The Rimac Nevera, an electric hypercar, has achieved a groundbreaking feat by setting a new world record for the fastest speed attained by a production car in reverse. Clocking an impressive 275.74kph, the record-breaking run took place at the Automotive Testing Papenburg Centre in Germany. This is a renowned facility utilized by top manufacturers like Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen for high-speed development.
Rimac Nevera: 275.74 kph In Reverse
During the development process, the Nevera engineering team initially dismissed the idea of the car becoming the fastest in reverse. This is because the vehicle’s aerodynamics, cooling systems, and stability were not originally engineered for going at such high speeds in reverse. Despite this, the Nevera defied expectations, achieving remarkable speeds while moving backward.
Rimac Nevera: How Was It Done?
Rimac’s test driver, Goran Drndak, undertook the daunting task of managing numerous variables during the record-setting run. This included delicate steering adjustments to maintain the car’s balance, precise control of braking points, and vigilant monitoring of speed. The Nevera’s lack of gears, coupled with its four electric motors positioned at each wheel, played a crucial role in this achievement, enabling seamless control and acceleration.
Rimac Nevera: What Powers It?
At the heart of the Nevera’s remarkable performance is its advanced technology. The car boasts four electric motors, collectively generating a staggering 1,914 horsepower and 2,369 Nm of torque. Fueled by a 120kWh battery pack, the Nevera offers a WLTP-rated range of 490km. Additionally, an onboard Nvidia supercomputer constantly calculates and optimizes the torque sent to each wheel, ensuring unparalleled precision and speed.
The Nevera, embodying cutting-edge engineering and unparalleled speed, comes with a hefty price of €2 million (approximately Rs 17.84 crore). Despite its steep cost, the Nevera has proven its worth by shattering more than 20 acceleration and braking records in a single day, cementing its status as a technological marvel in the world of hypercars.
Official Statements
“It occurred to us during development that Nevera would probably be the world’s fastest car in reverse. But we kind of laughed it off. The aerodynamics, cooling and stability hadn’t been engineered for travelling backwards at speed, after all. But then, we started to talk about how fun it would be to give it a shot. Our simulations showed that we could achieve well over 150mph. But we didn’t have much of an idea how stable it would be – we were entering unchartered territory.” Said Mr Matija Renić, Nevera Chief Program Engineer, Bugatti Rimac.
“On the run itself, it definitely took some getting used to. You’re facing straight out backwards watching the scenery flash away from you faster and faster. Feeling your neck pulled forwards in almost the same sensation you would normally get under heavy braking. You’re moving the steering wheel so gently, careful not to upset the balance. Watching for your course and your braking point out the rearview mirror, all the while keeping an eye on the speed. Despite it being almost completely unnatural to way the car was engineered, Nevera breezed through yet another record.” Said Mr Goran Drndak, Rimac Test Driver.