This Electric NASCAR Prototype Just Hit the Streets of Chicago
NASCAR fans witnessed history in the heart of Chicago as a fleet of high-powered electric vehicle prototypes took to the track ahead of the Grant Park 165. For the first time ever, electric race cars from Chevrolet, Ford, and ABB hit the 2.2-mile course, giving fans a glimpse of what the sport’s future might look like.
The EV showcase, held Sunday morning, featured three cutting-edge prototypes driven by current and former NASCAR drivers.
Former Cup Series driver David Ragan returned to the streets in a Ford Mustang Mach-E EV prototype, while rising stars Brent Crews and Rajah Caruth piloted ABB’s custom EV prototype and a Chevy Blazer EV.R, respectively.
The event marked the latest milestone in NASCAR’s ongoing push toward sustainability.
In 2024, the sport partnered with electrification leader ABB to launch NASCAR Impact, a platform dedicated to reducing carbon emissions and modernizing operations. The EV prototype project—developed by the same engineers behind the Next Gen car and NASCAR’s Le Mans entry—represents a serious commitment to innovation.
Under the hood, the all-wheel drive prototypes are anything but quiet performers. Powered by a 78-kWh liquid-cooled battery and three STARD UHP 6-phase motors, they produce up to 1,000 kW of peak power. Regenerative braking and sustainable body materials make them as efficient as they are powerful.
Fans were able to witness the prototypes up close during static displays before the morning exhibition laps. As they zipped around the tight turns of downtown Chicago, the cars made little noise but left a big impression.
C.J. Tobin, NASCAR’s director of vehicle systems, said the goal is to “demonstrate the capabilities of these vehicles” and offer fans a tangible look at the future of racing.
ABB Vice President Chris Shigas added that the showcase was also about “encouraging better conversations about energy” and inspiring younger generations through technology.
Whether or not electric stock cars will ever replace the roar of combustion engines remains to be seen. But this weekend’s showcase proved one thing. NASCAR is no longer standing still. It’s charging ahead.