Buckeye Bullet 2.5

Buckeye Bullet 2.5 is a student built, student created, alternative-fuel racecar from the Ohio State University

Recent developments such as the Tesla models S and P90D, and ground shattering technological advancements facilitated by the efforts of the National Electric Drag Racing Association, is changing the dull and boring perception of electric vehicles. Quite to the contrary, these machines are really starting to electrify our imaginations.

For anyone who still doubts the potential of this very new – and very old – technology, let the Buckeye Bullet 2.5 electric streamliner jump start your awareness to the power of battery powered transportation. This streamliner was built and first raced in 2009 by students at The Ohio State University. It set two international F. I. A. (Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) records in 2010; the mile record of 307.666 mph (495.140 km/hr) and the kilometer record of 307.905 mph (495.526 km/hr), currently making it fastest electric car in the world under international regulations (author's note, this record was broken on September 21,2016 by the Buckeye Bullet 3, which reached 341.4 mph). Overall, the car reached a top speed that exceeded 321 mph.

The Buckeye Bullet 2.5 is currently on loan from the Wally Parks National Hot Rod Association Motorsports Museum in Pomona, CA with permission of the owner, The Ohio State University, at the Route 66 Electric Vehicle Museum located in the Historic Powerhouse Visitor Center in Kingman, AZ*. This brings the Museum’s span of electric vehicle history and development to 100 years, from 1909 to 2009.

In addition to the Buckeye Bullet 2.5, there have been many new additions to the Route 66 Electric Vehicle Museum over the last year, pushing it to near capacity. Other artifacts include several electric micro cars, Willie Nelson’s classic Rolls Royce style golf cart with a wet bar, and “Gone Postal”, an all-wheel drive drag racing postal van from the Discovery Channel pilot tilted “Sucking Amps”.

The Historic Electric Vehcile Foundation is now turning its attention to creating a richer experience for Museum guests. In the coming months, a major fund-raiser will be initiated to enhance exhibits with enlarged period photograph prints on the museum’s massive wall space. Plans are in place for full time docent to explain the exhibits and engage museum guests with a personal experience. In addition, the Foundation seeks to upgrade the theater space and feature pertinent videos to complement the electric vehicle exhibits.

“We want our guests from around the world to leave wishing to return to see what is new and exciting on their next visit” says Foundation Executive Director Roderick Wilde. After a year, visitors to the exhibit already represent all 50 U. S. states and some 70 countries stretching across the globe.

On October 16, the Route 66 Electric Vehicle Museum will be keep doors open until 7 pm in the evening for a special welcoming of The 2nd Annual National Route 66 Motor Tour. Jointly hosted by the Kingman Visitor Center, Route 66 Association of Kingman, Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona, Route 66 Cruizers Car Club, and Grand Canyon Resort Corporation, the reception will be open to the public. Everyone is welcome to mingle with tour participants and see the Buckeye Bullet 2.5 and entire collection of electric vehicles.

*Running gear for this vehicle is currently at The Ohio State University for further development.