Ford hasn't stopped chasing the Pikes Peak Hill Climb record, and Ford has announced their 2024 entry model: the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck. The SuperTruck is Ford's latest electric race car demonstrator, aiming to do well in one of the world's most famous hill climbs, the Pikes Peak Hill Climb.
On June 23, Ford plans to have Pikes Peak record holder Romain Dumas in the car again. They are aiming to surpass the previous SuperVan 4.2 model, which won last year's Open Class.
"After a successful summit in 2023, I'm very excited to be working with this team again to drive this car and help explore the limits of what electric vehicles can reach on this legendary track." Dumas said. "In testing, the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck exceeded my expectations, so we were hoping for good weather and trying to create something really special."
Developed in collaboration with Ford Design and STARD Advanced Research and Development, the pickup truck is at the top of its game in terms of aerodynamic design. It is capable of generating up to 6000 lbs (about 2722 kg) of downforce at a speed of 150 mph (about 241 km/h).
The STARD UHP 6-phase motor appears to be the next generation of the motor used in last year's SuperVan, which uses three such motors, presumably configured with one front and two rear. These motors work in tandem with ultra-high-performance Li-Polymer NMC batteries to produce up to 1400 horsepower, which is a staggering number for any model. In addition, the car is equipped with carbon-ceramic brakes, Pirelli P-Zero tyres with forged magnesium wheels, and a fully customised internal suspension system, which further enhances the car's performance.
The 102nd Pikes Peak Hill Climb is about to take place. Models such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N are expected to break their own records, and the Acura ZDX is poised to make a big splash as the first all-electric official guide car in the event's history. Unfortunately, the 2,000-horsepower SuperVan will not be on the field this time.