Ford is set to make a comeback at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with an electric vehicle this year, aiming to continue its impressive showing of EV technology at the renowned race.
The automaker officially announced in a press release that they will be introducing a new custom-built demonstrator based on the Mustang Mach-E at the 2025 Pikes Peak Hill Climb, scheduled for late June. This follows the previous EV demonstrators based on the F-150 Lightning pickup truck and Transit van that participated in the 2024 and 2023 races, respectively.
While Ford has not disclosed specific details about the Mach-E-based race car yet, they have confirmed that it will be driven by Romain Dumas, who also piloted the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck and the SuperVan 4.2 in previous years. Dumas currently holds the overall record at Pikes Peak, clocking in at 7:57.148 in the Volkswagen ID.R back in 2018.
2018 Volkswagen ID R Pikes Peak race car
Although Dumas was unable to break his own record in 2024, he did manage to set the fastest time of the event, clocking in at 8:53.533 with the powerful SuperTruck. The SuperTruck boasted a 1,600-hp propulsion system and an advanced aerodynamics package generating 6,000 pounds of downforce at 150 mph to enhance traction on the challenging road to the 14,115-foot summit.
Ford F-150 Lightning SuperTruck at 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb
The 12.5-mile course at Pikes Peak is a public road with a significantly low speed limit throughout the rest of the year.
Electric vehicles have been gaining traction at Pikes Peak due to their advantage over traditional internal combustion engines in the high-altitude environment. While gasoline engines lose power in the thinner air, electric motors remain unaffected.
While setting closed-course records may not directly impact everyday car buyers, racing plays a crucial role in promoting car enthusiasm and establishing a positive image for EVs among enthusiasts who value cars beyond basic transportation. Pikes Peak serves as a platform where EVs can compete against gasoline-powered vehicles and emerge victorious, a trend that Ford aims to continue in 2025.