Ken Block’s Gymkhana, Still Impressive Regardless of Electric Car

It’s reasonable to assume that when Block and his team embarked on creating the first Gymkhana video, showcasing a 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STI on an airfield, no one could have predicted its immense popularity. Fast forward to today, with numerous sponsorships and hundreds of millions of views, the series has achieved a level of commercial success that could have easily compromised a lesser franchise. However, at its core, these films have always been centered around one thing only: witnessing Ken Block perform extraordinary feats behind the wheel of a car.

The latest installment continued to deliver on the familiar and dependable components: Block, an impressive setting, exceptional camera work, nearly 10 minutes of non-stop automotive stunts, and countless reverse-entry drifts that defy counting. The man truly excels at skillfully sliding into corners rear end first. The primary difference this time was the vehicle; the Hoonitron is an EV, and one may question whether replacing such a crucial element from the films’ history—an uproarious internal-combustion engine—would diminish the magic. Surprisingly, it doesn’t.

During the initial minute or so of the film, I watched with eager anticipation. I am aware of the common criticisms directed towards EVs. Yet, my concerns were unwarranted. In reality, the electric car enhances the theatrical experience. Electrikhana emerges as one of the most visually captivating films, entirely shot at night with the radiant neon glow of The Strip. The Hoonitron’s tire-smoking prowess is prominently exhibited, producing plumes of smoke that even the elites at Formula Drift would envy. It’s a genuinely impressive creation, observing it move in a manner unlike any other EV was truly exhilarating. I leaned back and allowed the familiar sense of awe and excitement from watching a Gymkhana film to engulf me. Suddenly, it felt like 2008 all over again. I had YouTube loaded on the family computer, signaling my friends to gather around and witness this exciting new video with a title I struggled to pronounce for the first time.

With a few blatant Audi product placements aside, momentarily giving Electrikhana a Marvel movie vibe, the film benefited from a polished production quality that directly contributed to our viewing enjoyment. It doesn’t bother me that us ordinary folks may never possess the driving skills of Block or construct something as remarkable as the Hoonitron. The series has always revolved around aspirational creations executed by an aspirational driver in an aspirational environment. It’s pure escapism and entertainment.

Additionally, I commend Block and his team for opting for a daring EV choice rather than another ICE vehicle. While the rumble of an engine may be absent, the experience was akin to witnessing an RC car maneuver around The Strip, albeit with a more intense shrieking noise. Moreover, it further normalizes the notion of electric vehicles engaging in thrilling activities.

I’m uncertain whether any Gymkhana film will ever match the standards set by Gymkhana Five: San Francisco—containing one of my all-time favorite sequences; you’re familiar with it—but it’s reassuring to witness the series thriving in this modern era.

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