As electric power continues to reshape the automotive world, motorsports are following suit. From Formula E to hybrid-powered IMSA GTP race cars, electric propulsion is no longer a novelty—it’s becoming the norm. Now, NASCAR is taking steps toward electrification, and Chevrolet has just revealed its entry: the Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype.
Debuting alongside the Blazer SS Pace Car, this electric race car is Chevrolet’s answer to Ford’s Mustang Mach-E NASCAR Prototype, marking a new era of EV performance on the track.
Blazer EV.R: NASCAR’s Electric Future
Next-Gen NASCAR Meets Electric Innovation
The Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype is built on the NASCAR Next Gen platform, meaning it shares key components with the Chevrolet Camaro Cup Car and Ford’s electric NASCAR prototype.
Key Specs & Features:
- Tri-Motor Powertrain: 1,300 horsepower
- Battery Pack: Liquid-cooled 78 kWh unit
- Drivetrain: Single front motor, two rear motors
- Chassis & Aero:
- Unified NASCAR Next Gen chassis
- Common aerodynamics (splitter, wing, diffuser, undertray)
- Standardized wheels and brakes
What Makes the Blazer EV.R Unique?
While mechanically similar to Ford’s electric NASCAR prototype, the Blazer EV.R stands out with distinct Chevrolet styling, including:
Unique front nose, hood, and rear panel
Exclusive side body treatment
Decal-based lighting designs
Interestingly, this version of the Blazer EV is a two-door coupe, as NASCAR’s standardized greenhouse forces all manufacturers to use a two-door layout, similar to Cup Series race cars.
Could this inspire a real-world Camaro-style electric Blazer coupe? Given Ford’s success with the Mustang Mach-E, Chevrolet might just consider it.
Blazer EV SS Pace Car: Leading the Daytona 500 Field
A Production EV Showcased at NASCAR’s Biggest Event
Joining the Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype is the Blazer EV SS Pace Car, set to lead the field at the Daytona 500. While not yet available for sale, this is the first public demonstration of the Blazer EV SS in action.
Blazer EV SS Performance & Features:
- Powertrain: 615 horsepower, 650 lb-ft of torque
- Brakes: Front Brembo brakes for high-performance stopping power
- Technology:
- 17.7-inch infotainment screen
- GM Super Cruise hands-free driving
The Blazer EV SS Pace Car joins the Corvette Stingray and Silverado RST as part of NASCAR’s pace vehicle lineup, leading the Xfinity Series and Craftsman Truck Series races during the Daytona 500 weekend.
Chevrolet’s Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype is another sign that NASCAR is serious about electrification. As Ford and Chevy showcase their high-performance EV race cars, the transition to electric NASCAR racing seems inevitable.
While the Blazer EV SS Pace Car previews the production EV, the Blazer EV.R race car hints at a future where electric vehicles compete at the highest levels of stock car racing.
The question now is: When will NASCAR officially launch an all-electric series?
FAQ’s
What is the Chevrolet Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype?
The Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype is an all-electric race car based on the NASCAR Next Gen platform, featuring a 1,300-hp tri-motor setup and a 78 kWh battery.
How much horsepower does the Blazer EV.R have?
The Chevrolet Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype produces 1,300 horsepower from its tri-motor electric powertrain.
What is the Blazer EV SS Pace Car?
The Blazer EV SS Pace Car is a production-based electric SUV with 615 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, set to lead the Daytona 500 field.
Is NASCAR moving toward electric racing?
Yes, with the introduction of electric prototypes from Chevrolet and Ford, NASCAR is exploring the future of EV racing, though no official series has been announced yet.
When will the Chevrolet Blazer EV SS be available for sale?
Chevrolet has not announced an official release date, but the Blazer EV SS is expected to launch soon following its public debut at the Daytona 500.