Rimac Unveils Nevera R Hypercar at The Quail
Rimac Unveils Upgraded Nevera R Hypercar at Monterey Car Week
Rimac, a Croatian electric vehicle manufacturer, has introduced an upgraded version of its Nevera hypercar, the Nevera R, at The Quail during Monterey Car Week. The vehicle features 2,107 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 1.74 seconds, with a top speed of 217 mph, potentially reaching 256 mph under controlled conditions. The Nevera R is engineered for superior cornering with its four electric motors, advanced ceramic brakes, a 108 kWh battery pack, Michelin Pilot Cup tires, and all-wheel torque vectoring.
CEO Mate Rimac highlighted that the Nevera R is focused on both performance and design. Limited to 40 units, each will have a starting price of €2.3 million ($2.5 million).
Rimac, founded in 2009 by Mate Rimac at the age of 21, merged with Bugatti in 2021, forming Bugatti-Rimac. The Rimac Group holds the majority ownership, with Porsche owning 45%. The company operates beyond hypercars, with ventures in technology and autonomous vehicles, including the robotaxi business, Verne.
Despite a challenging market for electric vehicles, particularly luxury models, Rimac has remained successful. Mate Rimac believes that uniqueness, not just electrification, drives appeal, particularly among collectors. However, there is a noted decline in demand for electric hypercars, as some high-end buyers prefer traditional gasoline engines, prompting Rimac to explore other drivetrain technologies. Rimac's continued innovation in the EV space remains crucial as the market evolves.
Key Takeaways
- Rimac Nevera R hypercar boasts 2,107 horsepower and 0-60 mph in 1.74 seconds.
- The Nevera R features a 108 kWh battery and advanced ceramic brakes for enhanced performance.
- Rimac plans to produce only 40 units of the Nevera R, priced at €2.3 million each.
- The company, founded by Mate Rimac in 2009, has evolved into a major player in the EV sector.
- Rimac focuses on high-performance, unique EVs for collectors, differentiating from mass-market EV makers.
Analysis
Rimac's Nevera R launch could intensify competition in the high-end EV market, impacting luxury carmakers like Porsche and Bugatti. The limited production and high price point target niche collectors, insulating Rimac from broader EV market volatility. Technological advancements in the Nevera R, such as its high-performance battery and braking systems, may influence future EV innovations. Long-term, Rimac's focus on unique, high-performance EVs could solidify its position as a leader in luxury electric hypercars, potentially driving industry standards and consumer expectations higher.
Did You Know?
- Rimac Nevera R Hypercar Specifications:
- 2,107 Horsepower: This figure represents the total power output of the vehicle's four electric motors, significantly higher than most production cars, emphasizing the Nevera R's focus on extreme performance.
- 0-60 mph in 1.74 Seconds: This acceleration time is exceptionally fast, showcasing the vehicle's advanced engineering and electric motor technology, which allows for immediate torque delivery.
- 108 kWh Battery Pack: This large battery capacity supports the high power demands of the vehicle, ensuring sustained performance and range, despite its high-speed capabilities.
- All-Wheel Torque Vectoring: This technology distributes torque to each wheel individually, enhancing vehicle stability and control, crucial for a hypercar excelling in performance driving scenarios.
- Bugatti-Rimac Merger: The partnership between Rimac and Bugatti allows both brands to leverage each other's strengths in the luxury and performance automotive markets, resulting in the joint venture, Bugatti-Rimac, combining innovative EV technology with high-performance legacy.