an Electric Revolution Without Batteries Using Nanotubes and Liquid Fuels

Rimac is showing a particular interest in the work of a startup focused on nanotubes, a technology that could generate electricity using liquid fuels such as diesel. Let's delve into this innovation.

Despite the entire automotive industry being compelled to shift towards electric vehicles, there are still areas of uncertainty surrounding this technology, such as the recycling of used batteries. Mate Rimac, in a recent interview with Autocar, discussed a groundbreaking technology for electric vehicles, one that could eliminate the need for batteries.

But how could this be possible? The principle of nanotubes involves overheating liquid fuels such as liquefied petroleum gas, hydrogen, or diesel to generate electricity. According to Mate Rimac, CEO of the eponymous brand, this process creates a thin layer of "hollow tubes made up of a network of carbon atoms with unique electrical properties."

This envisaged technology could be harnessed to power electric vehicles. Although the process involves the use of fuels like diesel, a vehicle equipped with this technology would still be less polluting than one with a traditional internal combustion engine.

According to Mate Rimac's statements in Autocar, tests conducted by the startup on the nanotubes, albeit on a small scale, demonstrated a remarkable efficiency of 80%. In comparison, the average efficiency of an internal combustion engine typically ranges between 30 and 50%.

The idea of a manufacturer renowned for its electric cars showing interest in a technology involving liquid fuels like diesel may seem paradoxical. However, Mate Rimac emphasizes that his brand is not exclusively focused on electric vehicles but rather on exploring the most exciting opportunities of the moment.

This new technology could bring significant advantages, especially in the realm of sports cars. By eliminating the need for batteries through nanotubes, substantial weight savings of up to half a ton could be achieved while significantly reducing CO2 emissions compared to a traditional internal combustion engine.