Audi’s R8 e-tron Becomes Fastest Electric Car to Hit Nürburgring

It’s no secret that that electric cars don’t have to be lacking in performance, but Audi has proven it with a recent record set on the famous Nürburgring track. With its R8 e-tron, a time of 8m 9.099s was set – a new record for an electronic car. This, not long after the company’s hybrid e-tron racecar won the 24-hour Le Mans endurance race.

While many cars that hit the Nürburgring tend to be concept models or models that simply aren’t released as-is to the public, the R8 e-tron that set this record does look to be the actual production model set to launch later this year. At 8m 9s, this R8’s company includes the BMW M6 E63, Honda NSX-R, Porsche Boxster S and Dodge Viper GTS. By comparison, Audi’s own R8 V8 in 2007 set a record of 8m 4s.

On a track like Nürburgring, top-speed isn’t the only benefit that comes into play, but maneuverability. So with its record, it’s clear that the e-tron R8 will be totally suitable for racing – on safe tracks, of course. Pricing is yet to be finalized, but it’s rumored to launch at around $150,000 – $160,000 USD.