Later this month, a 100 percent electric Nissan Leaf will compete with in the 89th Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Off-road truck racer Chad Hord will be behind the wheel when the nearly factor-spec Leaf will take on the challenging Hill Climb.
Like the standard production Leaf, the Pikes Peak Leaf will be powered by a lithium-ion battery composed of 48 compact modules and a high-response 80kW AC synchronous motor that generates 107 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. However, it will lose a number of components, such as seats and carpets, to make room for safety equipment including a roll cage and racing seats and safety harnesses.
“This is another innovative way to showcase the fun-to-drive nature of the Nissan LEAF and highlight that 100 percent electric vehicles perform very well in demanding situations like the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb," said Ron Stukenberg, senior manager, Marketing Communications, Motorsports. "The instant torque available from the electric motor makes the LEAF a fun car to drive and the abundance of corners on the hill climb will give Chad a chance to take advantage of that torque.”
This event will mark the first time a Leaf EV has competed in a motorsports competition. Nissan has already showcased a performance-tuned Leaf — the Nissan Leaf NISMO RC — at the New York Auto Show. The RC was designed as a real racer, complete with its full carbon fiber monocoque bodywork. Both vehicles show that Nissan is eager to dispel notions electric vehicles aren't suitable for racing.
"Nissan is committed to taking an innovative approach to showcasing the Nissan LEAF and Pikes Peak is an excellent venue to do just that," added Stukenberg. "Nissan LEAF owners are fully embracing this new world of zero-emission technology. We believe the same potential exists in the motorsports world, and we're proud to be one of the first on the grid."
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