FYI: The Apex Cricket EV exemplifies how a DIY electric race car can deliver thrilling autocross performance on a budget.
Race on a Budget: The DIY Journey of the Apex Cricket EV
The world of motorsport often comes with a hefty price tag, but innovation can sometimes break that barrier. A father-son duo from Northern California showcased this potential by building a high-performing electric race car using available parts and creativity.
The Apex Cricket EV: A Passion Project
The Apex Cricket EV, reminiscent of an Ariel Atom, came to life right as the world paused for the pandemic. In less than a year, a garage project turned into a standout at local autocross events.
Powerful Specs
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Motor and Power: Powered by a Gen3 Nissan Leaf motor, the Apex Cricket EV delivers an impressive 214 horsepower, thanks to its lightweight design, tipping the scales at just 1,700 pounds.
- Transmission Upgrade: The original single-speed system from the Leaf was replaced with a six-speed gearbox and a limited-slip differential sourced from a Nissan Maxima. Despite the lack of in-motion gear shifting, this setup works perfectly for autocross sprints.
Engineering Brilliance
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Suspension and Brakes: Borrowing components from the C5 Chevrolet Corvette, the car stands robust and responsive.
- Battery and Range: Utilizing 60-volt modules from a Chrysler Pacifica hybrid, the battery pack boasts 16 kilowatt-hours, providing up to 100 miles of street-legal driving range.
A Cost-Effective Masterpiece
With a total investment of around $20,000, this homemade electric marvel proves that high costs aren’t a necessity for racing enthusiasts. The upfront challenges with power delivery were swiftly overcome with a customized motor controller, ensuring reliability.
Conclusion: Crafting Possibilities
The Apex Cricket EV stands as an inspiring testament to what can be achieved through ingenuity and dedication. It’s a beacon for those looking to challenge the status quo of racing expenses without compromising performance. For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi, or on Twitter @automotivefyi.
William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
