use in the NASCAR Cup Series.
Ford didn’t reveal any power numbers, but said the Mach-E demonstrator has three electric motors, along with a 78-kWh battery. It also features a full carbon fiber tub.
For context, current NASCAR Cup Series cars are powered by a 5.86-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine that produces 670 horsepower and 530 lb-ft. of torque on tracks two miles long or smaller. On tracks bigger than two miles, such as Daytona and Talladega, NASCAR rules restrict output to 510 horsepower. The reduction is for safety reasons, according to NASCAR.