Speed Records Set for EVs, Autonomous Cars

Two companies claim to have set separate speed records earlier this month for all-electric and autonomous electric vehicles.

Maryland-based Genovation Cars Inc. says it surpassed its own world record for fastest legal electric car with a speed of 209 mph at Johnny Bohmer proving grounds in Florida on Feb. 16th, beating its previous best of 205 mph. The time was certified by the International Mile Racing Assn.

Based on a Chevrolet Corvette, the Genovation GXE is outfitted with an all-electric drivetrain that generates 700 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque. The car’s driving range is listed at 150 miles.

Genovation says it is in the testing and development phase for a production version of the GXE and has begun accepting preorders for 75 vehicles.

San Jose, Calif.-based NIO says it set a record of 160 mph for a fully autonomously operated vehicle with its EP0 EV on Feb. 23 at the Circuit of the Americas Race Track (COTA) in Austin, Tex.

The same day, the EP9 also beat the fastest COTA lap time for a production car with a driver, achieving a lap time of two minutes and 11 seconds and reaching a top speed of 170 mph. Last October the car achieved an EV course record on Germany’s famed Nurburgring circuit.

Featuring two electric motors and four gearboxes, the EP9 generates 1,342 hp. and can accelerate from 0 to 124 mph in 7.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 194 mph, according to the company. The removable battery pack can be fully recharged in 45 minutes and provides an estimated range of 265 miles.