Ford has upgraded its electric Supervan in preparation for the 2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Known for turning Transit vans into hot-rodded Supervans, Ford’s UK division decided to make the fourth Supervan an all-electric vehicle. The project, named the Ford Pro Electric Supervan, made its debut at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed before Ford announced its plans to take on Pikes Peak.
In order to tackle the demanding Pikes Peak course, which climbs from 4,725 feet above sea level to 14,115 feet, the Supervan underwent several modifications. Rebranded as the Ford Supervan 4.2, the van received an exterior overhaul to accommodate new aerodynamic aids to compensate for the thinner air at higher altitudes. The modifications included a large carbon-fiber rear spoiler and front splitter, generating more than 4,400 pounds of downforce at speeds of 150 mph. The Supervan also underwent a weight reduction, although the exact weight has not been disclosed. Additionally, the bodywork of the Supervan, which is based on the European-market E-Transit Custom, was given a new livery for the Pikes Peak event.
In terms of power, the Supervan 4.2 features three motors sourced from Austrian rallying firm STARD. This is a reduction from the previous version, which had four motors and produced an impressive 1,972 horsepower. The current version of the Supervan generates around 1,400 horsepower, with one motor powering the front wheels and two motors powering the rear wheels. This setup was determined to be the optimal configuration for tackling the challenging corners of the Pikes Peak course.
Mark Rushbrook, the global director of Ford Performance Motorsports, explained that certain corners at Pikes Peak limit the power that can be transmitted through the front wheels. Adding a fourth motor would have only added weight and consumed more energy without adding any consistent power. To optimize performance in the corners, the Supervan 4.2 is equipped with a revised 600-kilowatt regenerative braking system, paired with carbon-ceramic rotors. These braking components work in conjunction with magnesium forged wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tires.
The driver responsible for piloting the Supervan 4.2 at Pikes Peak is Romain Dumas, the current record holder for the event. In 2018, Dumas achieved a still-unbeaten time of 7 minutes and 57.148 seconds driving the Volkswagen ID.R special. While the Supervan is not expected to set a new record, it is anticipated to post an impressive time.
Ford has a longstanding history with the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, dating back to 1916 when a Model T successfully completed the climb in 28 minutes and 3 seconds. The 2023 Pikes Peak event is scheduled for June 25.
In conclusion, Ford has upgraded its electric Supervan, now known as the Supervan 4.2, to compete in the 2023 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The modifications include aerodynamic aids, weight reduction, and an optimal configuration of three motors. These enhancements, combined with a revised braking system and a skilled driver, position the Supervan 4.2 to perform well at the prestigious event. As Ford continues its legacy at Pikes Peak, it showcases its commitment to electric performance and innovation.
