Ligier Sets Record for Slowest Ever Lap Around the Nürburgring – Inside the JS50 Quadricycle

When you think of the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the first images that come to mind are blistering speeds, screaming engines, and lap times measured in single‑digit minutes. Imagine, instead, a vehicle that crawls at a leisurely 28 mph and still manages to earn a place in the circuit’s history books. French manufacturer Ligier has just done that. Its diesel‑powered JS50 quadricycle logged a 28 minutes 25.8 seconds lap, officially the slowest ever lap on the 12.9‑mile ‘Ring. In this article we’ll explore how a voiture sans permis managed such a feat, compare its specs with other quadricycles, and answer the questions most enthusiasts are asking.

Why the JS50’s Slow Lap Matters

Records at the Nürburgring are usually about speed. The Mercedes‑AMG One, for example, holds the fastest production‑car lap at 6 minutes 29.1 seconds. The contrast makes Ligier’s achievement stand out like a sore thumb – and that’s exactly what the brand wanted. By highlighting the JS50’s “glorious history in Formula 1”, Ligier shows that performance isn’t only about raw horsepower; it’s also about engineering discipline, fuel efficiency, and the ability to tackle the most demanding circuit, even at a snail’s pace.

Understanding the ‘Voiture Sans Permis’ Category

The JS50 isn’t a traditional car. It belongs to the French voiture sans permis class, a two‑seater quadricycle that can be driven on public roads without a full driver’s licence – even by teenagers as young as 14. The legislation caps the top speed at 28 mph for the standard JS50 and at 47 mph for the L7e version. This classification influences everything from chassis design to the type of powertrain allowed.

From Paris to the ‘Ring – The Test Run

French journalists Martin Coulomb and Nicolas Meunier embarked on a 310‑mile journey from Paris to the Nürburgring with a single tank of diesel. Their fuel‑economy reading of 94.16 mpg proved that the JS50’s modest power output is offset by exceptional efficiency – a key selling point for anyone looking to save on fuel without sacrificing the fun of driving a lightweight quadricycle.

Key Takeaways from the Diesel Lap

• Time: 28 min 25.8 sec
• Average speed: ~27 mph (44 km/h)
• Fuel consumption: 94.16 mpg (≈4.9 L/100 km)

Electric Variants – Faster Yet Still Slow

Ligier didn’t stop at diesel. Two electric JS50 versions were also tested on the Nordschleife. Because their range is limited to about 119 miles, they were transported to the track instead of being driven there.

Version	Top Speed	Lap Time
JS50 EV (voiture sans permis)	28 mph	27 min 55.6 sec
JS50 L7e EV	47 mph	19 min 53.4 sec

The EV capped at the same 28 mph managed to shave almost half a minute off the diesel time, showing the torque advantage of electric motors. The L7e EV, with its higher speed limit, posted a time that would have been the longest ever if the slower versions hadn’t been part of the same test series.

How Does This Stack Up Against the Old Record?

The previous slowest lap was set by a Trabant P50** in 1960, clocking in at 16 min 1 sec. Ligier’s diesel and electric runs have dramatically extended that benchmark, underscoring the unique nature of the JS50’s design philosophy.

Design & Dimensions of the JS50

Parameter	Measurement	Notes
Overall Length	3,250 mm	Compact for city maneuverability
Width (including mirrors)	1,450 mm	Fits narrow parking spaces
Height	1,530 mm	High seating position for visibility
Wheelbase	2,050 mm	Balances stability and agility
Curb Weight	520 kg (diesel)	Light enough for fuel‑efficiency

Feature Comparison: Diesel vs. Electric JS50

Feature	Diesel JS50	Electric JS50 (VSP)
Powertrain	0.8 L turbo‑diesel	Single‑motor 48 V electric
Peak Power	45 hp	50 hp (electric torque)
Top Speed	28 mph	28 mph
Range	≈310 mi (diesel)	≈119 mi (electric)
0‑30 mph	6.8 s	5.9 s
ADAS	None	Basic lane‑assist (optional)

Engine Specifications

Spec	Diesel	Electric Motor
Displacement / Motor Size	0.8 L	48 V, 15 kW
Torque	90 Nm @ 2,000 rpm	140 Nm @ 0 rpm
Fuel System	Common‑rail injection	Lithium‑ion pack (30 kWh)
Emissions	Euro 6d‑TEMP	Zero tailpipe
Transmission	5‑speed manual	Single‑speed reduction

