title：How Rhys Millen Built His 2013 Pikes Peak Hyundai Racecar

content：The Pikes Peak Challenge—Why Every Component Matters

Imagine navigating 156 corners of varying radii, speeds, and surfaces while climbing 14,115 feet. That’s the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, and in 2012, Rhys Millen set the all-time record in his Hyundai Genesis Coupe. To defend his title in 2013, he knew every part of his new racecar had to be perfect.

After analyzing Millen’s prep process, I see why precision is non-negotiable here. Pikes Peak’s mix of asphalt and gravel, plus thin air at altitude, demands a car that balances speed with control. Millen’s team built on a winning chassis design from Crawford Racecars—an authority in racecar engineering—to lay the foundation for success.

Steering System Tweaks for Tight Corners

Millen’s team transferred Hyundai’s production electronic power steering (EPS) unit to the racecar. Coupled with a modified rack that added 6 degrees of increased angle, this setup let him navigate tight corners quickly. EPS is ideal for Pikes Peak because it provides consistent feedback even at high altitudes, unlike hydraulic systems that can lose pressure in thin air.

Weight Reduction with Exotic Materials

To cut 1,000 pounds from the 2012 winning car, Millen used titanium and carbon fiber. These materials are lightweight yet strong—critical for improving acceleration and braking on steep climbs and descents. Every pound saved translates to better performance when every second counts.

Tire Choice for Max Traction

Soft Hankook tires connected the PM580T Unlimited racecar to the road. Soft tires offer superior grip on mixed surfaces, which is key for Pikes Peak’s changing terrain. They maximize cornering speed and straight-line traction, helping Millen maintain control through every twist.

content：Beyond the Transcript—What’s Next for the 900-HP Engine

The video teases a 900-horsepower engine from Hyundai’s Genesis Coupe production model. While details are scarce, I can share a key insight: Pikes Peak’s altitude reduces engine power by up to 30%. A 900HP engine at sea level would still deliver strong performance at the top, making this upgrade critical for Millen’s title defense. Turbocharging (likely used here) is effective at high altitudes because it forces more air into the engine, offsetting the thin atmosphere.

content：Toolbox & Action Guide

Immediately Actionable Checklist

1. Prioritize chassis balance for mountain races like Pikes Peak.
2. Use lightweight materials (carbon fiber, titanium) to cut weight without losing strength.
3. Choose tires based on track surface—soft tires for mixed asphalt/gravel.
4. Optimize steering rack angle for quicker response in tight corners.

Advanced Resource Recommendations

• Crawford Racecars Chassis Guides: Learn from the team that designed Millen’s winning chassis.
• Hankook Motorsports Tire Catalog: Find the right tire for your track’s surface and conditions.

content：Conclusion & Engagement

Millen’s 2013 Pikes Peak racecar was built for precision—every tweak, from steering to weight, aimed to turn 156 corners into a winning run. The focus on balance and control shows why he’s a top contender in hill climb racing.

Which upgrade do you think made the biggest difference in Millen’s 2013 prep? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s discuss what it takes to build a racecar for Pikes Peak!