Optima Batteries, a leader in traction battery production for EVs, often carries out unique tuning jobs and participates in competitions to draw attention to itself. This lightning-fast Mercedes-Benz R-Class minivan is its latest effort.
The racecar (racevan?) started its life as a super-rare Mercedes-Benz R 63 AMG. Only about 200 such vehicles rolled off the lines thirteen years ago. Each came powered by a 6.2-liter M 156 V8 engine rated at 510 hp (380 kW) and 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque. The tuner team retrofitted it with a Weistec supercharger and a Stage 2 power kit, boosting the output to 710 horsepower (530 kilowatts). Other notable mods included Brembo brakes, low suspension, better exhaust, and an intercooler.
The record-breaking track run took place during the Sandhills Open Road Challenge in Arnold, Nebraska, USA on August 7, 2020. The company only revealed the outcome now, however.
Piloting the supervan was Tanner Faust of Top Gear USA, a famous stunt and rally driver. His goal was to hit the maximum possible speed on a mile-long stretch of road. He ended up taking the MPV to 165.5 miles per hour (266.3 km/h), netting it the title of the fastest road-legal minivan ever.
