Nissan Leaf will compete in Pikes Peak race 06/06/2011
The Nissan Leaf will be entering the annual Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, a competition normally reserved for high-end sport cars and mammoth machines powered by massive engines.
A few months ago, Nissan revealed the Nissan Leaf NISMO RC, a carbon-fiber version of the Leaf that looks more like a race car than an EV. Though the car is built for competition, Nissan has instead opted to simply enter a production version of the Leaf with no modifications into the race. The car will be driven by off-road truck racing champ Chad Hord.
The Leaf won't be trying to take the title from sports cars - it'll be competing against other electric vehicles, which should even the playing field somewhat. Regardless, Nissan feels that the Leaf's electric motor ultimately gives it an advantage in this type of competition, which consists of some famously steep uphill curves.
"The instant torque available from the electric motor makes the LEAF a fun car to drive and the abundance of corners on the hill climb will give Chad a chance to take advantage of that torque," said Ron Stukenberg, senior manager of marketing communications.
Fans can watch the Leaf race to the top on June 26th.