Stock Nissan Leaf entered in Pikes Peak Hill Climb

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Unmodified Nissan Leaf entered in Pikes Peak Hill Climb

"With electric automobiles popping up like dandelions across the landscape of American driving, it's no surprise that they will be part of the field at the 89th Pikes Peak International Hill Climb on June 26."

So says the press release you'll find waiting for your prying eyes after the break. While it's true that we're not exactly surprised that an electric car will make its way up to the top of the historic hill – there was, after all, a dedicated electric vehicle class for 2010 – we are a little curious whether a completely stock Nissan Leaf has any chance of dethroning current EV Hill Climb record holder Ikuo Hanawa of Japan.

Certainly, Leaf driver Chad Hord knows what he's doing, as he currently pilots an off-road racing truck in the TORC series. In any case, we'll find out soon enough if the Leaf's 110 horsepower and 90-mile-per-hour top speed has the stuff to hang with the purpose-built EV racers; Hanawa will again contest the championship in his Concept two-wheel drive 2010 Custom Summit HER-02.

 

[KennyGS]

I'm assuming this is entirely an advertising ploy, and there is no chance of winning.

 

[dentrecords]

I'm assuming this is entirely an advertising ploy, and there is no chance of winning.

Conclusively. I am now slightly more aware of this Nissan Leaf, but no closer to actually purchasing one. Probably less so since it will simply serve as confirmation that it's not capable of being fast.