Pikes Peak Int'l Hill Climb news 2009-06-16

Yokohama's Team Geolandar Fielding Electric Vehicle at Pikes Peak International Hill Climb In Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, June 16-----The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is arguably the world's best-known hill climb event, and in 2009 Yokohama Rubber is fielding an electric vehicle in the event 's Exhibition Division. .

The company's Team Geolandar off-road racing team will race to the 14,110-foot summit on July 19 in a self-created vehicle equipped with Geolandar H/T-S tires.

The South Korean manufacturer refers to the Colorado Springs event as the "Yokohama Team Geolandar EV Off-Road Challenge," and states its aim in participating is to contribute towards meeting its environmental responsibilities. In this instance Yokohama wants to promote awareness of the current and future potential of electric vehicles and gain real world experience to help it develop electric vehicle tires suitable for use in severe off-road conditions.

The Yokohama electric racing buggy will be driven by Ikuo Hanawa, who Yokohama notes is a strong performer in world-class off-road races. The company says the Geolandar H/T-S features improved durability and enhanced fuel economy through reduced rolling resistance. Real world credentials for the Geolander SUV tire include various off-road races including the Asia Cross Country Rally and the Dakar Rally.

The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is America's second-oldest motor sports race behind the Indianapolis 500, conducted since 1916. The race is run on a 12.42 mile course that begins at 9,390 feet and finishes at the 14,110-foot summit of America's Mountain.

This year's race has 11 classes and features a variety of automotive, semi truck, exhibition, open wheel, super stock car, pro truck and motorcycle classes with a field approaching 200 competitors.

Tickets and permits available at: Ticketswest.com or by calling Ticketswest at 866-464-2626

The event's popular "Fan Fest," which will attract some 35,000 fans and participants, is set for the evening of Friday, July 17, in downtown Colorado Springs. The crowds will be able to see some of the autos, trucks and motorcycles up close, meet the drivers, and enjoy music, food and entertainment.

-credit: ppihc