With the rise of electric vehicles in the automotive industry, it was only a matter of time before enthusiasts started experimenting with DIY electric race cars. The Apex Cricket EV is a perfect example of what can be achieved with some basic mechanical skills and a lot of passion for motorsport.
Weighing just 1,700 pounds, the Apex Cricket EV is powered by a Nissan Leaf motor and a Chrysler Pacifica battery. This lightweight green machine is seriously quick around an autocross course, thanks to its 214 horsepower motor. Originally equipped with the Leaf’s one-speed transmission, the car had issues with power delivery and tire smoke at high speeds. To address this, a six-speed gearbox from a Nissan Maxima was installed, along with a limited-slip differential for better traction.
The suspension, steering, and brakes were sourced from a C5 Chevrolet Corvette, adding to the car’s performance capabilities. The battery pack, made up of 60-volt modules from the Chrysler Pacifica hybrid minivan, provides 16 kilowatt-hours of energy for around 100 miles of range on the street. Despite its racing pedigree, the Apex Cricket EV is street legal and can be driven anywhere.
What’s truly impressive about this project is the cost. With a budget of around $20,000, the father-son duo behind the Apex Cricket EV were able to build a competitive race car that has required minimal maintenance since its completion. Issues with power delivery were quickly resolved, and the car has been a reliable performer on the track.
In a world where motorsport can be prohibitively expensive, the Apex Cricket EV is a shining example of what can be achieved with creativity, resourcefulness, and a willingness to get your hands dirty. This homemade electric race car proves that you don’t need a massive budget to enjoy the thrill of racing – all you need is a passion for innovation and a love for pushing the limits of what’s possible in the world of electric vehicles.