After clinching second place at the renowned Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) in 2023, Ford is gearing up to surpass its previous performance in 2024. The American automotive giant is preparing to debut a special electric prototype of its Ford F-150 Lightning pickup at the upcoming event, known as the world’s highest motor race.
In a concise yet intriguing press release accompanied by a teaser video, Ford announced its return to the prestigious racing event with electric power for the second consecutive year.
The statement confirmed that Ford will present a new “Ford F-150 Lightning electric vehicle demonstrator” at the event, slated as entrant #150 for the June 2024 competition in Colorado, USA.
While details regarding the differences between the prototype and the showroom version of the F-150 Lightning remain undisclosed, it’s evident that the fully-sealed mountain road course utilized for the race won’t necessitate the off-road suspension featured in the F-150 Lightning Switchgear unveiled earlier in January 2024.
Ford’s primary objective seems to be outpacing its 2023 performance and potentially setting a new overall record, a sentiment echoed by Ford CEO Jim Farley, who shared the news across his social media platforms.
Ford’s latest announcement comes on the heels of its electrifying success with the ‘SuperVan 4.2’, a Transit van equipped with four electric motors generating a staggering 2000hp (1491kW).
This powerhouse set a closed-wheel lap record at Mount Panorama, Bathurst, marking a remarkable feat during the opening weekend of Australia’s V8 Supercars championship earlier this year.
Previously, the SuperVan secured second place at Pikes Peak in 2023, utilizing a three-motor setup producing 1400hp (1041kW) to conquer the challenging 156-turn, 19.99km ascent, culminating at an altitude of 14,115 feet (4302m).
Renowned driver Romain Dumas, a four-time Pikes Peak victor, piloted the SuperVan at both Bathurst in 2024 and Pikes Peak in 2023, setting an Open Class Pikes Peak record of 8:47.682 last year.
However, this impressive achievement fell short of the current outright record of 7:57.158, established by Dumas himself in an electric Volkswagen race car back in 2018.
Ford’s strategic silence regarding record attempts ahead of the 2023 Pikes Peak event mirrors its approach before setting the Bathurst lap record in February 2024.
The shift to the F-150 for the 102nd installment of the Pikes Peak event in June 2024 introduces yet another addition to Ford’s lineup of electric ‘demonstrators.’ These bespoke project vehicles serve as platforms for showcasing the company’s cutting-edge technology through promotional activities.
Preceding the F-150 Lightning prototype, Ford unveiled the F-150 Lightning Switchgear in January 2024, following the SuperVan 4.2 and an earlier iteration, the SuperVan 4.0. The Mustang Mach-E 1400 electric SUV, denoting its impressive 1400hp (1091kW), underscores Ford’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric performance.
According to Ford Performance’s global head of motorsports, Mark Rushbrook, promotional projects like the SuperVan not only serve as showcases for electrified powertrain technology but also contribute to the development of electric vehicle technology for showroom models.
Rushbrook highlighted the importance of factors such as aerodynamics, stating that advancements in this area can lead to reductions in battery size for road-going electric vehicles, subsequently lowering costs and weight.
The SuperVan is scheduled to make appearances at the Adelaide Motorsport Festival on 16-17 March and will also feature at the 2024 Formula One Australian Grand Prix on 22-24 March.
While Ford, along with other automakers like General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Aston Martin, and Renault, has adjusted its electric vehicle sales targets, it remains committed to advancing electric technology.
This dedication is evidenced by its participation in events like the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, where the qualifying rounds are set for 18-20 June, with the main event taking place on 23 June 2024.