Miro Zrnčević | Bugatti Rimac Chief Test And Development Driver
About this episode
Miro Zrnčević, the Chief Test and Development Driver at Bugatti Rimac, shares his fascinating journey from a drifting enthusiast in Croatia to testing some of the world's fastest hypercars. He discusses his experiences with the development of the Concept One, Navara, and the Turbjorn, highlighting the intricacies of vehicle dynamics, traction control, and the evolution of electric vehicles. Miro also reflects on the challenges and rewards of working in a rapidly growing automotive company, the thrill of high-speed testing, and the unique characteristics of the Bugatti lineup, including the Belied.
Bugatti Rimarts
"...Miro Zernchevich, who is the chief test and development driver at Bugatti Rimarts. That is a pretty cool title, isn't it?"
Bugatti Rimarts is a famous car company that makes very fast and expensive cars. They are known for their unique designs and powerful engines.
Bugatti Rimarts is a luxury automotive company known for producing high-performance hypercars, including the iconic Bugatti Veyron and Chiron. The brand is synonymous with speed, engineering excellence, and exclusivity.
Bugatti Bolide
"...he's been driving the Bolide, so we have a chat about what it's like driving those cars."
The Bugatti Bolide is a super-fast car made for racing. It has a very powerful engine and is designed to be as light as possible to go really fast on tracks.
The Bugatti Bolide is a track-focused hypercar that showcases extreme performance and engineering. It features a lightweight design and a powerful quad-turbocharged W16 engine, making it one of the fastest cars in the world.
Cadillac V16
"...ast speeds, what it's like developing the Hybrid V16 in the Turbjorn. Lots and lots and lots of just ..."
The Cadillac V16 is a really old luxury car that had a huge engine with sixteen cylinders, making it very powerful. It’s talked about because it was one of the fanciest and most impressive cars of its time.
The Cadillac V16 is a historic luxury vehicle known for its powerful sixteen-cylinder engine and opulent design. Produced in the 1930s, it represents the pinnacle of American automotive engineering of its time and is often discussed for its significance in automotive history.
Rally GB
"...in 1995, I was watching at the footage from Wales, so the Rally GB, where Colin and Craig won the championship. He was doing donuts with the Imprezza at the end."
Rally GB is a famous car racing event in the UK where drivers compete on different types of roads. It's part of a larger series called the World Rally Championship.
Rally GB is a prominent rallying event that is part of the World Rally Championship (WRC). It takes place in the UK and features challenging stages on various terrains, showcasing the skills of both drivers and co-drivers.
Subaru Impreza
"...He was doing donuts with the Imprezza at the end. And at that point, I was like, OK, that's it."
The Subaru Impreza is a small car that is famous for its ability to drive well in tough conditions. It's often used in racing events, especially rallying.
The Subaru Impreza is a compact car known for its all-wheel-drive capabilities and performance, especially in rallying. It has a strong motorsport heritage, particularly in the World Rally Championship.
rallying
"...I was already into rallying and scrutineering. And I was a marshal on races and stuff like that."
Rallying is a type of car racing that happens on different kinds of roads, not just racetracks. Drivers race against the clock and often have someone helping them with directions.
Rallying is a form of motorsport that takes place on public or private roads with modified production vehicles. It involves a series of timed stages, where drivers navigate through various terrains, often with the assistance of a co-driver who reads pace notes.
marshal
"...I was a marshal on races and stuff like that. So I told him like, okay, I'm going to all these races."
A marshal is a person who helps keep races safe. They watch the race and help out if something goes wrong, like if a car crashes.
A marshal in motorsport is a volunteer responsible for ensuring safety during races. They monitor the race, assist drivers in case of incidents, and help maintain order on the track.
BMW E30
"...ed to do his own thing. We started to do the BMW E30, the famous BMW with very, very high powered elec..."
The BMW 3 Series is a popular car that many people love because it drives really well and feels nice inside. It's been around for a long time and is often talked about because it’s a good mix of fun to drive and comfortable for everyday use.
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car that has been a staple in the automotive industry since its introduction in 1975. Known for its sporty handling, luxurious interior, and advanced technology, the 3 Series is often discussed for its blend of performance and practicality, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts and professionals alike.
vehicle dynamics
"So I started working very closely to vehicle dynamics guys, air dynamicists, vehicle testing, stuff like that."
Vehicle dynamics is about how cars move and handle while driving. It helps engineers make cars that are safe and fun to drive.
Vehicle dynamics refers to the study of how vehicles behave while in motion, including aspects like handling, stability, and ride comfort. Understanding vehicle dynamics is crucial for designing and developing vehicles that perform well under various conditions.
aerodynamics
"So I started working very closely to vehicle dynamics guys, air dynamicists, vehicle testing, stuff like that."
