Ford Performance is at it again. The high-performance unit is teasing its new Ford F-150 Lightning-based EV SuperTruck ahead of its official debut. To showcase its abilities, Ford’s new electric SuperTruck will compete in the upcoming Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
Based on its best-selling electric pickup, Ford’s Performance team tweaked the Lightning-based EV SuperTruck to boost power and aerodynamics.
Ford says running test electric vehicles at Pikes Peak enables it to “push the boundaries of EV powertrains in the most extreme conditions.” The team then relays what it learns to improve Ford’s production vehicles.
“The performance-minded rolling laboratories” help EV motor, inverter, and battery pack development. It’s also used for software calibration and battery cell chemistry.
Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, or “The Race to the Clouds,” is viewed as one of the most intense hill climbs in the world.
The event takes place in Colorado and consists of a 12.42 mi (29.99 km) trek uphill with 156 turns. Competitors climb 4,720 ft to reach the 14,115 ft summit.
A new Ford Lightning-based EV SuperTruck is coming
Ford revealed the first teaser for its new Lightning-based EV SuperTruck in a new video (shown below) Tuesday. Although you can’t see much, the performance EV is shown wearing several performance upgrades, including a massive rear wing. You can also see a new rear diffuser on the back.
Romain Dumas, wearing the No. 150, will drive the new electric SuperTruck. In 2018, Dumas set a new record (7:57.148) driving a Volkswagen ID.R.
This will be the second year Ford has tested a new EV at Pikes Peak. Last year, Ford’s 1,400 hp Electric SuperVan 4.2 (based on the Ford E-Transit) set a new class record in 8:47.682.
Ford has shown several high-performance EVs recently, including the F-150 Lightning Switchgear. The all-electric pickup was “built for off-road performance” as Ford’s latest EV demonstrator. Ford also revealed the Mustang Cobra Jet 1800 and Mustang Mach-E1400.
Hyundai is also looking to set a new record with its IONIQ 5 N competing at Pikes Peak. The event takes place June 18 to 20. The hill climb follows on June 23. Check back soon for more details.