High Voltage Halt: Dragstrips Close Lanes to EVs Over Safety Fears

If there’s one thing we all know about EVs, they’re incredibly fast off the line. They can rocket to 60 mph in the blink of an eye—think about the Tesla Model S Plaid doing it in just 1.9 seconds! And they don’t just stop there; they can hold their speed through a quarter-mile run. Dragstrips close lanes to EVs over safety fears as of this past week! 

Dragstrips Close Lanes to EVs Over Safety Fears 

But here’s a twist: Willowbank Raceway recently banned electric vehicles from racing and testing at their facility, all due to safety concerns. So from now on, EV drag fans won’t be seeing those lightning-fast runs at this particular track. For EV enthusiasts, this means taking their thrill rides elsewhere—but there’s still plenty of road ahead for electrifying race action!

Willowbank Raceway recently announced a new decision: they will no longer allow fully electric, road-registered vehicles to race or test on their track. They explained that, after carefully reviewing guidelines from Motorsport Australia, NEDRA, and emergency response protocols for EVs, they concluded that the risks involved with electric vehicle racing are simply too high.

Pop-Out Handles and Live Wires: Inside Willowbank’s Ban on Full EVs 

Willowbank Raceway has implemented an immediate ban on fully electric vehicles at all events, though hybrids will still be allowed on the track. Their decision comes down to safety concerns, especially regarding fire and electric shock risks. They highlight issues like the potential release of flammable gas from damaged batteries, specialized fire suppression needs that the track isn’t equipped for, and the possible inability to open EV doors from the outside in an emergency.

They were also likely referencing Tesla’s pop-out handles that have caused complications before. Additionally, there’s a worry that emergency crews may be unable to confirm an EV is fully powered down after an accident, increasing the risk to both drivers and responders.

A Cautious Move in High-Speed Territory: Willowbank’s Stand on EV Racing 

It seems Willowbank hasn’t had any major EV mishaps that led to this decision, but safety always comes first on a reputable race track. High-speed thrills come with risks, and while some might question their stance on banning fully electric cars, it’s hard to fault them for putting safety front and center. And let’s be honest—no track makes money by keeping the fast cars off the line!

There’s been some grumbling—especially from local EV drivers—but Willowbank is just the latest track to put a stop to battery-powered racing. It follows in the footsteps of Summit Point in West Virginia and Anglesey Circuit in Wales, which both made news with similar moves recently. These tracks all share a grassroots vibe and modest operations, focused more on classic motorsport than on accommodating large-scale, high-tech racing setups.

EVs Still Welcome at Tracks Nearby: Road Trip, Anyone?

The upside here is that there are still other tracks in Queensland that welcome EVs. A quick online search pulls up spots like Lakeside Park and Carnell Raceway. Sure, it might mean a bit more of a drive for Tesla fans living closer to Willowbank, but the option is there! 

And with so many scenic routes to explore along the way, it could turn into an enjoyable road trip for those eager to hit the track! Plus, it’s always nice to have a change of scenery while you’re chasing those high-speed thrills.

Ready, Set, Race: EVs Are Still Welcome at Carnell Raceway:

Carnell Raceway has a long history that goes back to 1969 when the Stanthorpe & District Sporting Car Club first held its committee meeting. Just a year later, the track hosted its inaugural race. Back then, the circuit was a clay-based 800-meter stretch that quickly became a hit with touring car enthusiasts. Local contractors, businesses, committee members, and drivers all pitched in, working tirelessly for months to get the track ready for its debut.

For many years, Carnell Raceway remained largely unchanged. In the early ’90s, the track team made significant upgrades: they lengthened it to 960 meters, added a 200-meter drag strip, and replaced the clay surface with smooth asphalt.. These changes helped the raceway keep up with the times while maintaining its charm. 

Now, the track is used for racing about 20 days a year, featuring a mix of sprints and circuit races. It’s a local gem that keeps attracting motorsport lovers year after year!

Is the Electric Jolt Truly a Threat to Proper Pavement?

It seems that the events these raceways are trying to avoid are of a surprising and sudden variety! Also, diehard motor fans may be influencing locations to keep the roar of gas-driven motors alive. EVs aren’t as entirely hated on as the average petrol head may think. The batteries in question do an excellent and efficient job but do still pose a few hazards that can quickly change a heated drag race’s mood. 

What do you think of this extreme mandate as dragstrips close lanes to EVs? Do EVs have what it takes to dominate any drag strip, or do their numerous hazards pose serious concerns? Let us know what you think in the comments below, or check out another article about Willow Springs’ recent bid for sale.