The SSC Tuatara is the fastest officially recognized production car in the world at 282.9 mph (455 km/h). But the Tuatara itself is likely much faster, and it could go even higher if an electrified all-wheel-drive version joins in.
This car is in the works, it was reported. SSC founder and CEO, Jerod Shelby reportedly said so in a recent interview, although the details of the project were not discussed. Some information is already available, such as dual motors for the front wheels. That will provide all-wheel-drive grip, although the status of the Tuatara’s electrified internal combustion engine is unknown.
According to reports, this Tuatara will use the name Tuatara Striker. The track-only Tuatara itself was introduced in May 2021, but it’s now known that it will debut in August at Pebble Beach. The striker is said to have triple the downforce at over 160 mph (257 km/h) than the standard car, thanks in part to a large rear wing, front splitter, modified diffuser and other aerodynamic tweaks. Power remains the same, with 1,750 horsepower (1,305 kilowatts) already available from the center-mounted 5.9-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine.
Previously, SSC shocked the world in 2020 by claiming a record top speed of 316 mph (508.5 km/h), an average in both directions across a long stretch of Nevada’s highway. The data later proved inaccurate, and since then SSC has been moving backwards towards the 300 mph (483 km/h) mark. Just a few days ago, SSC shared a video showing the Tuatara hitting 295 mph (475 km/h) in Johnny Bohmer Proving Grounds in Florida, although the speed is achieved in one direction so this is an unofficial benchmark.
To negate the effects of wind or altitude on the vehicle, the official top speed must be carried in the opposite direction for a certain period of time. The two speeds are then averaged, which is why the 304-mph (489 km/h) one-way speed achieved by the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ is also unofficial.
