Rimac Automobili is taking its groundbreaking electric hypercar, the Nevera, to new heights with the introduction of the Nevera R, a variant designed specifically for those who crave unparalleled handling dynamics. This latest model, which made its debut at Monterey Car Week, signifies a shift from pure acceleration prowess to a more balanced approach that emphasizes agility and driving precision. While the original Nevera has already earned accolades for its astonishing straight-line speed, the Nevera R promises to enhance the driving experience with its refined performance and handling capabilities, setting a new benchmark in the world of electric supercars.
The Nevera R was introduced following an extensive teaser campaign on social media that led some enthusiasts to believe that Rimac might reveal an entirely new hybrid hypercar. Instead, the reality is the Nevera R, an enhanced version of the original Nevera, which offers increased performance and a focus on handling. The Nevera R is lighter and more powerful than the base model, boasting several upgrades that contribute to its improved dynamics.
Production of the Nevera R is limited to just 40 units, making it an even rarer sight compared to the standard model. This exclusivity comes with a higher price tag, with the R priced at €2.3 million plus taxes, a significant increase from the €2 million base price of the original Nevera. For this additional cost, buyers receive a vehicle with a boosted quad-motor powertrain that increases output from 1,889 horsepower to 1,989 horsepower. Additionally, the Nevera R is equipped with a new 108 kWh battery, a reduction from the previous 120 kWh capacity. These enhancements, combined with a 35 kg weight reduction that brings the total weight down to 2,277 kg, contribute to marginally improved acceleration figures.
Despite the switch to Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, which replace the standard Pilot Sport 4S rubber, the 0-60 mph and 0-100 km/h acceleration times remain unchanged at 1.74 seconds and 1.81 seconds, respectively. However, the Nevera R shows improved performance in higher speed ranges. The time to accelerate from 0-200 km/h is reduced from 4.42 seconds to 4.38 seconds, while the 0-300 km/h sprint time improves from 9.22 seconds to 8.66 seconds. Although the top speed is typically capped at 350 km/h, the R has the potential to reach the 412 km/h top speed of the standard Nevera during Rimac's speed events.
While these improvements are notable, the true advancements of the Nevera R lie in its handling and cornering capabilities. The R features upgraded 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels, replacing the standard 20-inch wheels on all corners of the base Nevera. Enhancements to the braking system include carbon brakes with a silicone matrix layer, and the torque-vectoring software has been refined. Additionally, increased negative camber helps reduce understeer by 10 percent. To maximize grip, the Nevera R is fitted with a fixed rear wing and a new diffuser. These changes result in a 15 percent improvement in downforce, generating 400 kg of downforce at 350 km/h, a 10 percent increase in aerodynamic efficiency, and a 5 percent boost in lateral grip. As a result, the R achieves a 3.8-second reduction in lap time at the handling track of Porsche’s Nardo test facility in southern Italy.
Given the track's 6.22 km length, it's expected that Rimac will also attempt to set a new lap time at the 20.8 km Nürburgring circuit, aiming to beat the base Nevera’s previous record of 7:05.298 set last year.
Visual distinctions between the Nevera R and the standard Nevera include a new, larger clamshell hood at the front, giving the R a wider, lower, and more modern appearance. Rimac's founder, Mate Rimac, had previously acknowledged difficulties in filling the 150 slots for the original Nevera, partly due to a market preference for traditional internal combustion engine hypercars. While the Nevera R does not directly address this preference, it promises a more raw and engaging driving experience that may appeal to affluent enthusiasts looking to diversify their collection with an electric hypercar.