Nick Heidfeld test-drives the Pininfarina Battista, shares his experience

Automobili Pininfarina continues testing its Battista hypercar on Nardo Raceway, this time around with ex-Formula One pilot Nick Heidfeld behind the rudder.

The company says that Heidfeld, 43, a professional driver with over 25 years of experience, has helped improve the electric track weapon from the very start of the project, testing its chassis, ergonomics and software logic.

For his own part, the German pro said he was delighted with the car and found its acceleration and handling above all praise. He found Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires wrapped over Impulso wheels the best choice for the Nardo track. He added that he couldn’t wait for the next testing stage that would take the Battista to winding mountain roads.

Powering the electric hypercar is a quad-motor system rated at 1,900 PS (1,874 hp / 1,397 kW) and 2,300 Nm (1,696 lb-ft) of torque. Going 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) succeeds in less than two seconds, and a 120-kWh battery yields over 500 kilometers (310 miles) of range.

The car shares a number of its parts with the Croatia-made Rimac C_Two. It is expected to hit production this summer and ship in late 2021. A total of 150 units will be made, including five Anniversario Edition ones. Prices remain to be announced.