Pikes Peak Thunder

Built exclusively for the Pikes Peak Hill Climb, this Tahoe handles rapid elevation changes and tight, high-altitude switchbacks with precision. The wide track and ultra-sticky 350-section tires deliver exceptional grip, while the adjustable suspension keeps the car stable over mixed surfaces. Aerodynamic elements generate significant downforce without sacrificing cooling, essential for sustained performance on the demanding 12.42-mile course.

Front-engine to mid-engine conversion relocating V8 behind front seats
Shortened front overhang by 300mm with cabin shifted rearward
Wheelbase reduced by 120mm via front axle relocation
Widened front track by 210mm and rear by 270mm for ultra-wide tires

Sharply tapered front fenders with integrated triangular aero vanes
Sidepods with 450mm long concave air intakes feeding intercoolers
Stepped rear diffuser tunnels extending 340mm behind rear axle
Ultra-high 920mm single-element rear wing with multiple vertical endplates

Aerodynamics are optimized for extreme downforce and efficient cooling, featuring sharply chamfered front arches with integrated aero vanes directing airflow through intercooler ducts. Long concave sidepod intakes channel air to mid-mounted radiators, while a stepped diffuser and an ultra-high rear wing generate significant rear-end stability. Vertical endplates on the wing enhance lateral grip, crucial for maintaining control through Pikes Peak’s turbulent mountain air.

Work Wheels CR Kiwami 18x12 front
Work Wheels CR Kiwami 19x14 rear
350-section Toyo Proxes R888 hill climb tires front and rear

The car rolls on massive Work Wheels CR Kiwami forged wheels, sized 18x12 up front and a staggered 19x14 at the rear to accommodate enormous 350-section Toyo Proxes R888 tires. This setup maximizes mechanical grip and stability, essential for the aggressive cornering and rapid directional changes of hill climb racing.

Pikes Peak Thunder’s stance is aggressive and purposeful, with a ride height varying from a low 85mm on smooth surfaces to 140mm over rougher sections. The widened track and stretched haunches create a planted look, while the progressive dampers and reinforced suspension provide the balance between compliance and control necessary for the mountain’s challenging terrain.

Mid-mounted V8 engine with visible turbo plumbing through sidepods
Rear-mounted radiator system cooled by roof intake duct (500mm x 175mm)
Turbocharged forced induction optimized for high-altitude performance

The build features a mid-mounted V8 engine equipped with twin turbos, whose plumbing snakes through large sidepods designed for maximum airflow. The forced induction system is tailored for high-altitude performance, where air density drops, maintaining power delivery throughout the climb. Heat extraction is managed via a rear-mounted radiator cooled by a large roof intake duct, ensuring thermal stability under extreme conditions.

A mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout replaces the Tahoe’s original setup, centralizing mass and providing sharper handling through the mountain’s tight switchbacks. The drivetrain is supported by reinforced suspension geometry and progressive dampers, with ride height adjustable from 85mm to 140mm to adapt to varying surface conditions encountered during the ascent.

Reinforced suspension geometry with thick tube frame substructure visible through bodywork
Carbon fiber rear tub extended beyond hatch line to mount rear wing
Chassis modifications to accommodate rearward cabin shift and shortened front end