Acura is set to make history this summer by introducing the first-ever EV pace car at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Scheduled for June 23, this iconic Race to the Clouds unfolds its 102nd edition with Acura celebrating a decade as its official pace car sponsor. To promote the experience further Acura will be showcasing the 2024 ZDX Type S SUV with pro-BMX athlete, car tuner, and amateur drifter Coco Zurita behind the wheel for the 12.42-mile hill climb.
Boasting nearly 500 horsepower and 544 lb. ft of torque, the all-electric ZDX Type S marks Acura’s maiden venture into the domain of all-electric vehicles. With features like dual-motor all-wheel drive, a low center of gravity, height-adjustable air suspension, performance-tuned adaptive dampers, and massive 15.6-inch Brembo™ front brakes with 6-piston calipers, it’s poised to set the pace on the challenging mountain course.
Recognized as the “Race to the Clouds,” the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb has been a cornerstone of American motorsports since its inception in 1916. Spanning 156 turns and starting at an elevation of 9,390 feet, the course ascends to the towering summit at 14,115 feet. Hailing from Santiago, Chile, Zurita brings a wealth of experience to the event, having excelled as a BMX athlete on the global stage.
His collaboration with Acura began with the custom 2023 Acura Integra showcased at the 2022 SEMA Show, followed by the debut of a 2024 Acura TLX Type S build at the 2024 Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.
Zurita’s background in amateur drifting and participation in the Unlimited AWD class at Global Time Attack further underscore his versatility behind the wheel. Acura’s participation as the official pace car sponsor for the 10th consecutive year underscores its commitment to innovation and performance.
Past entries, including the second-generation NSX in 2015 and a prototype TLX Type S in 2020, have showcased the brand’s dedication to pushing boundaries. In addition to the ZDX Type S pace car, Acura and Honda Racing Corporation USA (HRC US) will field two Integras in the 102nd running of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
Katherine Legge will pilot the HRC-developed Acura Integra Type S DE5 in the Time Attack 1 division, while Paul Hubers will helm the Honda of America Racing Team’s (HART) Acura Integra A-Spec in the Pikes Peak Open division.
With a starting price of $74,850 for the top-tier Type S, it’s a premium choice, but the good news is it qualifies for the $7500 federal tax credit. Similarly, both the rear- and all-wheel-drive A-Spec models, priced at $65,850 and $69,850, respectively, are eligible for the credit, offering exciting options for enthusiasts.
