Chevrolet has introduced its groundbreaking Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype ahead of the 67th running of the DAYTONA 500, marking a bold step in the automaker’s pursuit of integrating electric vehicle technology into motorsports. The Blazer EV.R exemplifies Chevrolet’s commitment to innovation, using NASCAR as a proving ground for advancements that could eventually shape production vehicles.
“While we will continue to race our proven and winning V8 technology in NASCAR for years to come, 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.
The prototype delivers over 1,300 horsepower through three six-phase electric motors, capable of revving up to 15,000 rpm. Powering this impressive machine is a 78-kWh liquid-cooled battery, reinforcing Chevrolet’s commitment to pushing the limits of EV technology.
Built on NASCAR’s Next Gen chassis and suspension components, the Blazer EV.R features a programmable all-wheel drive system and Goodyear Racing Eagle tires. GM Design worked closely with motorsports engineers to incorporate styling elements from the Blazer EV SS, ensuring the prototype maintains a striking visual identity while maximizing aerodynamics and performance.
“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.”
The Blazer EV.R underwent rigorous testing last month at Carolina Motorsports Park in Kershaw, South Carolina. Team Chevy driver and 2024 NASCAR Xfinity Series Champion Justin Allgaier had the opportunity to test the vehicle, offering key insights into its handling and braking dynamics.
“There are so many things you don’t think about until you’re in the car actually testing it,” Allgaier said. “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’s presence at the 2025 DAYTONA 500 will be further solidified as the Blazer EV SS, a 615-horsepower electric vehicle, is set to pace the race on Sunday, February 16. This high-performance model can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds with Wide Open Watts mode, making it the fastest SS model Chevrolet has ever produced. Actor Alan Ritchson will serve as the honorary pace car driver.
In addition, the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray will be the official pace car for the Xfinity Series United Rentals 300 on Saturday, February 15, while the Chevrolet Silverado RST will pace the Craftsman Truck Series Fresh From Florida 250 on Friday, February 14.
“As NASCAR and its manufacturer partners continue to explore emerging technologies, Chevrolet has demonstrated its leadership by blending electrification with the Next Gen platform,” said Brandon Thomas, NASCAR vice president of vehicle design. “The result is a powerful, exciting vehicle that we believe fans will love when they see it at Daytona International Speedway.”
With the introduction of the Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype, Chevrolet signals its intent to shape the future of motorsports while continuing to offer diverse powertrain options to consumers. This pioneering initiative underscores the brand’s commitment to innovation, performance, and sustainability in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.
