On 12–13 September, the Panevėžys autodrome will host the fourth 24-hour electric vehicle race, which has now become a tradition and this year is being presented under a new name – Eldrive 24H EV Race. One of the largest EV charging networks in Lithuania, Eldrive, has become the main partner and sponsor of this event, which is unique in Lithuania.
Eldrive has not only become the main sponsor of the race but will also provide the necessary infrastructure. Temporary EV charging stations will be installed on the race grounds to ensure that the teams' electric vehicles can be charged throughout the race. This will allow participants to compete without interruption for the full 24 hours.
“The 24-hour electric vehicle race is a celebration for the entire Lithuanian EV community. We are very pleased to be part of this event once again and to be able to actively contribute to building an EV culture in Lithuania. It is a great opportunity to show that electric vehicles today are not only eco-friendly but also dynamic, reliable and competitive,” says Tomas Tamašauskas, Head of Eldrive Lithuania.
Well-known international car manufacturers will take part in the competition – Renault, Nissan and Porsche have already confirmed their teams' participation. This year, up to 18 teams of 3 to 10 drivers each will take to the track. They will take turns driving electric vehicles for the full 24 hours, aiming to cover the greatest possible distance.
Race organiser Darius Grinbergas is delighted that the experiment started in Kuršėnai four years ago has grown into a hugely popular and well-attended event. “The first electric vehicle race was something of a challenge, but the project more than paid off. Every year we see growing interest from participants and spectators. After moving to Panevėžys last year, the race became even more visible and accessible to the public. We are especially pleased that the event even attracts local residents, who come to watch a quiet and eco-friendly race,” says D. Grinbergas.
Last year, 13 teams and one guest crew took part in the race, covering more than 11,000 kilometres in 24 hours. In total, around 1,892 kWh of electricity was used – less than in 2022, when the total distance was 10,013 km and energy demand reached around 2,158 kWh. These figures show the growing efficiency of electric vehicles and the skill of the participants.
The race is officially included in the calendar of the Lithuanian Automobile Sport Federation (LASF), and anyone holding a category B driving licence can take part. Only production, unmodified electric vehicles may compete, and they will be divided into four classes according to their range on a single charge.
During the event, spectators will be able to enjoy not only the excitement of the race but also a variety of additional activities: displays of electric cars and electric motorcycles, performances by professional motorcyclists, racing simulators, and the chance to meet the participating teams and drivers in a special guest zone.
“This race is much more than a sporting event – it is a festival of electromobility that lets people see the potential of electric vehicles first-hand. It is a great opportunity to dispel myths about electric vehicles and to encourage the public to choose more sustainable, environmentally friendly solutions,” concludes T. Tamašauskas.
