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Ford Performance is gearing up for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with its F-150 Lightning SuperTruck. This event will serve as a critical testing ground for Ford’s electric powertrain advancements, highlighting the company’s commitment to pushing the limits of electric vehicle (EV) technology.
Key Highlights:
- Event: 102nd Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
- Vehicle: F-150 Lightning SuperTruck
- Driver: Romain Dumas
- Dates: Qualifying runs from June 18-20; Hill Climb on June 23
- Objective: Test and advance EV powertrain components in extreme conditions
The F-150 Lightning SuperTruck, derived from Ford‘s popular electric pickup, is set to undergo significant modifications in aerodynamics and power output to tackle the challenging 12.5-mile uphill course at Pikes Peak. This rigorous environment is ideal for testing electric powertrains, allowing Ford to refine components like motors, inverters, and battery packs, as well as improve software calibration and battery cell chemistry.
Ford has announced the participation of driver Romain Dumas, who will pilot the SuperTruck as competitor No. 150. This marks Ford’s second consecutive year of entering an electric vehicle in this prestigious competition. Last year, Ford’s Electric SuperVan 4.2, based on the E-Transit Custom Van, set a class record and achieved victory.
Additionally, Ford Performance is gaining valuable insights from other electric demonstration race vehicles, such as the Mustang Super Cobra Jet 1800 and the Mustang Mach-E 1400. These vehicles are crucial in exploring battery cell chemistry, heat management, and cooling. Ford’s efforts in hybrid powertrain development are also advancing, with the company’s planned return to Formula 1 in 2026 through a strategic partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing.
As Ford continues to innovate and test its EV technologies, the knowledge gained from extreme testing environments like Pikes Peak will directly influence the enhancement of its production vehicles, driving the future of electric mobility.
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