Ford is heading back to Pikes Peak with an electric Mustang Mach-E race car, building on its recent string of EV performances at America’s most famous hill climb.
The automaker announced Thursday it will bring a specially-modified Mach-E demonstrator to tackle the legendary mountain course in June 2025. This follows Ford’s recent EV entries — a high-performance F-150 Lightning in 2024 and a souped-up Transit van in 2023.
Racing veteran Romain Dumas will be behind the wheel. The French driver already knows his way around Pikes Peak — he holds the course record of 7:57.148, set in Volkswagen’s ID.R electric racer back in 2018.
While Ford hasn’t revealed specs for the modified Mach-E yet, their previous entries hint at serious performance potential. Last year’s Lightning SuperTruck packed a 1,600-horsepower powertrain and generated a massive 6,000 pounds of downforce at 150 mph — helping Dumas secure the fastest time of 8:53.533.
The 12.5-mile course presents unique challenges.
Electric vehicles have a natural advantage at Pikes Peak, where the 14,115-foot summit’s thin air significantly reduces power output from traditional combustion engines. Electric motors, however, maintain full power regardless of altitude.
These record attempts serve a larger purpose beyond pure competition. While most drivers won’t be racing their EVs up mountains, success at iconic venues like Pikes Peak helps shift perceptions about electric performance. It’s particularly meaningful when EVs compete directly against — and beat — traditional gasoline-powered racers.
Ford’s continued commitment to the event suggests they’re eager to showcase the Mach-E’s capabilities on one of racing’s most demanding stages. The automaker clearly sees value in proving electric vehicles can deliver thrilling performance while tackling extreme challenges.
The annual race transforms a normally sedate public road into one of motorsport’s most daunting challenges. For 364 days a year, tourists slowly wind their way up the mountain under strict speed limits.
