Ford’s New 1,360-HP Racer Will Blow NASCAR Fans Away

Ford has introduced an all-electric racecar prototype set to capture the attention of NASCAR fans, to the name of the Mustang Mach-E NASCAR.

Revealed on January 30, it forms part of a groundbreaking lineup from the automaker that also includes the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck and SuperVan 4.2. This reveal continues Ford’s tradition of innovation, similar to the Mustang Mach-E 1400, as the company integrates electric technology into its strong history of motorsport success.

Ford’s experience in motorsports is extensive, with involvement in NASCAR since the 1950s. The company is even making a return to the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2027, which includes the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, and Formula 1 as it joins Red Bull for 2026.

Ford’s interest in exploring electric avenues is clear, aligning with the world’s growing interest in electrification, demonstrated by NASCAR’s introduction of a 1,300-horsepower electric prototype in 2024.

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Ford’s new creation incorporates parts from an existing Cup Series car, borrowing elements like suspension, braking systems, steering components, and wheels. The car is built for safety and lightness too, with a full carbon fiber tub, and its appearance is similar to the standard Mach-E, albeit with some bold changes, such as an internal cage structure and a substantial rear wing.

Interestingly, this prototype features a two-door design, diverging from the standard four-door setup of the road-going car.

Beyond its unique design, the Mustang Mach-E NASCAR prototype boasts a 78-kilowatt-hour battery, larger than the standard model’s but still smaller than its long-range counterpart. The vehicle’s powerhouse comprises three electric motors, allowing for impressive performance with outputs of 1,360 horsepower in qualifying mode, though it scales back to 816 horsepower in race mode.

Weighing about 4,000 pounds, this version of the Mach-E dwarfs its consumer counterpart, the Mustang Mach-E GT, which is the most powerful model available to regular drivers.

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The impact of this electric marvel on NASCAR could be profound. Traditionally known for its powerful engines, the sport may face challenges introducing electric vehicles that lack the thunderous sounds of large-displacement V8 engines.

Some enthusiasts might question whether the sport can maintain its soul with quieter cars, but Ford seeks to bridge this gap and educate NASCAR fans about the possibilities of these all-electric cars, fostering interest and perhaps encouraging acceptance.

David Ragan, a former NASCAR driver, has been integral to the testing of this prototype, ensuring it performs well in various racing conditions.

Ford has tested the vehicle at Martinsville Speedway, known for oval racing, and Carolina Motorsports Park, focusing on its road course capabilities, demonstrating its versatility and reliability.

The Mach-E NASCAR prototype’s design incorporates NASCAR’s Next-Gen architecture, revised to use a modified Ford Mustang Dark Horse chassis. Added lightweight carbon fiber components mix with stock Cup Series parts, creating a marriage of NASCAR’s heritage with Ford’s electric technology.

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Ford’s venture into high-performance electric vehicles features models like the SuperVan 4.2 and Super Cobra Jet 1800, continuing the development of an entire line of electrified performance cars. This mirrors trends seen in other racing series like Formula E and Extreme E.

While plans for an official race appearance remain to be confirmed, the Mach-E NASCAR prototype will likely appear in exhibitions, demonstrations, and special events across the globe.

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