The Rimac Nevera, launched in 2021, represents a pivotal moment in the evolution of electric hypercars. It isn’t merely a fast electric vehicle; it’s a technological showcase designed to redefine performance benchmarks. The Nevera is the brainchild of Rimac Automobili, a Croatian manufacturer founded by Mate Rimac, and quickly established itself as a direct competitor to established hypercar brands like Bugatti and Koenigsegg. The 120 kWh (1914 Hp) AWD variant, the focus of this article, is the flagship model, embodying the pinnacle of Rimac’s engineering capabilities. Production began in limited numbers, with each vehicle largely customized to the buyer’s specifications, solidifying its exclusivity.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Rimac |
| Model | Nevera |
| Generation | Nevera |
| Type (Engine) | 120 kWh (1914 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 1.97 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 1.97 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 1.85 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 300 km/h | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 412 km/h / 256 mph |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 1.1 kg/Hp, 890.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 0.9 kg/Nm, 1097.7 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 120 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 730 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | In the central tunnel, Behind the back wall of the passenger cabin |
| Recuperation output | 300 kW |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 550 km / 341.75 mi |
| Max speed (electric) | 412 km/h / 256 mph |
| Electric motor 1 power | 299 Hp / 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 1 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 2 power | 299 Hp / 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 2 location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 3 power | 653 Hp / 900 Nm (663.81 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 3 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor 4 power | 653 Hp / 900 Nm (663.81 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor 4 location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 1914 Hp / 2360 Nm (1740.65 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 2150 kg / 4739.94 lbs. |
| Length | 4750 mm / 187.01 in. |
| Width | 1986 mm / 78.19 in. |
| Height | 1208 mm / 47.56 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2745 mm / 108.07 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.3 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Four electric motors drive each wheel individually. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 390 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 390 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 275/35 R20, Rear wheel tires: 315/35 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 20″, Rear wheel rims: 20″ |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Nevera’s powertrain is its defining feature. It utilizes a quad-motor all-wheel-drive system, with a dedicated electric motor powering each wheel. This configuration allows for incredibly precise torque vectoring, optimizing traction and handling. Each motor produces substantial power – two motors deliver 299 horsepower and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque to the front wheels, while the rear motors generate a massive 653 horsepower and 900 Nm (663.81 lb-ft) each. The combined system output is a staggering 1914 horsepower and 2360 Nm (1740.65 lb-ft) of torque.
The heart of the system is the 120 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, operating at a high 730-volt architecture. This high voltage is crucial for minimizing charging times and maximizing energy density. The battery is strategically positioned within the central tunnel and behind the seats, contributing to a low center of gravity and optimal weight distribution. Rimac’s advanced battery management system (BMS) ensures optimal performance, longevity, and safety. The system also incorporates a highly efficient recuperation system, capable of recovering up to 300 kW of energy during deceleration, further extending the range.
Driving Characteristics
The Nevera’s performance is nothing short of breathtaking. The instant torque delivery from the four electric motors results in acceleration figures that were previously unimaginable for a production car. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in a mere 1.85 seconds, and 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes just 1.97 seconds. The car can reach 300 km/h (186 mph) in 9.3 seconds, and its top speed is electronically limited to 256 mph.
The independent wheel motors allow for sophisticated torque vectoring, enabling the Nevera to corner with incredible agility and stability. The system can precisely distribute torque to each wheel, maximizing grip and minimizing understeer or oversteer. The low center of gravity, combined with the advanced suspension system, further enhances handling. While lacking traditional gear ratios, the Nevera’s electric motors provide a broad torque curve, delivering consistent acceleration throughout the speed range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
Given the Nevera’s hypercar status, it’s offered with a high level of standard equipment and extensive customization options. The interior is a blend of luxury and technology, featuring premium materials such as carbon fiber, Alcantara, and leather. Standard features include a fully digital instrument cluster, a large central touchscreen infotainment system, and advanced driver-assistance systems.
Customers can personalize virtually every aspect of the car, from the exterior paint color and interior trim to the wheel design and seat upholstery. Optional extras include a premium audio system, a bespoke luggage set, and even a custom-designed watch. The focus is on creating a unique and highly personalized experience for each owner.
Chassis & Braking
The Nevera’s chassis is a carbon fiber monocoque, providing exceptional rigidity and lightweight construction. The suspension system utilizes double wishbones at both the front and rear, with transverse stabilizers to minimize body roll. The braking system features ventilated discs with six-piston calipers at all four corners, providing immense stopping power. The ABS system is specifically tuned for the unique characteristics of an electric vehicle, ensuring optimal braking performance in all conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Rimac Nevera has been widely praised by automotive critics for its groundbreaking performance, innovative technology, and luxurious interior. It has consistently set new benchmarks for electric hypercars, surpassing the capabilities of its rivals. Compared to other high-performance EVs, the Nevera offers a significantly higher level of power, acceleration, and handling. Its range of 550 km (341.75 miles) on the WLTP cycle is also competitive, although it’s not the primary focus for a vehicle of this caliber.
Legacy
The Rimac Nevera is poised to become a landmark vehicle in automotive history. It has demonstrated the immense potential of electric powertrains and pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of performance and technology. The Nevera’s quad-motor all-wheel-drive system and advanced battery technology are likely to influence the design of future electric vehicles. On the used car market, the Nevera is expected to hold its value exceptionally well, given its limited production run and unique status as a technological masterpiece. Its long-term reliability remains to be fully assessed, but Rimac’s commitment to quality and innovation suggests that the Nevera will be a highly sought-after collectible for years to come.
