Gotlandring in Sweden, the world’s first sustainable race track, celebrated its 20th anniversary on September 2-3, 2023. This landmark event brought together celebrities, exclusive cars, the TOP GEAR team, Formula E, and the world’s fastest electric go-kart. Among the many highlights of this celebration was the establishment of a world record for commercially available electric racing karts, a testament to the electrifying future of sustainable racing.
Record-Breaking Speed
The record-setting electric kart achieved a top speed of 163 km/h (101.3 mph), solidifying its position as the fastest commercially available electric racing kart in the world. Impressively, this record-setting run required minimal modifications to the kart, the idea behind this record was to show performance that you can get from an “off the shelf” product.
The Technical Breakdown
Driver: Swedish go-kart driver, Leo Obrant.
Track: Gotlandring’s southern loop straight, covering a distance of 590 meters.
Electric Go-kart Specifications:
Chassis: Birel Art CRY32-S14 (Homologation N° 007/CH/12)
Powertrain: BSR 2.2 25kW+ version
Battery: BSR B5500 (Capacity: 56Ah / 5,376 Wh)
Gear Ratio: 14/21
Tires: Vega XM3-CIK PRIME
Ideal Conditions
The Gotlandring track provided the ideal setting with its southern loop straight—a 590-meter straight with zero elevation. To extend it a bit more, we started from the corner, resulting in a 615-meter straight with a braking zone. Ideal weather conditions included sunny skies and a gentle wind of 1-2 m/s.
”This was my first experience with electric karts. I have raced internal combustion engine karts, but the top speed in races for those is about 130-140 km/h. I have never driven a go-kart this fast
Leo ObrantWorld record driver
Charging Infrastructure and Sustainability
Gotlandring is built for race cars, but options to vary layouts allow for go-kart racing as well. Gotlandring sets a new standard for sustainability, boasting an advanced charging infrastructure with chargers for electric vehicles, including fast chargers designed for electric race cars. Additionally, the track’s electricity is sourced from on-site wind generators, aligning perfectly with the ethos of eco-friendly racing.
Event Highlights
The celebration featured appearances by Formula E teams, esteemed TOP GEAR journalists, and a stunning display of exclusive cars and motorcycles. It truly represented an extraordinary amalgamation of speed, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
”This is a pure racing experience, the closest thing to F1 and Formula E racing. I'm telling everybody to come and try. This is amazing!
Alec Arho-Havrénfounder, circuit designer, and chief instructor of Gotlandring.