Price Comparison Across Versions

Model	Base Price (EUR)	Included Options
JS50 Diesel (VSP)	13,990	Standard infotainment, heated seats
JS50 EV (VSP)	15,450	Fast‑charge kit, digital cockpit
JS50 L7e EV	17,800	Higher‑speed suspension, sport rims
JS50 Diesel (L7e)	14,600	Reinforced chassis, upgraded brakes

What the Lap Means for Everyday Drivers

For most owners, the Nürburgring record is more of a badge of honor than a performance promise. Yet the data tells a useful story: the JS50 delivers exceptional fuel economy, predictable handling, and a driving experience that feels “big” despite its modest size. The diesel version’s ability to travel 310 miles on a single tank means a weekend road‑trip from Paris to the German border can be done without a pit stop. Meanwhile, the EV’s instant torque offers a more playful feel in city traffic, even if range remains a limiting factor.

Real‑World Example

During a recent test drive in the French Alps, a friend of mine borrowed a JS50 Diesel. He reported that climbing steep, winding mountain passes felt surprisingly stable, and the diesel’s low‑end torque made overtaking slower traffic effortless – all while sipping fuel at the rate of a small scooter.

How Ligier’s Record Stacks Up Against Competitors

Other quadricycle manufacturers, such as Micro Mobility (the maker of the Ami) and Piaggio (with the MP3), typically focus on urban maneuverability and price. None have attempted a lap at the Nordschleife, let alone claimed a record. This gives Ligier a unique marketing angle: a vehicle that can survive the most demanding race track on Earth, even if it does so at a “pedestrian” pace.

Future Outlook – Could the JS50 Go Faster?

Legislation caps the top speed for the standard voiture sans permis at 28 mph, but the L7e classification allows up to 47 mph. If European regulators were to relax these limits, Ligier could potentially unleash a version that challenges the 20‑minute barrier on the Nordschleife, positioning the quadricycle as a true “micro‑sports car”. Until then, the brand will likely focus on improving electric range and adding driver‑assist features like basic lane‑keeping assistance.

Conclusion

Ligier’s claim of the slowest ever lap around the Nürburgring isn’t a gimmick – it’s a clever demonstration of engineering efficiency, heritage, and the unique place the JS50 occupies in the automotive landscape. Whether you’re a diesel enthusiast, an early‑adopter of electric quadricycles, or simply someone who enjoys quirky automotive milestones, the JS50’s performance on the ‘Ring is a reminder that speed isn’t the only metric that matters. For more details, visit the official announcement on Ligier’s website.

FAQ – Ligier JS50 and the Nürburgring Record

Q1: What exactly is a “voiture sans permis”?

A: It is a French‑legal vehicle class that can be driven without a full driver’s licence, often limited to 14‑year‑old drivers and capped at 28 mph (or 47 mph for L7e).

Q2: How does the diesel JS50 achieve 94 mpg?

A: The small turbo‑diesel engine, lightweight chassis, and low top‑speed limit combine to keep fuel consumption exceptionally low.

Q3: Why were the electric versions transported to the track?

A: Their on‑board range (≈119 mi) isn’t enough for a 310‑mile round trip, so they were shipped to preserve battery charge for the lap.

Q4: Is the JS50 suitable for daily commuting?

A: Absolutely. Its compact dimensions, low running costs, and ability to be driven without a traditional licence make it ideal for city commuters.

Q5: Can I upgrade the diesel JS50 to a higher top speed?

A: Speed is limited by law for this class. A legal upgrade would require re‑classification to L7e, which involves stricter safety standards.

Q6: How does the electric JS50’s torque compare to the diesel?

A: The electric motor delivers 140 Nm from zero rpm, providing quicker acceleration despite the same top‑speed cap.

Q7: What safety equipment is standard on the JS50?

A: Dual front airbags, ABS, electronic stability control, and a reinforced roll‑cage are standard across all variants.

Q8: Does Ligier plan to produce a higher‑performance version?

A: Rumors suggest a sport‑tuned L7e model with a more powerful electric motor is in development, but no official dates have been announced.

Q9: How does the JS50’s price compare to a traditional city car?

A: Starting at around €13,990, it’s significantly cheaper than most compact hatchbacks, especially when you factor in lower fuel and maintenance costs.

Q10: Will the record be officially recognized by the Nürburgring?

A: Yes. Ligier submitted timing data and the lap was verified by the Nürburgring’s official timing partner.