Events founder Robert Swartz has announced plans for the Americas Charged Challenge (CAAC). Designed to accelerate the nation’s transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and the growing network of EV infrastructure, the event kicks off on April 18, 2022, with projected finish road intersections in Redondo Beach, California and New York City on April 22, 2022 (Earth Day).
The challenge has two Energica the racers, Swartz and Steven Day, try to break Cannonball The Vietnamese electric motorcycle record is 178 hours 17 minutes. Both riders will simultaneously cruise from coast to coast in opposite directions on the original 2,906-mile route of the Cannonball Run, creating a unique “race within a race”.
“I built the Model T Speedster before I got my driver’s license, so Henry Ford is my hero. Ford co-sponsored America’s first true coast-to-coast race in 1909, the ‘Ocean-to-Ocean Car Endurance Contest’, a Manhattan to Seattle race. Growing up in the 70s, the Cannonball Run was extremely popular. I put these events together to create the ‘America Charging Challenge’ that promotes clean energy and high-performance electric motorcycles,” said Swartz, owner of three motorcycle businesses – Rob’s Dyno Service , Motus of New England and Energica of New England (EONE) said.
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Voltrek recently oversaw the installation of a fast charging system at Swartz’s EONE facility. CEO Kathleen Connors commented: “Voltrek is proud to sponsor the Charging Challenge across the US. “This unique contest showcases the power and range of today’s zero-emission motorcycles while dispelling ‘range anxiety’ by highlighting the nation’s expansion in charging infrastructure reliable. Riders will visit dozens of EV charging stations, including ChargePoint hubs, one of the largest EV charging networks in the world.”
Stefano Benatti, CEO of Energica Automobile Co Inc., also added, “Real-world endurance competitions are a real test of riders and personal machines, but even more so with electric vehicles. Strategy is more important than top speed, as changes in air temperature, wind, and altitude affect an electric vehicle’s range more than a conventional combustion vehicle. This requires precise advanced planning based on charging station availability and expected riding conditions. It’s a much more subtle and difficult challenge than a typical recording attempt. ”
Vanson Leathers is offering custom fitted safety skins for both riders. “We have worked with Rob for many years. We can’t wait until Earth Day to see who the winners are and what the new record will be,” said Vanson founder Michael van der Sleesen.
“I am delighted to have Voltrek and Vanson Leathers as our original sponsors for this first-of-its-kind event promoting Earth Day and electric vehicles. I have worked with each of these companies and look forward to promoting businesses that I know and trust,” said Swartz, who is looking for more sponsors to offset the cost of the event. Details are available at caac2022.com.
