Ford’s electric Supervan is getting an upgrade to conquer the challenging 2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
In the UK, Ford’s Blue Oval division has a tradition of transforming Transit vans into powerful Supervans. This time, for the fourth iteration, Ford has decided to go fully electric. The project was initially unveiled as the Ford Pro Electric Supervan at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where Ford announced its intentions to take on Pikes Peak. However, some modifications were needed to prepare the Supervan for the task.
Now known as the Ford Supervan 4.2 (referring to the second version of the fourth van), this modified electric van has received an exterior makeover to accommodate new aerodynamic enhancements necessary for the high altitudes of Pikes Peak. The course stretches from 4,725 feet above sea level to 14,115 feet and features 156 turns, making downforce optimization crucial.
The most noticeable changes to the Supervan 4.2 are the addition of a large carbon-fiber rear spoiler and front splitter, which generate over 4,400 pounds of downforce at speeds of 150 mph, according to Ford. Additionally, the Supervan has undergone a weight reduction, although Ford hasn’t disclosed the final weight. The bodywork, based on the European-market E-Transit Custom, sports a fresh livery specifically designed for Pikes Peak.
Similar to the original build, Ford collaborated with Austrian rallying firm STARD for the motors of the Supervan 4.2. However, the number of motors has been reduced from four to three, resulting in a power output decrease from the previous 1,972 horsepower to approximately 1,400 horsepower. The Supervan retains its all-wheel-drive configuration, with one motor powering the front wheels and two motors powering the rear wheels. This setup was determined to be the most effective for conquering Pikes Peak.
During the Pikes Peak race, certain corners restrict the power that can be transmitted to the front wheels, explained Mark Rushbrook, global director of Ford Performance Motorsports. Adding a fourth motor would have only increased weight and energy consumption to produce power that couldn’t be consistently utilized.
To harness the immense power when approaching corners, the Supervan 4.2 features a revised 600-kilowatt regenerative braking system paired with carbon-ceramic rotors. These components are situated behind magnesium forged wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tires.
Behind the wheel of the Supervan 4.2 will be Romain Dumas, the current Pikes Peak record holder. In 2018, the French driver set an unbeaten time of 7 minutes and 57.148 seconds driving the Volkswagen ID.R special. Although the Supervan isn’t expected to break records, it is anticipated to achieve an impressive time.
The 2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is scheduled for June 25. Ford proudly highlights its history with the event, dating back to 1916 when a Model T successfully completed the climb in 28 minutes and 3 seconds.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Pikes Peak Hill Climb
What is the Ford Supervan 4.2?
The Ford Supervan 4.2 is an electric van created by Ford’s UK division. It has been modified with enhanced aerodynamics and performance features to participate in the 2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb.
How much downforce does the Supervan 4.2 generate?
According to Ford, the Supervan 4.2 generates over 4,400 pounds of downforce when traveling at 150 mph. This is achieved through the addition of a large carbon-fiber rear spoiler and front splitter.
How much power does the Supervan 4.2 have?
The Supervan 4.2 features a power output of approximately 1,400 horsepower. It utilizes three motors – one powering the front wheels and two powering the rear wheels – providing an optimal setup for tackling the challenging Pikes Peak course.
Who will be driving the Supervan 4.2 at Pikes Peak?
The Supervan 4.2 will be driven by Romain Dumas, the current Pikes Peak record holder. In 2018, he set an unbeaten time of 7 minutes and 57.148 seconds driving the Volkswagen ID.R special.
Will the Supervan 4.2 break any records at Pikes Peak?
While the Supervan 4.2 is not expected to break records, it is anticipated to achieve a quick time. The focus of this project is to demonstrate the capabilities of an electric van in a demanding hill climb race like Pikes Peak.
More about Pikes Peak Hill Climb
- Ford Performance Official Website
- Pikes Peak International Hill Climb Official Website
- STARD Official Website
- Volkswagen ID.R Official Website
- Goodwood Festival of Speed Official Website
5 comments
Ford’s electric Supervan 4.2 gonna tear up Pikes Peak! 1,400 hp, crazy downforce, nd sleek new look gonna make it a sight to behold. Can’t wait to watch the race!
The Supervan 4.2 gonna rock Pikes Peak! With 1,400 hp nd loads of downforce, it’s gonna dominate dem corners. Romain Dumas gonna push it to da limit!
Ford’s electric Supervan 4.2 gonna be a beast at Pikes Peak! 1,400 hp nd all dat downforce gonna make it fly. Romain Dumas gonna show ’em how it’s done!
Ford’s electric Supervan 4.2 is takin’ on Pikes Peak! It’s got power, downforce, nd Romain Dumas at the wheel. Get ready for an electrifying race!
omg dis Supervan 4.2 sounds totally epic! it’s gonna take on Pikes Peak wit over 1,400 hp nd 4,400 lbs of downforce. can’t wait 2 c it in action!