Chevrolet has officially unveiled the Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype, offering a glimpse into the electrified future of motorsport. The high-performance electric race car, based on NASCAR’s next-generation EV chassis, is set to debut at the 67th running of the DAYTONA 500 this weekend.
Developed by General Motors’ senior design team—including Marc Mainville, Sam Zhao, and Adam Riccobelli—the Blazer EV.R prototype reflects a balance between Chevrolet’s vision for an electrified racing future and NASCAR’s performance constraints. The initial design vision was a longer, lower, and wider concept with aggressive aerodynamic features, including a stylized forged carbon fiber rear wing and diffuser, along with real LED lighting elements. However, the final prototype adheres to NASCAR’s standardized control chassis.
“This is a lot closer to the production Blazer EV SS,” said Mainville. “We’re showcasing the essence, the vision of a high-performance version of the Blazer EV.”
The design process involved collaboration with NASCAR and rival manufacturers, ultimately resulting in a 1,300-horsepower machine that meets strict aerodynamic requirements. Riccobelli emphasized the challenge of blending style with performance, noting that aerodynamics played a crucial role in shaping the final product.
“The whole car is an aero consideration,” Riccobelli explained. “The hardest part is including nicely designed sections and surfaces while hitting those aero numbers.”
Digital design and aerodynamic testing tools streamlined the process, allowing designers to refine the body’s surfaces until they achieved the optimal balance of aesthetics and efficiency.
Race fans can witness the Blazer EV.R NASCAR prototype and its vision concept on display at Daytona International Speedway during the highly anticipated DAYTONA 500 weekend.
