Watch: Rimac Nevera sets new Nurburgring EV lap record

Rimac Automobili threw its hat in the (Nurburg) ring and emerged triumphant.

The 18th August 2023 will go down in Rimac’s history books: not only did it launch one-of-12 limited edition Nevera Time Attacks at The Quail, Monterey, but it also set a new EV record — 7:05:298 — at the Nurburgring.

A new independently recorded time

Porsche and Tesla had to wave goodbye to their two-part rivalry as Rimac’s Nevera lived up to its meteorological name and took Nurburgring by storm. The Nevera smashed the previous EV lap record – set by Tesla in May – by 20 seconds on its first debut.

Despite the challenging weather conditions — including one of the hottest days on the track — the driver, Martin Kodrić, achieved a fantastic time of 7:05:298. A record verified by independent timing data, TÜV SÜD, and on-board telemetry. “Driving it around the Nordschleife is a real thrill,” shares Kodrić, “from launching out of the Carousel, with 1,914hp being distributed between the four wheels, or pinning the accelerator to the floor down the 1.30-mile (2.8-kilometre) straight section.”

Time Attack: an homage to 2023’s achievements

The success on Nordschleife follows a great year for Rimac. From claiming 23 performance records at the Automotive Testing Papenburg (ATP), Germany, in April, to setting a 49.32 second time at Goodwood Festival of Speed’s Supercar Shootout in July. Thus, making it the fastest electric production car on Goodwood’s hillclimb and the fastest production car on the hillclimb in 2023.

Rimac has turned its accolades into vehicles, shares Group Founder and CEO, Mate Rimac. “The Nevera Time Attack is a Limited Edition that celebrates the achievements of the past year.” All 12 owners of the already sold-out Time Attacks can choose bespoke paintwork, including weather-inspired hues, and enjoy handstiched interiors.

Nevera: a force like no other

Designed, engineered, and handcrafted in Croatia, the Nevera is capable of a top speed of 412 kmh with an acceleration of 0-100 kmh in 1.82 secs. Each of the four wheels is independently powered by its own electric power, which helps channel torque to give unprecedented control and agility. This paired with Michelin’s high performance Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tyres — developed to perform on track while still remaining road legal — set the Nevera up well for the Nurburgring challenge.

But, as Kodric notes: “The fact that the Nevera can achieve this kind of speed on track, when it’s been developed to be a comfortable hyper GT for the road, is what makes it so special.” What do you think?

Hero image credit: Rimac Automotobili