Aerodynamics is how air moves around cars when they drive. Good aerodynamics helps cars go faster and use less fuel.
Aerodynamics is the study of how air interacts with moving objects, particularly vehicles. It plays a significant role in vehicle design, affecting fuel efficiency, stability, and performance at high speeds.
EVO magazine
"because I was doing EVO magazine in Croatia. So that definitely helped because I knew what not to do or what kinds of stuff to avoid."
EVO magazine is a magazine that talks about fast and exciting cars. It features reviews and news about the latest models.
EVO magazine is a well-known automotive publication that focuses on performance cars, reviews, and automotive news. It is popular among car enthusiasts for its in-depth articles and high-quality photography.
Porsche 918
"...it makes sense to me, the 918 actually was a very good example of this. Lots of cars are getting louder inside and quieter outside at the same time..."
The Porsche 918 is a high-performance sports car that uses both a gasoline engine and electric motors to deliver power. It's designed to be fast and fun to drive, while also being more environmentally friendly than traditional supercars.
The Porsche 918 is a hybrid supercar that combines high performance with advanced technology, allowing for a unique driving experience. It features a powerful V8 engine paired with electric motors, providing both speed and efficiency.
Toyota Corolla
"But on the part of test cars, I think one of the first ones was the Corolla or a Yaris or something..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small, affordable car that is very popular because it's dependable and gets good gas mileage.
The Toyota Corolla is a compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It has been one of the best-selling cars globally for many years.
Toyota Yaris
"But on the part of test cars, I think one of the first ones was the Corolla or a Yaris or something..."
The Toyota Yaris is an even smaller car than the Corolla, and it's great for driving around town because it's easy to park and saves on gas.
The Toyota Yaris is a subcompact car that is known for its small size and efficiency, making it ideal for city driving.
Nissan 350Z
"I think it was the 350Z, the Nissan 330Z."
The Nissan 350Z is a fast sports car made by Nissan, popular for its sporty design and powerful engine. It was made in the early 2000s and is known for being fun to drive.
The Nissan 350Z is a sports car that was produced from 2002 to 2009, known for its performance and rear-wheel-drive layout. It features a V6 engine and is part of the Z series, which has a long history in Nissan's lineup.
Porsche 911
"I drove my first 911. One of the last gigs I did for Evo Magazine was going to Slovakia to for two days to drive every single generation of 911."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that has been around for many years. It's known for its unique shape and powerful performance, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Porsche 911 is an iconic sports car that has been in production since 1964. Known for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout, the 911 has undergone several generations of development, maintaining its status as a high-performance vehicle.
drifting
"And having some drift aspirations and rally aspirations, that was ideal for me because it was on lock stops all the time."
Drifting is when a car slides sideways while turning. It's a skill that drivers use in races and competitions to show off control and style.
Drifting is a driving technique where the driver intentionally oversteers, causing a loss of traction in the rear wheels while maintaining control of the vehicle. It's commonly used in motorsport competitions and is characterized by the car sliding sideways through turns.
Nissan Skyline
"...we managed to make a package with Nissan Skyline R34 GTT, so we will drive car, but it was basically stock that we made a whole marketing story about it."
The Nissan Skyline R34 GTT is a fast sports car with a strong engine that many car enthusiasts love. It's famous for its speed and has been featured in popular movies and video games.
The Nissan Skyline R34 GTT is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful turbocharged inline-six engine and advanced technology, making it popular in the tuning and drifting communities. It gained fame through its appearances in video games and movies, particularly in the Fast & Furious franchise.
car control
"As a test driver, definitely what helps is car control and drifting is definitely the best thing. So developing yourself as a driver, the car control is maybe number one."
Car control is how well a driver can handle a car, especially when things get tricky. It's important for driving fast and safely, helping drivers stay in control even when they face surprises on the road.
Car control refers to a driver's ability to manage and manipulate a vehicle's dynamics, especially in challenging situations. This skill is crucial for performance driving, as it allows drivers to maintain control during high-speed maneuvers or unexpected scenarios.
mechanical sympathy
"hanging around mechanics helps a lot because you develop a mechanical sympathy for the car. You develop also the understanding of how systems work."
Mechanical sympathy is when you understand how a car works and can sense when something isn't right. It helps you drive better and take care of your car.
Mechanical sympathy refers to a driver's ability to understand and feel how a vehicle operates, which helps in diagnosing issues and improving driving performance. It involves being attuned to the sounds and behaviors of the car, allowing for better control and maintenance.
anti-roll bar
"...we need a software anti roll bar on the front, or we need a stiffer springs on the rear..."
An anti-roll bar is a part of a car's suspension that helps keep the car stable when turning. It connects the left and right sides of the suspension to reduce leaning during turns.
