Ligier, a French manufacturer with a surprising racing history, has achieved a unique distinction: setting the slowest official lap time ever recorded at the notorious Nürburgring Nordschleife. The record was claimed using their JS50 Revo D+, a microcar legally classified as a “diesel-powered quadricycle” in Europe – and one that can be driven without a license as young as age 14.
The Vehicle and the Challenge
The JS50 Revo D+ is powered by a modest 0.5-liter engine producing just 8 horsepower. Legally restricted to a top speed of 28 mph, it might seem an unlikely candidate for any kind of track record. Yet, Ligier deliberately set out to conquer the slowest possible lap time, completing a full circuit in 28 minutes and 25.8 seconds.
This wasn’t a fluke. The company brought multiple versions of the JS50 to Germany, including an electric model which completed the course in 27:55.6, and a faster electric version (limited to 47 mph) that finished in 19:53.4. The fact that these times were achieved with semi-slick tires raises questions about how much faster they could have been with standard equipment.
A History of Speed, Now… Slow?
Ligier’s approach is ironic, given their past in Formula 1 racing from 1976 to 1996. The company’s shift to building low-power microcars reflects the unique vehicle regulations in Europe. These “quadricycles” sidestep traditional car licensing requirements, making them accessible to younger drivers.
The stunt was executed by French journalists Nicolas Meunier and Martin Coulomb, who reportedly achieved an impressive 78 mpg driving from Paris to the track. The accompanying promotional video plays with the absurdity of the situation, making it hard to distinguish between normal speed and slow-motion footage.
Why This Matters
Ligier’s record is more than just a stunt. It highlights the oddities of European vehicle classifications and the limitations imposed on certain types of vehicles. The company’s success in setting this record is unlikely to be challenged anytime soon. After all, who would bother? This is a record that stands not because it represents achievement, but because it exists at the extreme end of performance.
The JS50 Revo D+ is a reminder that the Nürburgring isn’t just about speed; it’s about pushing boundaries in any direction. The record stands as a testament to Ligier’s willingness to subvert expectations and find glory in the slowest possible lap.
