This weekend, Ford Performance is racing up Pikes Peak to break last year’s record with a new vehicle. Instead of their electric superfan, driver Romain Dumas will drive a powerful F150 Lightning Supertruck. Ford has a long history at Pikes Peak dating back to 1916, when a Model T took 28 minutes to climb it. Today, the route has 156 turns in 12.42 miles, and modern vehicles are much faster than ever.
Key Highlights
The F-150 Lightning Supertruck is the result of a collaboration between Ford Design and STARD Advanced Research and Development. It is the result of the success of Ford’s 2023 Supervan 4.2, which has set several new records
This high-performance truck has been carefully engineered to prioritize both speed and efficiency. It has advanced aerodynamics to maximize performance, including features such as a triple-element front wing, headlight duct, hood duct, front dive-plane, side diffusor, rear diffusor, and multi-element rear wing.
Underneath, it runs on three advanced STARD UHP 6-phase motors and uses high-powered Li-Polymer NMC batteries for top performance. This setup allows the supertruck to achieve impressive stats: it can generate 6,000 pounds of downforce at speeds of up to 150 mph and delivers over 1,400 horsepower.
In short, the F-150 Lightning Supertruck aims to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and aerodynamic design for supreme performance
Ford’s Legacy at Pikes Peak
- Ford’s history at Pikes Peak dates back to 1916 with a Model T.
- This year, Ford aims to surpass its 2023 record of 8 minutes 47.682 seconds set by the SuperVan 4.2.
Ford’s Cutting-Edge Innovation in Performance and Design
The F-150 Lightning Supertruck reflects Ford’s dedication to innovation and performance. It features a powerful three-motor setup built by STARD that delivers over 1,400 horsepower from its advanced Li-Polymer NMC battery.
Its striking aerodynamic design includes a distinctive red, white and blue livery, as well as aerodynamic elements such as a large front splitter, swan-neck rear wing, ducts instead of headlights, side diffusors, hood ducts, louvers and an oversized rear diffusor. These improvements help the Supertruck create 6,000 pounds of downforce while reaching speeds of 150 mph.
It runs on Pirelli P-Zero tires mounted on magnesium-forged wheels for excellent grip, and the carbon-ceramic brakes provide strong stopping power for tough hill climbs.
High-Performance Hardware
The Supertruck uses special Pirelli race tires on lightweight magnesium wheels, which help it grip the pavement when climbing hills. Unlike a regular F-150 Lightning, it has a completely custom inboard suspension system, making it very different in design and performance. This truck is not only impressive; it would be amazing to see it in action.