Chevrolet is introducing its Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype. Chevrolet calls it an "example of the brand continuing to test, learn, and explore new technologies that could be applied to both race programs and production cars. " Its specs certainly impress: it delivers over 1,300 horsepower from three six-phase electric motors that instantly rev up to 15,000 rpm, powered by a 78-kWh liquid-cooled battery.
“While we will continue to race our proven and winning V8 technology in NASCAR for years to come, we continually look for ways to improve the combination of power, durability, and efficiency to transfer learnings from the racetrack to the cased, especially as we bolster Chevy’s consumer EV lineup,” said Eric Warren, executive director, global motorsports competition for General Motors.
Chevrolet Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype with livery. Credit: Chevrolet.
Chevrolet says exploring new technologies allows the brand to apply learnings for vehicles that end up in the showroom.
“Motorsports is a test bed for innovation, and a training ground for our engineers — one that allows Chevrolet to try out new technologies in a fast-paced environment against the best competition,” Warren added.
The Blazer EV.RBuilt is built on NASCAR’s Next Gen chassis and suspension components. It features a programable all-wheel drive system and rides on Goodyear Racing Eagle tires. Chevrolet says it worked closely with NASCAR and other manufacturers on the parameters and technical elements of the prototype.
Chevrolet Silverado RST, Chevrolet Blazer EV SS and Corvette Stingray pace vehicles on track at Daytona International Speedway. Photo: Chevrolet.GM Design worked together with motorsports engineers to give the Blazer EV.R styling features inspired by the Blazer EV SS production vehicle - which paced the 67th DAYTONA 500 this past Sunday. The 615-horsepower Blazer EV SS is the quickest SS model Chevy has ever produced, delivering 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds with Wide Open Watts.
“This program was a great opportunity with NASCAR to design a new crossover utility vehicle body and bring forward design elements from our Blazer EV SS,” said Phil Zak, executive director, Chevrolet Global Design. “The EV.R prototype offers lower and wider proportions and was designed with aerodynamics and performance in mind.”
Engineers tested the NASCAR prototype last month at Carolina Motorsports Park in Kershaw, South Carolina.
“NASCAR and its manufacturer partners are passionate about emerging technologies, and working to remain on the forefront of innovation,” said Brandon Thomas, NASCAR vice president, vehicle design. “With the Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype, Chevrolet and its engineers meshed new technologies with the NASCAR Next Gen platform – and the result is a powerful, exciting vehicle that we believe fans will love when they see it at Daytona International Speedway.”
2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion Justin Allgaier poses with the Chevrolet Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype at Carolina Motorsports Park. Photo: Chevrolet.Justin Allgaier, Team Chevy driver, 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion drove the prototype during testing.
“There are so many things you don’t think about until you’re in the car actually testing it,” said Allgaier. “I’m used to knowing my speed through gearing and listening to engine revs, so I had to totally change how I judge corner entry speed. With this platform we’re learning how to strategically adjust regenerative braking, which has a big impact on braking sections and cornering balance."
To read the inside story on designing the NASCAR prototype, visit GM's website here.
Photo Credit: Chevrolet