Electric Race Car Presented by Westfield

As expected, a lot of the new production models and concept cars unveiled these days use some kind of green technology meant to reduce fuel consumption and save the planet. As the future seems to be electric, car manufacturers need to get their technology on the market. Predictions say electric vehicle sales will be quite important in the next few years.

Electric cars will not only serve as commuters, but will also be used as racecars. One of the best examples is Westfield Sportscars' iRACER, an all-electric race car designed for competitions. The car was designed by Elliott Hawkins, a graduate from the world renowned Royal College of Arts vehicle design course.

Westfield Managing Director, Julian Turner said: "The look is bold, and is 99% representative of the final production vehicle".

The list of materials used for the iRACER includes composites, aluminum, recyclable plastics and a stretched lycra skin over an aluminum framework to create a lightweight, aerodynamically efficient and low cost body.

Project Manager, Paul Faithfull commented: "The use of materials such as fabrics has limited scope for road use, but has major benefits for racing. Imagine being able to change your bodywork in a matter of minutes, with a new body stretched over the framework, changing the colour, sponsors or just effecting rapid repairs. It is also extremely light compared to almost all alternative materials."

The iRACER has two 40 kW electric YASA motors producing about 200 hp and 1000 Nm of torque powered by up to 11 48V sealed Lithium Ion Phosphate units. According to Westfield Sportscars, under race conditions the operational range is anticipated to be 50-60 miles.