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R021 Widebody Syndicate Release
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Pinnacle Ascent

R021

Pinnacle Ascent

Series City Regular Cars
Category Circuit
Platform 2020 Tesla Model Y
Era Post-2020 Digital Era

The Pinnacle Ascent reimagines the 2020 Tesla Model Y as a dedicated Pikes Peak Time Attack contender, radically transformed for mountain ascents. Its mid-engine repositioning optimizes weight distribution, while bespoke widebody panels accommodate massive 355mm tires and advanced cooling channels. The integration of sidepod radiators with roof-mounted intakes and a rear transaxle cooler speaks to a holistic approach in managing thermal loads at altitude, ensuring consistent power delivery and component longevity under extreme conditions. Aerodynamics are aggressively tailored with a deep front splitter and dual dive planes generating critical downforce for steep switchbacks, complemented by a large adjustable dual-element wing perched high on twin pylons. The flattened hood with a central air channel and an extended rear hatch with an integrated diffuser complete a clean yet purposeful silhouette. This build strikes a balance between minimalist aesthetics and technical aggression, embodying a full-spec race machine engineered for the demanding gradients of Pikes Peak.

Pinnacle Ascent blueprint

Technical Dossier // R021

Track

Designed exclusively for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, the build addresses the unique challenges of high-altitude racing with widened track widths and robust suspension geometry. The reinforced double-wishbone front and multilink rear setups provide stability and compliance over uneven surfaces and off-camber corners, delivering consistent grip and driver feedback throughout the relentless ascent.

Body Modifications

Mid-engine layout with relocated motor cluster and battery pack
110mm wider front fenders with chamfered edges and box flare arches
Sidepods with vertically stacked radiators extending 430mm longitudinally
Extended rear hatch by 95mm integrating diffuser and cooler louvers
Reinforced double-wishbone front and multilink rear suspension

Aero Components

140mm forward-projecting front splitter with dual horizontal dive planes
Large dual-element adjustable carbon wing on 820mm tall twin pylons
Roof-mounted 300mm wide intake ducting for battery and brake cooling
Integrated rear diffuser with four vertical strakes each 95mm tall

Aero

Aerodynamic elements focus on generating downforce and managing airflow for high-altitude efficiency. The front splitter, extended 140mm forward, works in tandem with dual dive planes to produce ground-effect suction critical for uphill grip. Roof-mounted intakes channel air to internal radiators and battery coolers, while the large dual-element wing on tall pylons maximizes rear downforce without compromising flow to the integrated diffuser and rear louvers, resulting in a cohesive aero package tuned for steep climbs.

Wheel and Tire Setup

18x12.5-inch Forgeline GA3R wheels front and rear
355/40 tires optimized for off-camber grip and compliance
Front and rear track widened by 180mm and 185mm respectively

Wheels

Forgeline GA3R wheels in an 18x12.5-inch sizing front and rear accommodate massive 355/40 tires engineered for off-camber grip and compliance. The choice of these wheels and tires supports the widened track and aggressive camber angles, maintaining tire contact patch integrity on Pikes Peak’s variable terrain while managing heat dissipation effectively.

Stance

The stance is aggressively wide with front and rear track increases of 180mm and 185mm respectively, creating a planted, purposeful profile. The raised flares and box arches provide clearance for the wide tires while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. Suspension tuning further supports a balanced, responsive posture geared toward precise handling on steep, technical slopes.

Powertrain Concept

Mid-mounted electric dual motor cluster with rear transaxle
Sequential gearbox for amplified power delivery and control
Enhanced battery cooling via roof intake and sidepod venting

Engine

The build repositions the electric dual motor cluster to a mid-engine configuration, coupled with a rear transaxle featuring a sequential gearbox. This arrangement improves weight distribution and torque vectoring, essential for the rapid directional changes and steep gradients encountered at Pikes Peak. Enhanced cooling systems ensure thermal stability of both motors and battery, maintaining peak output in thin air.

Drivetrain

Power is delivered through a rear transaxle optimized for hillclimb demands, enabling precise torque management and rapid response. The sequential gearbox amplifies control fidelity, allowing the driver to navigate tight switchbacks with confidence. The drivetrain layout balances efficiency with aggressive performance, tailored specifically for the elevation and technicality of Pikes Peak.

Fabrication Notes

Custom widebody panels with chamfered edges for aerodynamic efficiency
Boxed rear haunches to accommodate transaxle and cooling components
Flat hood with recessed 270mm x 100mm central inlet channel
Integrated louvered cooling ducts recessed into rear quarter panels

Hillclimb Madness: Widebodies for the Vertical Warriors

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