Quarkus P3, the French surprise for Pikes Peak 2024

Throughout the year there are several events where we can see very special cars, built specifically to be tested in those competitions. These are very special events where brands strive to achieve good results by applying all their technology to serve the driver and create impressive cars. And sometimes, minority brands make themselves known through this type of race.

Pikes Peak is one of those events. It takes place in June every year and offers a 19,983-metre course along a mountain road where drivers must take great care, and where we usually see cars built specifically for this event. One of the brands taking part this year is the French company Quarkus. An almost unknown brand that will compete with a specific car called the Quarkus P3.

This model is registered in the Unlimited category, one of the most exclusive in the event. The intention of the company founded by Damien Alfano is to make itself known worldwide, and there is no better showcase than this demanding event. Behind the wheel will be driver Bruce Jouanny, who has 20 years of experience driving racing cars.

These months, the Quarkus P3 is undergoing testing at the Pôle Mécanique circuit, in Alès. But the car is not yet a complete reality, so all we can see are the renders the company has released. In them we see the car’s final shape, with a fairly spectacular look.

We know it will use a tubular chassis made of carbon fibre and Kevlar and that a drivetrain with light hybridisation has been chosen. It consists of a 1.0-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers a total output of 296 CV. To make this engine deliver everything expected of it, it will weigh only 600 kg unladen.

The aerodynamics, judging by the renders of the final model, have been improved compared with earlier images, so we expect a very attractive vehicle that will be capable of setting a good time in the American event.