In an ambitious expansion, Sarajevo reported on January 31st that Rimac Energy, a breakout subdivision of the Croatian electric car titan Rimac Technology, is gearing up to revolutionize the stationary energy storage market with a novel system slated for a 2025 launch. Spearheaded by Karla Janes Mesaric, Rimac’s forward-thinking business development manager, the company has set its sights on an initial production goal of 300 megawatt/hour in the first year, with aspirations to exceed 1 gigawatt/hour starting 2026.
Rimac’s pedigree, formed through the Bugatti-Rimac JV — known for the Nevera electric sports car and the Bugatti Chiron — and backed by a 45% ownership stake from Porsche AG, lends credence to its ambitious foray into the energy sector. This move not only diversifies Rimac’s portfolio but also promises to deliver cutting-edge battery systems and powertrain components beyond its automotive roots.
The journey begins with the establishment of the first production lines at the Jankomir facility on the outskirts of Zagreb, part of a pilot project with Croatia’s renewable energy firm ENNA. This initiative is expected to reach full operational capacity in the second quarter of 2024, setting the stage for mass production in 2025.
At the heart of Rimac’s innovation is the SineStack energy storage system. This system is a marvel of integration, combining a battery, inverter, air conditioner, and fire suppression system into a single 790 kilowatt/hour unit. This not only minimizes switching losses but also significantly reduces energy usage, marking a significant step forward in energy storage technology.
With a strong commitment to European manufacturing, Rimac is pooling the talents of over 100 engineers to develop a prototype that has already garnered widespread interest. According to Janes Mesaric, this unprecedented attention has expedited the issuance of the first certificates for pilot system installations in Croatia and Germany, underscoring the region’s eagerness to embrace innovative energy solutions.
Rimac’s strategic focus on the Balkans for its initial launch, coupled with its dialogue with stakeholders across Europe, positions the company as a pivotal player in the global energy storage dialogue. This venture not only highlights Rimac’s adaptability and vision but also its potential to significantly impact energy storage solutions, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient future.