An anti-roll bar, also known as a sway bar, is a suspension component that helps reduce body roll during cornering by linking opposite wheels together. This improves handling and stability by distributing weight more evenly across the vehicle.
performance tuning
"If we are not doing performance tuning or performance testing, which 99.9% of testing is the case. So you usually go to the track, you are driving on the track, but you are testing different stuff..."
Performance tuning is when you make changes to a car to make it go faster or handle better. This can include things like changing the engine settings or improving the suspension.
Performance tuning refers to the process of modifying a vehicle's engine and other components to enhance its performance, such as speed, handling, and efficiency. This can involve adjustments to the suspension, engine mapping, and aerodynamics.
driver enjoyment
"...the most important part, of course, from my perspective is driver enjoyment..."
Driver enjoyment is how much fun a person has while driving a car. It includes how the car feels and responds to the driver's actions.
Driver enjoyment refers to the pleasure and satisfaction a driver experiences while operating a vehicle. This can be influenced by factors such as handling, feedback, and overall driving dynamics.
Porsche 918 Spyder
"...t's, you know, 222. And the next day I jump in a 918 spider Porsche as a part of the exercise for some..."
The Porsche 918 Spyder is a really fast sports car that also uses electricity to help it go. People talk about it because it’s one of the coolest cars that mixes speed with being eco-friendly.
The Porsche 918 Spyder is a plug-in hybrid supercar that combines high performance with advanced hybrid technology. Known for its incredible speed and handling, the 918 is often discussed as a benchmark in the world of hybrid sports cars.
g-force
"...put too much, let's say, g-force for the steering to be loaded on the road. If you do that, the car is too twitchy..."
G-force is a measure of how heavy something feels when a car accelerates or turns. It's like the feeling you get when a roller coaster speeds up or slows down.
G-force refers to the force of gravity on an object, often experienced as acceleration. In automotive terms, it indicates how much force is exerted on a car and its occupants during maneuvers like acceleration, braking, or cornering.
damping
"...If the damping is too stiff, the car is going to bounce around on normal road..."
Damping is how a car's suspension system smooths out bumps in the road. It helps keep the ride comfortable by controlling how quickly the car bounces after hitting a bump.
Damping refers to the process of reducing oscillations or vibrations in a vehicle's suspension system. Proper damping helps ensure a smooth ride by controlling how quickly the suspension can respond to bumps and road imperfections.
hypercar
"handful of high-powered or hypercar companies that came out and survived in the past 10 years,"
A hypercar is a type of super-fast car that is very expensive and has the latest technology. They are some of the fastest cars in the world.
A hypercar is a high-performance supercar that exceeds typical supercar performance standards, often featuring advanced technology, extreme speed, and high price points.
EVs
"...you then you've been working on EVs. Actually, that's something I wanted to ask about."
EVs stands for electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment because they don't produce exhaust fumes.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars powered entirely by electricity instead of traditional gasoline or diesel engines. They are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs.
torque vectoring
"...focusing on, of course, driver feedback the most, but we also had torque vectoring at that point. We also had a very, very complex system in that car..."
Torque vectoring helps a car handle better by sending power to the wheels that need it most. This means if one wheel is slipping, more power can go to the other wheel to help the car stay stable and go around corners more easily.
Torque vectoring is a technology that allows for the distribution of power to individual wheels, enhancing traction and handling. This system can improve cornering performance by sending more power to the wheel that needs it most, helping to maintain stability and control during dynamic driving conditions.
space-frame chassis
"...that car was basically a proto car. It was not nearly developed on the level as the Neveira or the Turbjorn or anything similar to this. It had a space-famed chassis..."
A space-frame chassis is a strong and lightweight structure used in cars. It helps the car be safer and perform better because it can handle stress without adding too much weight.
A space-frame chassis is a type of vehicle structure that uses a network of struts and beams to create a rigid framework. This design is lightweight yet strong, allowing for improved performance and safety in vehicles, particularly in sports and luxury cars.
Pike's Peak
"Then at one point, we got to do the Pike-Speak car for a Nobuhiro Monster Tajima."
Pike's Peak is a mountain in Colorado where cars race to the top. It's known for being very difficult because of the steep roads and high altitude.
Pike's Peak is a famous mountain in Colorado known for its annual automobile and motorcycle race to the summit. The race is renowned for its challenging terrain and high altitude, making it a significant event in motorsport.
Ferrari 812 Ferrari
"...this level, but if you were in something like an 812 Ferrari or something, not a 60 doesn't feel that fast, b..."
The Ferrari 812 Superfast is a really fast and fancy sports car with a big engine that makes it super powerful. People talk about it because it’s one of the best cars for speed and style.
