Electric motor swaps are becoming more common these days in countries like the United States where the regulations allow it. However, this is usually the solution for classic cars with scarce engine parts and not for brand-new sports cars. At SEMA this year, an electric Toyota GR86 called the SCR1 made its debut, built by Canadian company Scalar Performance.
Yes, the boxer engine has been chucked out, but the all-electric Toyota GR86 retains its rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration. Powering the rear wheels now is an 800-V Stealth electric motor by Hypercraft that makes 333 hp (metric) and 468 Nm. The Scalar Performance GR86 has a top speed of 267 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in an estimated 3.9 seconds. For reference, the standard Toyota GR86 with the FA24 engine makes 235 hp (metric) and 250 Nm.
Built as an amateur touring race car, the SCR1 packs a 65-kWh battery pack that allows for approximately 45 minutes of racing time. Recharging takes less than 20 minutes with a 150-kW DC fast charger, and Scalar Performance says the battery employs an industry-leading battery management system, which means you get every minute of racing possible out of the battery pack.
A 5.19:1 gear reduction system with straight-cut gears connects the electric motor to the rear wheels. Also equipped on the SCR1 is a Torque Sensing (Torsen) limited-slip differential (LSD).
Compared to the internal combustion engine (ICE) version of the Toyota GR86, the EV GR86 weighs 1,379 kg, which is 119 kg more than the RC-spec GR86. Bearing the weight is a set of bespoke suspension developed by Öhlins, 18-inch Enkei alloy wheels, and Hoosier tyres.
The Canadian company says the car’s weight distribution is similar to that of a mid-engine race car. In charge of stopping the SCR1 are six-piston callipers in front and four-piston callipers in the rear.
The SCR1 was designed and built by tech entrepreneur, Brian Bourne, and car builder, Joel Fallaise, in collaboration with engineering partners Hypercraft and Ettractive, the SCR1 is the first club racing electric vehicle approved by the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) for road racing in their Super Touring Series.
Only 10 units of the SCR1 will be made for its launch in summer 2023, dubbed the ‘Founder Edition’. Each vehicle will feature a numbered plaque and a paint-to-sample roll cage, while the owners will receive support from the engineering team including over-the-air updates. Just in case you were wondering, the SCR1 meets and exceeds FIA safety requirements.
GALLERY
Keyword: This Toyota GR86 ditches its boxer engine for an electric motor! – 333hp, 468Nm