Nürburgring: Discover the lap times of these Ligier models without a license

For the first time, license-free cars have recorded official lap times on the world’s most demanding circuit: the Nürburgring.

Ligier Group, a French manufacturer with a rich sporting history, took on a challenge as ambitious as it was unconventional: to demonstrate that urban mobility and performance are not incompatible. It all began with a road trip of over 500 km between Paris and the Nürburgring aboard the new Ligier JS50 REVO D+, a microcar without a license equipped with the newly developed Diesel REVO D+ engine. Two specialized journalists, Nicolas Meunier and Martin Coulomb, completed the trip with a single tank, confirming a consumption of 3.0 liters per 100 km. But that was just the warm-up.

Historical lap times on the Nordschleife

Once in Germany, Ligier put its models into the legend by lining up on the 20.8 km of the ruthless Nürburgring Nordschleife. Three JS50s, including two without a license limited to 45 km/h, recorded official lap times validated by a German notary. The third model fell into category L7e, which refers to heavy quadricycles under European legislation. These vehicles, more powerful than traditional license-free cars (L6e), can exceed 45 km/h and reach a maximum power of 15 kW. Their curb weight is limited to 450 kg (600 kg for utility vehicles), excluding batteries for electric models. In France, driving an L7e vehicle requires at minimum a B1 license (available from age 16) or a standard B license. This category allows for homologation of small electric or thermal cars with compact dimensions, while offering improved urban performance.

With over 73 turns and a formidable relief, the Nordschleife is far from a simple speed ring. Achieving lap times with license-free cars marks a world first, praised by spectators present, stunned by the determination of these small French racers. Note that the electric version of the JS50 L7e completed the circuit in nearly 8 minutes 30 seconds, outperforming the diesel version restricted to 45 km/h. Not bad!

A tribute to racing according to Ligier

Each of the three Ligier models received a special preparation labeled “Ligier Ultimate Racing Experience,” with semi-slick Nankang tires, premium three-color upholstery, a sport steering wheel, and a revamped aesthetic emphasizing the French DNA.

Each model bore an iconic number from Ligier F1 history: 26, 76, and 96, echoing a time when the brand shone on international circuits. A clever way to remind that, even in the world of license-free cars, the passion for racing remains intact.

With these unprecedented lap times at the Nürburgring, Ligier delivers a move that balances technical performance, bold publicity, and homage to its sporting roots. In one word: daring. And successful.

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