Chevrolet unveiled the Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype ahead of this year’s Daytona 500.

“We continually look for ways to improve the combination of power, durability, and efficiency to transfer learnings from the racetrack to the showroom. Especially as we bolster Chevy’s consumer EV lineup,” said Eric Warren, executive director, global motorsports competition for General Motors.

Blazer EV.R NASCAR Prototype Features

The Chevrolet Blazer EV.R race car delivers over 1,300 horsepower through three six-phase electric motors. Each motor is capable of reaching 15,000 rpm. A 78-kWh liquid-cooled battery supplies power, according to Chevrolet.

Chevrolet plans to apply insights from this technology to its diverse lineup, which includes diesel, gasoline, and electric models.

Engineering and Aerodynamics

Chevrolet said it built the Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype on NASCAR’s Next Gen chassis and incorporated advanced suspension components. The race car features a programmable all-wheel-drive system and rides on Goodyear Racing Eagle tires.

GM Design collaborated with motorsports engineers to integrate styling elements inspired by the Blazer EV SS production vehicle.

“This program was a great opportunity with NASCAR to design a new crossover utility vehicle body and bring forward design elements from our Blazer EV SS,” said Phil Zak, executive director, Chevrolet Global Design. “The EV.R prototype offers lower and wider proportions and was designed with aerodynamics and performance in mind.”

Real-World Testing and Performance

GM engineers tested the Blazer EV.R at race pace recently at Carolina Motorsports Park in Kershaw, South Carolina.

“NASCAR and its manufacturer partners are passionate about emerging technologies,” said Brandon Thomas, NASCAR vice president, vehicle design. “With the Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype, Chevrolet and its engineers meshed new technologies with the NASCAR Next Gen platform.”

Chevrolet Blazer EV.R at Daytona 500

Justin Allgaier, Team Chevy driver and 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion, drove the prototype during testing and provided some insights.

“There are so many things you don’t think about until you’re in the car actually testing it,” said Allgaier. “I’m used to knowing my speed through gearing and listening to engine revs, so I had to totally change how I judge corner entry speed. With this platform we’re learning how to strategically adjust regenerative braking, which has a big impact on braking sections and cornering balance.”

Chevrolet paced the 67th Daytona 500 with the Blazer EV SS, a 615-horsepower model that accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds using Wide Open Watts.