The Ferrari 812 Superfast is a high-performance grand tourer that features a powerful V12 engine and advanced aerodynamics. Known for its speed and luxury, the 812 is often highlighted in discussions about supercars and the Ferrari brand's legacy.
Bugatti Veyron
"...in its current, you know, sort of iteration with Veyron, Sharon, etc. It's like, there's lots of people o..."
The Bugatti Veyron is an incredibly fast and expensive car that used to be the fastest in the world. It’s talked about because it’s super powerful and very rare, making it a dream car for many.
The Bugatti Veyron is a luxury hypercar that was once the fastest production car in the world, known for its exceptional engineering and performance. With a quad-turbocharged W16 engine, the Veyron is often discussed for its groundbreaking speed and exclusivity.
Rimac Nevera
"...great because I drove first the bullies, then the nevera, and then after all, and in in the end, the Suba..."
The Rimac Nevera is a super-fast electric car that can go really fast without using gas. People talk about it because it shows how cool and powerful electric cars can be.
The Rimac Nevera is an all-electric hypercar that boasts impressive performance figures, including a top speed of over 250 mph. As a pioneer in electric vehicle technology, the Nevera is often discussed for its innovative design and capabilities in the high-performance segment.
Toyota Yaris Gr
"... the market, that's, I mean, you look at GR86s or Yaris GR, those cars cost like, you know, Porsches in the..."
The Toyota GR Yaris is a sporty version of a small car that’s made for fun driving, especially on twisty roads. People talk about it because it’s exciting to drive and has cool racing features.
The Toyota GR Yaris is a high-performance version of the standard Yaris, developed for motorsport and designed to deliver thrilling driving dynamics. It has gained attention for its rally-inspired features and compact size, appealing to enthusiasts looking for an engaging driving experience.
Ford Fiesta
"... of money, which, you know, of course, you know, Ford Fiesta was one of those cars. Certain range of Ford Fie..."
The Ford Fiesta Active is a small car that looks a bit tougher and is good for everyday driving. People talk about it because it’s affordable and practical for city life.
The Ford Fiesta Active is a crossover variant of the popular Fiesta hatchback, designed to offer a more rugged appearance and enhanced versatility. It is often discussed for its practicality and affordability in the subcompact car segment.
BMW F80
"...rn heads and would get the focus. Of course, the F80 recently also what came out and the videos and ev..."
The BMW M3 is a super sporty version of the 3 Series that goes really fast and handles great on the road. People talk about it because it’s one of the best cars for those who love to drive and want something exciting.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the 3 Series, designed for enthusiasts who seek an exhilarating driving experience. Known for its powerful engines and precise handling, the M3 has a rich motorsport heritage and is often highlighted in discussions about performance cars.
Toyota Land Cruiser
"...off-road vehicle of choice? Well, I have the old Land Cruiser. Oh, yeah. It's the mothership. It's the family c..."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a big SUV that can handle tough roads and off-road adventures really well. It's also great for families, which is why people often talk about it when discussing reliable and strong vehicles.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a rugged, full-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and durability. With a history spanning over 60 years, it has gained a reputation as a reliable vehicle for both adventure and family use, often mentioned for its versatility and longevity.
Toyota Camry
"... podcast network. To the Svelte Crown, the Sleek Camry All-Wheel Drive, the Corolla Hybrid All-Wheel Dri..."
Toyota Crown
"...the sports social podcast network. To the Svelte Crown, the Sleek Camry All-Wheel Drive, the Corolla Hyb..."
The Toyota Crown is a fancy car that feels really nice to drive and has a lot of cool features. People talk about it because it’s a luxury vehicle that’s comfortable and stylish.
The Toyota Crown is a luxury sedan that has been a symbol of prestige in Japan since its debut in 1955. Known for its smooth ride and high-quality interior, the Crown is often discussed for its blend of comfort and advanced technology, appealing to those seeking a refined driving experience.
Toyota Tacoma
"..., the Corolla Hybrid All-Wheel Drive, the Rugged Tacoma, the Tenacious Tundra, and the Spacious Grand Hig..."
Toyota Tundra
"...ll-Wheel Drive, the Rugged Tacoma, the Tenacious Tundra, and the Spacious Grand Highlander with All-Wheel..."
Toyota Grand Highlander
"...ed Tacoma, the Tenacious Tundra, and the Spacious Grand Highlander with All-Wheel Drive to keep you and yours safe...."
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a big SUV that has lots of room for families and their stuff. It’s talked about because it’s safe and comfortable for long trips or daily driving.
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a spacious SUV designed to accommodate larger families and provide ample cargo space. With modern safety features and a comfortable interior, it is often highlighted for its practicality and versatility in family transportation.
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