Pikes Peak Electric Car Victory for Ford Mustang Mach E
June 21, 2026
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Key Takeaways
The Ford Super Mustang Mach-E, an electric vehicle (EV), dominated the Pike's Peak International Hill Climb, beating all gas-powered cars and proving the superiority of EVs in high-altitude racing with a winning time of 8:18.202.
The Mustang Mach-E's advantage at high altitudes stems from its electric powertrain, which doesn't require oxygen for combustion, giving it a significant edge over gas-powered vehicles in low-oxygen environments.
The consumer-available Mustang Mach-E is available in Canada, starting at around $50,000, with eligible buyers able to receive the Canadian government's iZEV incentive of up to $5,000 and additional provincial rebates, offering a range of up to 505 kilometres on a single charge.
Ford's Super Mustang Mach-E Dominates Pike's Peak International Hill Climb
The Pike's Peak International Hill Climb, one of the world's most challenging road race events, has been held 103 times since 1916. This year, Ford's Super Mustang Mach-E, driven by experienced driver Romain Dumas, made a comeback after a tough 2025 race where it won its class but came in second overall. The Super Mustang Mach-E beat every gas-powered car up the hill, proving the superiority of electric vehicles (EVs) in high-altitude racing. Canadian fans of the Mustang Mach-E can appreciate the vehicle's performance, although the Super Mustang Mach-E is a custom-built racecar that bears little resemblance to the consumer-available electric sport SUV available in Canada.
The Advantage of Electric Vehicles at High Altitudes
The Pike's Peak International Hill Climb is notorious for its high altitude, with the track starting at 9,390ft (2,862m) and finishing at 14,110ft (4,300m). At high altitudes, there is less oxygen, which hinders the performance of gas-powered vehicles. However, EVs like the Mustang Mach-E don't require oxygen for combustion, giving them a significant advantage. This is why EVs have consistently overperformed in the race, with the all-time record held by the all-electric Volkswagen ID.R, driven by Romain Dumas, with a time of 7:57.148. Canadian drivers who have experienced the challenges of driving in the Canadian Rockies can appreciate the difficulties of racing at high altitudes.
Ford's Determination to Win
Last year, the Super Mustang Mach-E won its class but lost to an ultralight prototype racecar due to inclement weather conditions that forced the closure of half the track. Determined to prove its superiority, Ford returned with the Super Mustang Mach-E, driven by Romain Dumas, who had previously set the all-time record in the VW ID.R. Although the Mustang Mach-E did not qualify with the best time, it made up for it on the full course, winning with a time of 8:18.202, more than 11 seconds ahead of the second-place finisher. Canadian pricing for the consumer-available Mustang Mach-E starts at around $50,000, and buyers may be eligible for the Canadian government's iZEV incentive, which offers a rebate of up to $5,000. Some provinces, such as British Columbia and Quebec, also offer additional rebates for EV purchases.
A Playground for Electric Vehicles
The Pike's Peak International Hill Climb has become a showcase for EVs, with other electric vehicles, such as the Ioniq 5N and Rivian Quad, setting records in previous years. The Super Mustang Mach-E's victory is a testament to the capabilities of EVs in high-performance racing. As the Canadian government continues to promote the adoption of EVs through incentives such as the iZEV program and provincial rebates, Canadian drivers can look forward to more affordable and environmentally friendly options. The Mustang Mach-E is available at Ford dealerships across Canada, with a range of up to 505 kilometres on a single charge, making it an attractive option for those looking to switch to an electric vehicle.
