Rimac Automobili, a Croatian electric sports car manufacturer, has made significant strides in the automotive industry since its founding in 2009. The company, established by Mate Rimac, has grown from a small garage project to a globally recognized brand known for its high-performance electric vehicles. This article delves into the historical development of Rimac Automobili, highlighting key milestones and the visionary leadership of Mate Rimac.
Early Beginnings and Vision
The story of Rimac Automobili began in 2007 when Mate Rimac started converting his BMW 3 Series into an electric vehicle in his garage. This hobby project laid the groundwork for what would become a pioneering company in the electric sports car market. Rimac's vision was clear from the start: to build the world's first electric sports car. Despite the lack of available electric systems for high-performance cars, Rimac was determined to develop the necessary components in-house.
By 2009, Rimac Automobili was officially founded in Sveta Nedelja, Croatia. The company quickly gained attention for its innovative approach to electric vehicle technology. Rimac's early success was fueled by angel investors and the sale of proprietary patents, allowing the company to expand its operations and hire a team of experts to further develop its electric propulsion systems.
Expansion and Partnerships
As Rimac Automobili grew, it attracted significant investment from major automotive players. In 2018, Porsche Engineering Group GmbH acquired a 10% stake in Rimac, forming a development partnership to advance electrification and connectivity technologies. This partnership marked a crucial turning point for Rimac, solidifying its position as a key player in the industry.
Further investments followed, with Hyundai Motor Company and Kia Motors jointly investing €80 million in 2019 to collaborate on high-performance electric vehicles. These partnerships not only provided financial support but also enhanced Rimac's reputation as a leader in electric vehicle technology.
Achievements and Future Prospects
Rimac Automobili's flagship model, the Concept One, was introduced as the world's fastest production electric vehicle, although only eight units were produced. The company continued to innovate with the unveiling of the Rimac Nevera, which set groundbreaking records in the production electric vehicle category.
Today, Rimac Automobili is part of the Bugatti Rimac joint company, holding a 55% stake in the venture. With over 1,500 employees and a global presence, Rimac continues to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology. The company's journey from a garage hobby to a global powerhouse is a testament to Mate Rimac's vision and determination, paving the way for a sustainable future in the automotive industry.
