Ford has announced the company is heading out to the track with the Ford Focus Electric. Ford is claiming the title to having the first all electric pace car when the Ford Focus Electric leads the pack at the Richmond 400 later this month.

The public will get it’s first view of the Ford Focus Electric pace car when Lt. Governor Bill Bolling drives the electric vehicle to the Richmond International Raceway on April 25th.

“Highlighting the Focus Electric as a pace car is a fun way to educate consumers about the kinds of benefits our electrified vehicles deliver and show people our commitment to provide Ford customers the power of choice for leading fuel economy in the vehicle that best meets their needs,” Mark Fields, president of Ford’s Americas division, said Monday.

Ford has been quick to brag about the 123 hp in the Ford Focus Electric which is higher than the Leaf’s horsepower rating. It will be interesting to see how the 75 mile range does when the Ford is pedal-to-the-metal around the tri-oval!

In Ford’s press release, they mention that 35% of new car intenders are motorsports fans, with 78% of those supporting NASCAR. The Ford Focus Electric Pace Car will take the pole position on April 28th.