CAAC News

Background: Charging Across America Challenge 2022

Written by Eric Studer

The inaugural Charging Across America Challenge features two Energica electric motorcycle riders, event founder Robert Swartz and Steven Day, attempting to break the Cannonball cross-country electric motorcycle record of 178 hours and 17 minutes. Both riders will simultaneously ride coast-to-coast in opposite directions following the original 2,906-mile route of the Cannonball Run, creating a unique “race within a race.”

Designed to promote the nation’s transition to electric powered vehicles and the growing nationwide EV support network, the event kicks off April 18 with finish line crossings scheduled in Redondo Beach California and NYC on EARTH DAY – April 22. Professional videographers will follow both riders providing real time downloads during the 3+-day trek.

Swartz’ passion for speed ignited at age eight when his father let him drive a 1924 Ford Model T Speedster “airport patrol” car around a rural airstrip. This first drive led to building a Speedster of his own from donated and spare parts before getting a drivers license, a vehicle Swartz still drives and races today. 

“Henry Ford was one of my heroes when I was a kid. He co-sponsored 1909’s ‘Ocean-to-Ocean Automobile Endurance Contest,’ a race from Manhattan to Seattle. Growing up in the 70’s, the Cannonball Run was extremely popular. We combined two historic cross-country events to promote high performance electric motorcycles, clean energy, and my three motorcycle companies,” said Swartz, owner of Rob’s Dyno Service, Motus of New England and Energica of New England electric motorcycles in Gardner Massachusetts. 

The promotion is designed to accomplish three primary goals:

• Change American consumer perceptions on viability of electric vehicles
• Drive awareness of growing national EV charging station network
• Demonstrate superiority of Energica zero emission electric motorcycles vs. direct competitors and internal combustion powered brands

This will be a fun and history-making event providing numerous tie-in and PR opportunities for savvy marketers seeking unique messaging for their brands. Swartz and his team are seeking financial support or in-kind contributions needed to offset event-marketing expenses.