Ford Performance is set to make a resounding return at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, known as ‘America’s Mountain’, in a bid to further its research and development of electric powertrains. This time around, the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck, a cherished Ford electric pickup, will be vying for top honours at the 102nd iteration of this esteemed event, which is sponsored by Gran Turismo and is scheduled to take place at the end of June.
Leading up to the event, the Ford Performance team will be directing its efforts towards enhancing the aerodynamics and power output of the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck, equipping it to conquer the demanding 12.5-mile (20km) uphill course. The company firmly believes that the Pikes Peak setting serves as an ideal proving ground for the testing of electric powertrains, thereby allowing them to push the boundaries of EV technology in severe conditions and subsequently integrate their discoveries into production vehicles.
Ford views these high-performance test vehicles as ‘rolling laboratories’ that will contribute significantly to the development of various components, such as motors, inverters, and battery packs. Furthermore, the vehicles will provide invaluable insights into software calibration and battery cell chemistry, thereby advancing Ford’s expertise in electric vehicle technology.
This will not be Ford’s maiden foray into the Pikes Peak competition with an electric test vehicle. Last year, the company’s 1,400hp Electric SuperVan 4.2, which was based on the E-Transit Custom Van, not only established a class record but also emerged victorious.
While further details about the SuperTruck are yet to be divulged, Ford has offered a tantalising glimpse of what is to come. The SuperTruck, steered by Romain Dumas, will compete as No. 150 during the qualifying run in Colorado Springs, Colorado from June 18-20, with the Hill Climb event scheduled for June 23.
In addition to the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck, Ford Performance is leveraging insights from other electric demonstration race vehicles, such as the Mustang Super Cobra Jet 1800 and Mustang Mach-E 1400. This strategic move will aid the team in gaining a deeper understanding of battery cell chemistry, heat generation, and cooling.
Ford’s unwavering commitment to spearheading electric vehicle technology is evident as the company continues to break new ground and make significant advancements in the field of electric powertrains. In light of the automotive industry’s transition towards electric vehicles, Ford’s steadfast dedication to participating in revered events like the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and investing substantially in electric vehicle technology is indeed laudable.