In a pioneering collaboration aimed at pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle (EV) technology in motorsports, ABB and NASCAR have unveiled the Next-Gen-based NASCAR EV prototype at the 2024 NASCAR Chicago Street Race. This initiative marks ABB’s strategic entry into NASCAR IMPACT, a platform dedicated to driving sustainability initiatives across the sport.
The NASCAR EV prototype, developed in conjunction with Chevrolet, Ford, and Toyota, represents a significant milestone in NASCAR’s journey towards sustainability. Built on a modified Next-Gen chassis, this electrified stock car boasts three STARD UHP 6-Phase motors—one at the front and two at the rear—delivering power directly to all four specially designed Goodyear Racing Eagle tires. Anchored by a 78-kWh liquid-cooled battery, the powertrain can unleash up to 1,000 kW (1,341 horsepower) at peak performance, making it well-suited for road courses and short oval tracks.
One of the notable features of the NASCAR EV prototype is its regenerative braking system, which converts kinetic energy into power, enhancing its efficiency and performance on the track. The car’s body, resembling a generic Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV), is crafted from sustainable flax-based composite materials, aligning with NASCAR’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Ralph Donati, Executive Vice President of ABB, emphasized the partnership’s goal of leveraging ABB’s expertise in electrification and automation to support NASCAR’s ambitious sustainability goals. According to Donati, this collaboration will help “push the boundaries of electrification technology, from EV racing to long-haul transportation to facility operations.”
Eric Nyquist, NASCAR Senior Vice President and Chief IMPACT Officer, highlighted the significance of introducing the NASCAR EV prototype alongside the debut of NASCAR IMPACT. Nyquist stated, “There could not be a more optimal moment in time to announce our first IMPACT partner than in tandem with the debut of our prototype electric vehicle at the Chicago Street Race.”
NASCAR tapped ABB to help with the program due to its involvement in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, this partnership with NASCAR underscores its commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in motorsports.
 technology in motorsports, ABB and NASCAR have unveiled the Next-Gen-based NASCAR EV prototype at the 2024 NASCAR Chicago Street Race. This initiative marks ABB’s strategic entry into NASCAR IMPACT, a platform dedicated to driving sustainability initiatives across the sport.){kind=link}