Little-known car maker Aspark has broken a speed record for electric vehicles with its SP600 prototype. The hypercar reached an astonishing speed of 272.59 mph (438.7 km/h) at Automotive Testing Papenburg, a special facility in Germany. Even though it’s still a prototype, the SP600 has surpassed well-known cars like the Rimac Nevera (258 mph) and Pininfarina Battista (222 mph).
The record-breaking run took place on June 8, with driver Marc Basseng behind the wheel. He’s a highly successful racing driver with victories including the 2012 FIA GT1 World Championship. Aspark reports that the SP600 consistently hit speeds of 261 mph during the attempts. In the initial runs, it reached 261.4 mph and 267.19 mph before finally achieving 272.59 mph, verified by a certified Racelogic V-Box.
Aspark collaborated with Manifattura Automobili Torino (MAT) to develop the SP600, handling everything from chassis and suspension design to powertrain and software integration. MAT also oversaw battery production and partnered with Bridgestone to create special Potenza Race tires tailored for speeds exceeding 270 mph.
This isn’t Aspark’s first record-breaking achievement. Last year, their Owl model set records for average speeds over a quarter-mile (198.12 mph) and an eighth of a mile (192.02 mph). The Owl is also claimed to be the fastest-accelerating electric vehicle globally, achieving 0-60 mph in 1.72 seconds, slightly faster than the Rimac Nevera’s independently verified time of 1.74 seconds.
Electric hypercars like Aspark’s SP600 and others are not only exceptionally fast in a straight line but are also making waves in other areas of performance. For instance, the Lotus Evija X recently set a Nürburgring lap time of 6:24.047, showcasing impressive handling capabilities.
Despite these achievements, Mate Rimac, CEO of Rimac Automobili, suggests that future hypercars may explore alternatives to battery-electric drivetrains, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection and driving experience over pure speed.
With its groundbreaking speed record, the Aspark SP600 is sure to attract interest from wealthy enthusiasts eager for top-tier performance and bragging rights.
