Posted on: Jul 03, 2012 | 6,612 reads

Nissan Leaf Sets Backwards Record at Goodwood

Nissan EV Videos Green Guinness World Records Goodwood

Watch the battery-powered hatch enter the record books by completing the hillclimb in reverse.

Records are made to be broken, but Nissan's latest effort was performed in reverse. Attempting a unique world record this past weekend at Goodwood, the electric Nissan Leaf became the fastest car to cover a mile in reverse (yet to be awarded a Guinness World Record). By simply disabling the electronic speed limiter, a Leaf going backwards should be able to reach the same top speed it manages when going forwards, as direct drive from the electric motor powers the wheels with no transmission to interfere.

Stunt driver Terry Grant piloted the EV backwards up the hill at Goodwood at an average speed of 55 mph, covering the distance in 1m 37.02s. He set the record on Friday and subsequently smashed his time on Saturday and Sunday by a further 26 seconds.

"I had a great car at my disposal - with direct drive from the electric motor to its wheels, the Nissan LEAF can, in theory, go as fast backwards as it can forwards. There were times I wasn't sure I was coming or going. However, thanks to the LEAF's low center of gravity - the batteries are an integral part of the car's floor - the car is extremely stable, no matter which direction it's travelling. The only complaint I have is slight neck ache from constantly looking over my shoulder!" Other Nissans at the FOS included a 540hp GT-R GT1 racer, the Juke-R and the new Juke Nismo.