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With rapidly evolving technology and advancements in motorsports, it hasn’t taken long for the rise of electric vehicles. Now, this trend is slowly but steadily making its way into the motorsport world. Already, there are motorsport series like Formula E, MotoE, and Extreme E. The World Rally Championship is also using hybrid engines, while the Rallycross has gone full electric. The only series not to be bitten by the electric bug are IndyCar and NASCAR.

However, it is interesting to note that some NASCAR teams are employing electric technology. A fine example is the Team Penske organization, which is using electric car technology in a unique manner. Apparently, the electric version of the car is being used as a pit stop practice car. Recently, a short clip of the car being driven around in the factory area made rounds on social media. The most interesting thing about the video was that the car pretty much sounded like any other electric car.

Team Penske’s electric pit practice car.
by u/Andrew_P_88 in NASCAR

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Will the sport go down the electric route like Formula E and other series?

Without a doubt, NASCAR’s top brass have been toying with the idea of going electric. However, they would need the approval of the teams and drivers to really implement it. After all, this is a big step and there will be traditionalists who will miss the sound of roaring engines.

Back in 2012, NASCAR moved from engines with carburetion to electronic fuel injection. That was on the back of a change in 2011 to the use of Sunoco Green E15 fuel, which is high octane and blended with 15 percent bioethanol. One thing is for sure, NASCAR is constantly trying to innovate and move with the times.

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NASCAR fans reacted to the video clip of the electric NASCAR car

Whenever it comes to electric race cars, the biggest gripe has always been the sound. The same was true for this electric NASCAR stock car, with one fan saying, “Sounds like a commuter train going away. Makes sense to use electric if it’s only for crew reps. No need to burn fuel money and can be practiced indoors without worrying about exhaust fumes.”

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There were some who approved of the use of electric car technology, calling it a “200 IQ move.”

Another fan also commented on the prospect of being the practice pit stop car driver. They compared the “unrealistic dream job” to being an MLB bullpen catcher and a 3rd string quarterback for an NFL team.

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On the other hand, there were more people criticizing the sound, comparing it to a scratched disk in an old gaming console, a PS2 startup menu, and an intro to a prog rock song.

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