In a stunning display of electric performance, the Rimac Nevera hypercar has shattered the previous lap record set by the Tesla Model S Plaid Track Pack at the Nürburgring, solidifying its position as a leader in the electric vehicle race. The Croatian automaker recently announced that the Nevera achieved an awe-inspiring lap time of 7:05.298 (seven minutes and five point two ninety-eight seconds) at the iconic Nürburgring circuit. This accomplishment relegates the Tesla Model S to second place within its category, marking a significant milestone in the electric hypercar domain.
The Nevera’s triumphant feat unfolded over the shorter 20.6-kilometer (12.8-mile) track configuration, where it achieved a remarkable time of 7:00.928. Behind the wheel was Croatian racing driver Martin Kodrić, who skillfully maneuvered the record-breaking lap utilizing Michelin Cup2R tires. The validation of this impressive achievement came from a combination of independent timing data, TÜV SÜD verification, and on-board telemetry, all of which corroborated the set time, as affirmed by Rimac (pronounced ree-muhts).
To put this achievement into perspective, the Tesla Model S Track Pack had previously held the record with a lap time of 7:25.231. This sizable gap of approximately 20 seconds between the Nevera and the Tesla Model S underscores the superior performance prowess of the Croatian hypercar. A riveting video accompanying the accomplishment showcases the Nevera’s agile maneuvers, propelled by its instant torque, while the symphony of wind and tire noises takes precedence over the faint hum of electric motors.
Undeniably, this record-setting endeavor was no easy task. Reflecting on the challenges, Kodrić commented, “We had challenging weather conditions during our practice sessions this week and have chosen what seems like one of the hottest days on the track this summer to set a lap time.” He added that despite being touted as a comfortable hyper GT, the Nevera demonstrated its “devastatingly fast” attributes on the track.
CEO Mate Rimac, in response to this groundbreaking accomplishment, stated, “In many ways the Nevera has reinvented the world of the hypercar, bringing new technologies, new abilities, and new levels of performance. But the simplest way we can demonstrate its capabilities is to go out and break records. And that’s exactly what we’ve done in 2023 time and again.”
The Rimac Nevera boasts extraordinary on-paper specifications. Its motors generate an astounding 1.4 megawatts of power, equivalent to 1914 horsepower, accompanied by a staggering 1740 pound-feet of torque (2360 Newton-meters), all powered by a formidable 120-kilowatt-hour battery. Accelerating from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a mere 1.74 seconds, achieving a quarter-mile time of 8.25 seconds, and reaching a top speed of 258 mph (412 kmph), the Nevera’s performance credentials are undeniably exceptional.
Despite this remarkable achievement, it’s crucial to note that the title of the fastest production vehicle at Nürburgring is still held by the Mercedes-AMG One, which completed a lap in 6:35.183 in November 2022. Additionally, the all-electric Nio EP9 achieved a lap time of 6:45.90 in 2017, setting a precedent as the fastest production car at the time. However, the official recognition of this achievement remains unclear.
Coinciding with this record-breaking triumph, Rimac unveiled the Nevera Time Attack at The Quail, a special edition limited to a mere 12 models. The nomenclature pays homage to the Nevera’s series of record-breaking performances throughout the year, including a notable achievement at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Distinguished by its Squadron Black paint and Lightning Green racing stripes, the Nevera Time Attack draws inspiration from a meteorological phenomenon where ionized particles create a vibrant green hue in the sky following a storm. The color choice also draws from the CEO’s own converted electric BMW 3 Series, creating a meaningful connection between the brand’s innovation and its leader’s personal journey.
