- Lucy Block races Pikes Peak to honor Ken Block, raise 43 Institute awareness.
- SIERRA ECHO EV: Powerful electric vehicle for Pikes Peak, SIERRA Cars and Hypercraft collaboration.
- Block family’s Pikes Peak tribute showcases resilience, supports 43 Institute.
In an exciting announcement from the Electrify Expo, Lucy Block, renowned professional rally driver and wife of the late Ken Block, has declared her participation in the upcoming Pikes Peak International Hill Climb (PPIHC) on June 25. Lucy’s entry not only aims to honor her late husband but also to raise awareness for the 43 Institute, a non-profit organization close to Ken’s heart. Teaming up with SIERRA Cars and Hypercraft, Lucy will race in the Unlimited Class, piloting the cutting-edge SIERRA ECHO EV.
A Tribute to Ken Block’s Legacy
Lucy Block expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to race at Pikes Peak, stating, “My biggest accomplishments have always been being a mother to my kids and a strong, supportive wife. Being given the opportunity to drive to the summit for Ken at Pikes Peak is an honor. He gave so much to the action sports community. Driving Pikes Peak International Hill Climb gives us a way to carry Ken’s spirit forward and do something he was excited to do himself. We are eager to be able to use this opportunity to create awareness around 43 Institute, and celebrate my husband’s love for motorsports and innovation.”
SIERRA ECHO EV: A Revolution in Electric Motorsports
In her debut at Pikes Peak, Lucy will commandeer the SIERRA ECHO EV, a vehicle that represents the perfect fusion of cutting-edge technology and high-performance racing. Developed in collaboration between Hypercraft, an EV mobility powertrain manufacturing startup, and SIERRA Cars, a prominent race vehicle manufacturer, the ECHO is built on SIERRA Cars’ race-proven chassis and powered by Hypercraft’s electric drive system.
A Family Affair
Adding an emotional touch to the event, Lucy’s 16-year-old daughter, Lia Block, also a talented rally driver, will make an untimed tribute run in the iconic pink Porsche 911 “Hoonipigasus.” This very car was driven by Ken less than a year ago before his tragic passing. Lia’s participation pays homage to her father’s indelible mark on the automotive world.
Industry Support and Encouragement
Expressing their enthusiasm for Lucy’s venture, SIERRA Cars Founder and Professional Racecar Driver Cole Powelson said, “We are so honored to take part in this year’s PPIHC with the Block family. Shortly after Ken’s passing, I was speaking with Lucy and realized how important it was to her that she remains in motorsports with her family. Getting Lucy involved at Pikes Peak seemed like the place where we could make the most positive impact. Standing on the summit of Pikes Peak on race day is one of the greatest pleasures I’ve ever known. To be able to share that with Lucy and Lia is the thing I’m looking forward to most this year.”
Hypercraft Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer Jonathon Miller echoed the sentiment, saying, “Ken has been a big inspiration to many of us at Hypercraft, for decades. The opportunity to work with Lucy, and to be the EV powertrain provider for the SIERRA ECHO that will take her up this legendary mountain, is a huge honor, to say the least. We’re excited to see the Block family inspire the next generation of performance culture, just like their dad did.”
Unleashing the SIERRA ECHO EV’s Potential
The SIERRA ECHO EV provides an exceptional driving experience that prioritizes the driver, offering unparalleled adaptability on the road. Its design incorporates a chassis built from tubular DOM steel, emphasizing a single-seat layout. Equipped with rally-inspired steering, suspension, and braking systems, this vehicle excels in conquering various terrains, including sand, ice, and asphalt.
Vehicle Specs:
- Hypercraft-supplied drive system delivering 300 bhp of peak power (225 kW) and 368 ft/lbs (500 Nm) of peak torque at a maximum of 12,000 RPM, which is enough power to propel the car to 120 MPH.
- Energy storage also comes from Hypercraft via three 18.6 kWh batteries.
- A Sadev gear reduction with LSD transfers power through a set of RCV axles.
- Suspension is handled by a dual wishbone front design with 10” or 12” of adjustable wheel travel and Zbroz 2-way adjustable shocks.
- Wilwood 4 piston calipers squeezing vented rotors and a hydraulic handbrake easily bring the 1,350 lb ECHO to a stop.
- On the inside, the driver-focused interior consists of an AEM digital display, a Sabelt steering wheel, seat and six-point, race-certified harness.
Supporting a Worthy Cause
Hypercraft, SIERRA Cars, and Block are teaming up to support the Block family’s non-profit organization, the 43 Institute. To raise funds for this noble cause, a portion of the proceeds from the sale of seven “Block Edition” cars will be donated to the organization, with the goal of reaching $43,000. These exclusive vehicles, which are race-ready and adorned with the same Block-tribute livery graphics as Lucy’s Pikes Peak car, will hold a special place in the hearts of racing enthusiasts. To add a personal touch, each of the seven vehicles will be hand-signed by members of the Block family, making them truly unique and collectible.
A Game-Changer for Pikes Peak
Powelson highlighted the advantages of electric vehicles (EVs) in this renowned race, stating, “EVs are very well-suited for Pikes Peak, because they don’t suffer a loss in power due to altitude, like gas-powered vehicles. Fans of Pikes Peak will be excited to learn the same model of car Lucy is racing is the same car we’re offering for purchase. This is a historical first for Pikes Peak racers, fans and car manufacturers competing in the race.” This statement is sure to excite fans of Pikes Peak, as they witness the debut of the SIERRA ECHO EV and witness the seamless blending of performance and sustainability.
An Inspiring Legacy
Ken Block’s legacy as an action sports star and motorsports enthusiast continues to inspire millions worldwide. Through Lucy and Lia’s participation in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, his impact will be immortalized. Their courage, resilience, and determination serve as a beacon for the next generation of performance culture enthusiasts.
The announcement of Lucy Block’s entry into the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is met with anticipation and excitement. Her tribute to her late husband Ken Block, alongside her daughter Lia’s participation, will undoubtedly captivate motorsports fans across the globe. The collaboration between SIERRA Cars and Hypercraft in developing the groundbreaking SIERRA ECHO EV further solidifies the race’s significance in the realm of electric motorsports. As the Block family honors Ken’s memory and raises awareness for the 43 Institute, their journey to the summit of Pikes Peak promises to be an extraordinary and emotional event that will be remembered for years to come.
For more information, please visit www.43i.org, www.hypercraftusa.com, and www.sierra-cars.com.
For sales inquiries, please contact cole@sierra-cars.com.
For media inquiries, please contact sonia@gallerypr.com.
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