Do you know all the secrets about Pikes Peak? Pay attention to its history

The Pikes Peak Mountain Climb, also known as the ‘Race to the Clouds’, is one of the oldest and most iconic motor competitions in the world. Held since 1916, this race has witnessed the constant evolution of motorsport, from the first single-seaters to the most advanced electric vehicles. In 2024, Hyundai returns to this historic competition with the aim of breaking new records in the category of modified and production electric SUVs.

Pikes Peak represents a unique challenge due to its altitude and changing conditions. The lack of oxygen affects both engines and drivers, making preparation and endurance crucial to winning this competition.

History and origin of Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak rises majestically in the Front Range of the state of Colorado, United States. It is named after Zebulon Pike, an explorer who attempted to reach its summit in 1806 without success. Since 1916, the mountain has been the setting for one of the most demanding races in the world, an idea conceived by businessman Spencer Penrose to attract tourists to the newly built road to the summit.

The race has been held uninterruptedly since then, becoming one of the most iconic competitions alongside the Indianapolis 500, the Monte Carlo Rally, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the Monaco Grand Prix.

Evolution of the race

The Pikes Peak Hill Climb covers 19.99 kilometres and 156 corners, climbing up to 4,303 metres of altitude. From the 20 minutes and 55 seconds of the first record to the current impressive 7:57.148, the race has seen remarkable evolution in both the course and the vehicles. Originally, the course was gravel, but in 2012 the road was fully paved following a gradual process begun in 2002 due to environmental concerns.

Over the years, Pikes Peak has welcomed a wide variety of vehicles. From trucks and motorcycles to quads and sidecars, the race has seen all kinds of machines compete. Today, the race is divided into several categories or divisions of four-wheeled vehicles, including Unlimited, Time Attack 1, Pikes Peak GT4 Trophy, Open Wheel, Pikes Peak Open and Exhibition. The motorcycle category was suspended in 2019 following the tragic death of rider Carlin Dunne.

Historic milestones

The first winner of the race was Rea Lentz in 1916, with a time of 20:55.60. In 1985, Michèle Mouton became the first and only woman to win the race. The first participation of an electric car dates back to 1981, with the Sears XDH-1, while in 2018, Romain Dumas set the current absolute record with a time of 7:57.148 behind the wheel of an electric car.

Hyundai returns with Dani Sordo

Hyundai, a brand with a notable history at Pikes Peak, returns in 2024 with the aim of setting new records in the electric SUV category. It will compete with two versions of the IONIQ 5 N, a high-performance electric SUV. The IONIQ 5 N ‘TA Spec‘, driven by Robin Shute and Dani Sordo, has been modified to maximise its performance, including a rear motor of 687 CV, new dampers, competition brakes, slick tyres and an advanced aerodynamic package.

On the other hand, the production IONIQ 5 N, driven by Ron Zaras, will feature the minimum modifications necessary for safety, maintaining the essence of the standard model.