Introduction
Mate Rimac was born on February 12, 1988, in Livno, Bosnia and Herzegovina, but his family moved to Croatia when he was a child. Growing up in Samobor, a small town near Zagreb, Rimac showcased an early interest in technology and engineering. His inventive spirit was evident from a young age, and he often participated in various science competitions during his school years. One of his most notable early achievements was winning first place at the Croatian National Electronics Competition while still in high school.
The Genesis of Rimac Automobili
Rimac's journey into the automotive world began with a mundane incident. In 2007, his old BMW E30 broke down, prompting him to convert it into an electric vehicle. This project, carried out in his garage, laid the foundation for what would become Rimac Automobili. By 2011, he had built the "Green Monster", an electric car that set five Guinness World Records for electric vehicles, including the fastest 0-100 km/h acceleration in 3.3 seconds.
Founding Rimac Automobili
In 2009, Rimac officially founded Rimac Automobili in Sveta Nedelja, near Zagreb. The company's mission was to create high-performance electric vehicles and advanced technologies for the automotive industry. The first major breakthrough came in 2011 with the unveiling of the Concept One at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The car, which boasted 1,088 horsepower and a top speed of 355 km/h, was hailed as the world's first all-electric hypercar.
Financial Growth and Investments
Rimac Automobili's growth attracted significant investment. In 2014, the company received a €10 million investment from Colin Kolles, a former Formula 1 team principal. This was followed by a €30 million investment from the Camel Group, a Chinese battery manufacturer, in 2017. By 2021, the company had secured over €200 million in funding, with notable investors including Porsche AG, which increased its stake to 24%, and Hyundai Motor Group, which invested €80 million.
Partnership with Bugatti
A significant milestone in Rimac's career was the formation of Bugatti Rimac in July 2021. The merger, valued at approximately €500 million, combined the expertise of Rimac Automobili and the legacy of Bugatti Automobiles. Rimac holds a 55% stake in the new venture, while Porsche AG retains the remaining 45%. This partnership aims to push the boundaries of automotive innovation, blending Bugatti's heritage with Rimac's cutting-edge electric technology.
Rimac Technology
In addition to manufacturing electric hypercars, Rimac has established Rimac Technology, a subsidiary focused on developing advanced components and systems for other automotive manufacturers. The company supplies high-performance electric drivetrain systems, battery packs, and other technologies to brands such as Aston Martin, Koenigsegg, and Pininfarina. Rimac Technology's revenue in 2021 was reported to be €150 million, highlighting its significant impact on the industry.
Greyp Bikes
Rimac's innovative streak extends beyond automobiles. In 2013, he founded Greyp Bikes, a company specializing in high-tech electric bicycles. Greyp Bikes integrates advanced technology, such as sensors and connectivity features, to enhance the riding experience. The company's flagship model, the Greyp G6, is equipped with a 700Wh battery and a range of up to 100 kilometers. In 2021, Porsche Ventures acquired a 10% stake in Greyp, further solidifying Rimac's influence in the e-mobility sector.
Awards and Recognition
Mate Rimac's contributions to the automotive industry have not gone unnoticed. In 2017, he was included in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for his achievements in manufacturing and industry. He has also received numerous accolades in Croatia, including the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2019. Rimac's innovative approach and relentless pursuit of excellence have earned him a reputation as one of the most influential figures in the electric vehicle revolution.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Despite his busy schedule, Rimac is known for his down-to-earth personality and commitment to giving back to the community. He is actively involved in various charitable initiatives, focusing on education and technology development in Croatia. In 2020, he donated €1 million to support STEM education programs in Croatian schools, aiming to inspire the next generation of innovators.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Mate Rimac envisions a future where electric vehicles are the norm rather than the exception. He plans to expand Rimac Automobili's production capacity with the construction of a new 200,000 square meter campus in Sveta Nedelja, which is expected to create over 2,500 jobs. The facility, set to open in 2023, will include state-of-the-art research and development centers, production lines, and testing facilities.
Conclusion
Mate Rimac's journey from a small-town inventor to a global automotive pioneer is a testament to his vision, determination, and innovative spirit. His work has not only revolutionized the electric vehicle industry but also positioned Croatia as a hub for cutting-edge technology. With ambitious plans for the future, Rimac continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, inspiring a new era of sustainable mobility.