MINI E Racer laps the legendary Nürburgring in 09:51.45 (Video)

MINI is the first car manufacturer to lap the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife with an electrically powered car. We are surprised that no other car manufacturer has not done it yet.

The MINI E Race, a modified race-spec version of the standard MINI E, completed a lap of the legendary 20.8 km (12.9 mile) “Green Hell” in 09:51.45 minutes.

At the wheel of the electric racer for the hot lap was former DTM racing driver Thomas Jäger from Munich, who reached a top speed of 187 km/h with the MINI E during the record run.

“I’ve driven this circuit many times, but never in such an extraordinary car,” said Jäger, the MINI Challenge champion in 2006. “The power of the electric motor has an incredible effect, as you can access its full reserves of torque at all times. Another element of this fascinating experience is the lack of noise from the drivetrain. All in all, that was certainly the cleanest and quietest race lap I’ve ever driven.”

The MINI E Race features the same 204 hp electric motor, powered by lithium-ion batteries, that powers the standard MINI E. The power from the emission-free motor is channelled to the front wheels via a single-stage helical gearbox with a lengthened gear ratio.

To to ensure optimum performance and safety a special lightweight body and a roll cage were fitted, together with various other components, such as the suspension, brakes, tires, Recaro Pro Racer seats are also race specification. For better aerodynamics rear diffuser and rear wing were also added.