In this episode of Electrify Podcast, Jarod DeAnda reunites with Ron Zaras, the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) record-breaker, who shares his automotive story with Hyundai’s EVs and his extensive racing experience. Zaras highlights his recent accomplishment of driving the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N to set a new record at Pikes Peak, highlighting the emerging potential of electric vehicles in high-performance racing. Additionally, Zaras reflects on his introduction to EVs in 2016 and how his perspective on electric and gas-powered cars evolved through his career and collaborations with legends like Ken Block.
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Ron Zaras: The Man Behind the Wheel
Jarod DeAnda opens the podcast with high praise for Ron Zaras, affectionately known as “Ron Car,” for his dynamic presence in the automotive world. Zaras’s automotive journey began with Harris Publications and included memorable experiences such as the early days of Gymkhana with Ken Block. Zaras recalls their first significant hangout at Irwindale in 2010, where their shared passion for cars and racing solidified a lasting friendship.
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Breaking Records at Pikes Peak
The highlight of Zaras’s recent achievements is his record-breaking performance at the 2024 Pikes Peak Hill Climb, where he drove the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N. Zaras describes the challenge and excitement of conquering one of America’s oldest and most demanding races in an electric vehicle. “This year for the 2024 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, I drove for the Hyundai Factory effort,” Zaras explains. “They brought four vehicles, two fully modded and two production vehicles. They wanted to tell a story and set a record.”
The Evolution of EVs in Racing
Zaras’s introduction to electric vehicles was eye-opening. His first significant experience with an EV was in 2016, during the FIA World Rallycross Championship in Norway. He recalls being astonished by the performance of Teslas, which were heavily subsidized in Norway. “The immediate torque, the first time you experience that, it’s like a pit in your stomach,” Zaras says, reflecting on the paradigm shift from slow, hypermiling vehicles to high-performance EVs.
Hyundai’s Role in the EV Revolution
Zaras praises Hyundai’s commitment to making EVs exciting to drive. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, which he drove at Pikes Peak, features dynamic handling and selectable all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive, making it a fun and versatile car. “It was my first major experience of throwing an EV around a racetrack in a competition setting, and it was a very, very eye-opening experience,” Zaras shares.
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A Balanced Perspective on EVs and Gas-Powered Cars
Despite his enthusiasm for EVs, Zaras remains a fan of gas-powered cars, stressing that there’s a place for both in the future. “I think there’s a car for every situation,” Zaras asserts. He believes that while EVs are ideal for city commuting and races like Pikes Peak, gas-powered cars will continue to have a significant presence in the automotive world.
The Legacy of Ken Block and the Future
Reflecting on the influence of Ken Block, Zaras expresses immense gratitude for the opportunities and experiences gained through working with Block and Hoonigan. He speaks fondly of the lessons learned and the amazing journey they shared. Zaras now channels this legacy into new projects, including his latest venture, The Drivers Era, with Vin Anatra. This clothing brand shares stories from the automotive world through its unique designs and experiences.
Ron Zaras Leads the Charge
Zaras is optimistic about the future of EVs and motorsport. He highlights the advancements in battery technology and the increasing number of charging stations as key factors that will drive the adoption of EVs. Zaras concludes with excitement about his upcoming projects, including a partnership with Hyundai and participation in the SRO TC America Championship.
As Zaras keeps setting new records and pushing the limits, he represents the spirit of a new era in automotive excellence.
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IMAGES: COURTESY OF RON ZARAS | ORIGINAL CONTENT FROM ELECTRIFY NEWS
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