Rimac Achieves Sub-Second 0-60 MPH with Musk’s Technique
Mate Rimac, the CEO of Bugatti-Rimac, recently took to social media to disclose details about previous versions of V16 engines that Bugatti had considered for its upcoming Chiron successor. The French carmaker had previously shared some official insights on the highly-anticipated hypercar, including its plan to adopt a V16 hybrid engine. In addition, a teaser video featuring the engine’s sound was released, though not everyone was convinced of its authenticity in this age of artificial intelligence.
After some time, Mr. Rimac intervened to clarify the situation and also addressed the pressing issue in the electric vehicle industry: can we trust Elon Musk’s assertion that the Tesla Roadster can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than a second?
According to a recent statement from a close associate, the photographs featuring the block, crankshaft, pistons, and connecting rods were captured in November 2022. It was during this time that Bugatti had already commenced testing complete engines on dynamometers. The source also mentioned that there are “numerous additional surprises” in store for the rest of the vehicle, although their exact location remains a mystery. However, further remarks made in December 2022 may provide some clues.
During an interview, Mate, the head of Bugatti, stated that their approach to developing the successor of the Chiron would be distinct from Rimac’s approach with the Nevera. He explained, “It’ll be different technology, but also in the approach. Bugatti is known for its rich heritage, expert craftsmanship, and a century of history. It embodies a sense of aristocratic perfectionism.”
According to him, Rimac Automobili is “completely insane, crazy, entirely electric – executing a drift at 37 mph while leaving a massive cloud of smoke in its wake, featuring autonomous drift modes and futuristic technology. Rimac’s focus will be on defying the laws of physics.”
Let’s talk about manipulating the laws of physics…When it comes to altering fundamental principles of science…
Following the release of this information about the internal components of the engine, Mate Rimac was questioned regarding Elon Musk’s statement that the Tesla Roadster would be able to reach 60 mph in less than a second. In August 2022, the head engineer for the Nevera reported that achieving this milestone is possible in the future, but did not give any further details. However, Mate chimed in and revealed that simulations have already been conducted.
In his statement, he asserts that “it is achievable through thrusters,” however, he also acknowledges a major drawback. Once the speed reaches 60 mph, the vehicle is burdened with the extra weight of tanks, valves, nozzles, and compressor(s).
When it comes to fans like the McMurtry Spierling, one expert, Mate, suggests that “you need something like 30,000 Nm” (22,127 lb-ft of torque) on the wheels. This requirement translates to the need for “massive” motors, inverters, gearboxes, and driveshafts, among other components.
Students have recently accomplished a remarkable accomplishment in a customized go-kart. However, when it comes to everyday cars that are meant for pleasure driving, the possibility of further improving their acceleration is not quite realistic. In short, Rimac and Musk both concur that utilizing thrusters is the only practical solution for achieving higher speeds. It remains to be seen if the upcoming Tesla Roadster will incorporate this technology.