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Speed, Legacy, and Innovation: Sierra Echo EV Block Edition

EVBG STAFF . February 20, 2024 . Electric Vehicle Features
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Racing Into the Future

Photos by the EVBG and Sierra Teams

In the heart of Colorado’s iconic Pikes Peak, history was etched anew on June 25, 2023, as racing wonder Lucy Block took the wheel of the Sierra Echo EV Block Edition, a masterpiece powered by Hypercraft, at the legendary Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. This electrifying debut marked a milestone in the transformation of classic cars into electric ones, and it captured the essence of a family legacy, the spirit of innovation, and the power of giving back.

The Sierra Echo EV is a single-seater electric buggy. The car is powered by a 18.6-kWh battery pack and produces 300 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. It has a top speed of 120 mph.

The Echo EV Block Edition shows Sierra’s relentless pursuit of excellence. Born from the team’s extensive chassis engineering and racing experience, this electric racer was designed to redefine speed and agility. From the ground up, it was built to conquer any terrain and leave competitors in the dust. But Sierra’s vision didn’t stop at speed. With an electric motor at its core, the Echo EV promises greater power, handling, reliability, and safety, making it accessible to both seasoned Sierra enthusiasts and newcomers to the brand.

The Echo EV Block Edition shows Sierra’s relentless pursuit of excellence.

A Legacy Continues

Lucy Block’s entry into the cockpit of the Sierra Echo EV Block Edition marked a historic moment, solidifying the Block family’s connection with racing excellence. The limited-edition tribute vehicles, numbering only seven, pay homage to the Block family’s legacy, and part of the proceeds supports the Forty Three Institute (43i), a foundation committed to empowering underprivileged racers. These vehicles showcase a custom-designed livery, aerodynamic wing, and race-ready specs that embody the perfect blend of artistry and engineering.

Adrenaline Meets Electric

The Sierra Echo EV Block Edition is more than just a looker; it’s a powerhouse. Equipped with a Cascadia iM-225 motor and a three 6.2 kWh Hypercraft battery packs combined for 18.6 kWh total energy storage, this beast churns out 300 bhp and accelerates to speeds of up to 120 mph. Its efficient power transfer, Sadev gear reduction, and reliable braking system make it a force to be reckoned with, ensuring safety even in the most challenging conditions.

Lucy Block, wife of the late Ken Block, is an accomplished rally driver in her own right. She has competed in the American Rally Association National championship, earning top-10 class finishes. In 2023, she took on a new challenge: racing the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in an electric car.

The Sierra Echo EV boasts a dual wishbone front suspension design, offering 10- to 12-inch adjustable wheel travel and Zbroz two-way adjustable shocks. Inside, it features an AEM digital display and Sabelt racing components, including a racing-certified six-point harness and an immersive driving seat. These elements contribute to its outstanding performance and driver-centric design.

Lucy Block’s journey into the world of electric racing represents not just a shift in the racing industry, but a testament to the power of innovation and determination.

Chasing the Dream: Lucy’s Journey

Lucy Block’s journey to the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb was nothing short of an adventure. She had to contend with a 2:00 am wake-up call, a tornadic thunderstorm, and the challenges of a rookie qualifier. Balancing power and precision in her electric racer on a track with 156 corners and an altitude of 5,555 feet was no small feat. Yet, with the support of her dedicated Sierra crew, Lucy proved herself as a true professional. This historic racing debut wasn’t just about the Sierra Echo EV Block Edition. It was about the human adventure, the technical hurdles, and the strategies employed to overcome them. Sierra’s relentless pursuit of perfection and Lucy Block’s unwavering determination pushed the boundaries of electric racing. The Sierra Echo EV, with its global distribution and street-legal status, represents a significant step forward in the transition to electric vehicles.

As Sierra continues to evolve, the company’s focus remains on expanding its product range and business. Lucy Block’s journey into the world of electric racing represents not just a shift in the racing industry, but a testament to the power of innovation and determination.


Sources

HypercraftUSA.com
Sierra-Cars.com

SPECS

Sierra Echo EV Block Edition

  • Cascadia Motion iM-225 motor and inverter
  • 225kW/300 bhp peak power
  • 500Nm/368 ft-lbs peak torque
  • Maximum 12,000 rpm
  • Reach speeds up to 120 mph
  • Gross vehicle weight: 1,350 pounds

Transmission

  • Sadev gear reduction

Braking System

  • Wilwood 4-piston calipers
  • Vented rotors
  • Hydraulic handbrake
  • Reliable stopping power

Energy Storage

  • Three 6.2 kWh Hypercraft battery packs (18.6 kWh total)

Suspension

  • Dual wishbone front design
  • 10- or 12-inch adjustable wheel travel
  • Zbroz two-way adjustable shocks

Driver-Focused Interior

  • AEM digital display
  • Sabelt racing components

A Cause Worthy of His Memory

Ken Block’s passion for racing and his commitment to the community were evident in his contributions to the sport. In his honor, a substantial portion of each Sierra Echo EV Block Edition sale, totaling $43,000, will be donated to the Forty Three Institute (43i), a foundation that empowers aspiring racers with limited resources.