Rimac's Game-Changing Move: From Record-Breaking Hypercars to Revolutionary Robotaxis
In an electrifying shift of gears, Rimac, the marque synonymous with blisteringly fast hypercars, is veering into uncharted territory. Known for its jaw-dropping Nevera, a vehicle that redefined electric performance by shattering 23 records in a single day, Rimac is set to launch a second act that promises to be as disruptive as its first.
Mark your calendars for June 26, a date earmarked by hypercar-teaser-reveal">Mate Rimac, the visionary founder and CEO, for unveiling a project five years in the making: Rimac's foray into the world of autonomous mobility. Far from the high-octane, adrenaline-pumping allure of the Nevera, Rimac is introducing a robotaxi. Yes, you read that right—a robotaxi.
The teaser, while sparse in detail, hints at a vehicle that eschews the conventional 'toaster-shaped' autonomous pod design for something more akin to a hatchback, yet distinguished by a notably elongated A-pillar. This vehicle, as Rimac suggests, stands on a purpose-built platform that elevates safety and comfort, transforming mundane commutes into luxuriously seamless experiences, all controllable via a smartphone app.
With an ambitious timeline, Rimac's autonomous ambitions are slated for the roads by 2026. Dubbed Project 3 Mobility, this initiative isn't just a solo venture. It's a nod to collaborative innovation, receiving inputs and financial backing from automotive giants like Kia, Hyundai, and Porsche—the latter now owning a substantial 24% stake in the Croatian powerhouse and even entrusting Mate Rimac with the stewardship of Bugatti.
Volkswagen's announcement to introduce Level 4 autonomous vehicles by 2026 aligns with Rimac's vision, highlighting a future where the boundaries of mobility are constantly expanding. Rimac’s shift from hypercars to holistic mobility solutions mirrors an evolving industry narrative where innovation is not just about speed but also about shaping the future of how we move.
"We have many other things cooking," Rimac shared in a 2021 interview with Tech Crunch, likening the impact of new mobility to the revolutionary change smartphones brought to our lives. With Project 3 Mobility already negotiating deals with cities worldwide, Rimac stands at the forefront of a societal shift, redefining not just transportation but the very fabric of urban living.
As we edge closer to the June 26 unveil, anticipation builds for a project that could very well change our expectations of what mobility can be. From setting records on the track to paving new ways on our streets, Rimac's pivot to robotaxis is not just about changing lanes in the automotive world—it's about setting the course for the future of sustainable, autonomous mobility.