Volkswagen has unveiled a hardcore ID.4, which will compete in the NORRA Mexican 1000 race later this month in the Baja peninsula. While the model is the first production-based electric vehicle to enter the race, it has been extensively modified by Rhys Millen Racing.
In particular, the ID.4 1st Edition has
been equipped with an off-road focused suspension that features “rally-style
coil-over struts at all wheels and tubular lower control arms in the front and
boxed lower rear links.” The model has also been lifted approximately 2 inches
(51 mm), while its 19-inch alloy wheels have been replaced by 18-inch OZ Racing
wheels wrapped in Yokohama Geolandar A/T tires.
The changes don’t stop there as the
vehicle has been equipped with additional skid plates, rear window intakes, and
a raised radiator to improve approach angles and cooling capacity. The cabin
has also been stripped and outfitted with racing seats, a roll cage and
supplemental displays for showing key vehicle information.
One thing that hasn’t changed is the
vehicle’s powertrain, which features an 82 kWh lithium-ion battery pack as well
as an electric motor that develops 201 hp and 310
Nm of torque. This setup enables the standard model to have an EPA-estimated
range of 402 km, but EV charging stations aren’t exactly plentiful
in the Baja peninsula. To make up for that, Volkswagen will be using a biofuel
generator and a portable 50 kW fast charger.
The ID.4 will be driven by Tanner Foust,
who remarked “It’s exciting to be part of an ambitious challenge like this that
pushes the limits of electric vehicles.” Foust will be joined by Emme Hall and
Volkswagen noted their participation aims to “show the capabilities and
performance of an EV in an extreme environment.”
