The Mexican 1000 rally is the Daytona of off-road racing. Beginning in 1967 and founded by the same people who began the National Off-Road Racing Association (NORRA), off-road enthusiasts from around the world all envy those who are fortunate enough to participate in this event. However, this year one particular contestant is getting lots of attention. The SRI EV1 is an all-electric open wheeled beast, capable of delivering 535 HP and 750 ft-lbs of torque. Additionally, it houses 40 kW of electric power when fully charged, enough to run an average household for about a week.
Built by SRI, SRD, and EV West this vehicle provides not only raw power but also a different experience for racers while driving. Due to it being an electric vehicle its torque is almost instant. Through an Evnetics Soliton 1 DC motor controller, power flows to two 9'' Netgain WarP motors and through a Mendeola S4D sequential gearbox straight to the tires. Furthermore, the quiet nature of electric vehicle designs provides riders with an experience unlike any other off-road racer. Ripping through the desert roads riders will hear dust being kicked up and rocks being thrown around. Mechanical components such as brakes, valves, and gears, which are normally drowned out by the roar of the engine, are also capable of being heard.
“This is a monumental undertaking that has been 18 solid months in the making. Our entire team is excited about what we are stepping forward to do. We are confident that our upcoming Mexican 1000 capabilities demonstration will generate future battery sponsorship to allow the ability to 'hot swap' multiple battery packs and complete entire races in the near future,” stated SRI founder, Jeffrey Smith.
Currently, the vehicle is being powered by 138 China Aviation Lithium Batteries in two hot swappable battery packs. As mentioned by Smith, their goal at the Mexican 1000 was not only to perform well but to demonstrate the electric vehicle's capabilities while getting their names out there. By this same time next year, it is possible that they will not be the only electric vehicles competing in this race. In addition, in can be expected that their range on this vehicle will be expanded enough to compete more strongly with their competition.
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