The EV series will be open to any OEM desiring to exhibit new technologies and “clean tech” products.

The International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) and the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) have announced plans to launch a new international Electric Vehicle (EV) series in 2013. The EV series will be open to any OEM desiring to exhibit new technologies and “clean tech” products. Chief among these manufacturers is Quimera, which intends to partner with the IMSA and the ALMS to present the championship.

“We’ve been actively seeking a practical and viable opportunity to develop EV motorsport and we believe Quimera’s technologies and plans are absolutely on target,” says Scott Atherton, President and CEO Panoz Motor Sports Group.  “As the Global Leader of Green Racing, the opportunity to link [the international EV series] to our American Le Mans Series weekends provides an ideal fit for all involved.” 

Race fans eager to see Quimera’s 525-kW, 700-bhp AEGT All-Electric GT will be able to preview the vehicle at demonstration runs scheduled for select American Le Mans Series events throughout 2012. The championship is also exploring the possibility of including Touring GT, F3-type open wheel and TTXGP motorcycle events to its roster.

According to both Quimera and the ALMS, this “global, non-fossil fuel based championship” is only part of a larger, worldwide initiative to develop a new era in sustainable motorsports. While Quimera says the championship will premiere in the U.S. in partnership with the ALMS, the company welcomes governing bodies, promoters or nations from across the globe to participate in similar motorsport projects. 

“For Quimera, this project is not simply confined to developing environmentally friendly cars that will offer an insight into the future of motorsport,” says Javier de Rocafort, Quimera’s Chairman of the Board. “It also concerns encouraging the dramatic shift soon to occur in the way the industry has operated up until now. More important than the act of car racing is how we actively evolve and prepare the future for coming generations.”

Image: Quimera