The sleek black cars glide swiftly and quietly along Croatia’s sun-soaked coast, their glossy surfaces reflecting the blue ocean. No loud engines, no smelly petrol fumes—just the soothing sound of the sea and the cheers of onlookers. This is the Nikola Tesla EV Rally Croatia 2022, now in full swing.
This one-of-a-kind rally, exclusively for electric vehicles, has been held in Croatia since 2014. Spanning 850 km, the “Green Electric Route” cuts through some of the country’s most stunning scenery. Starting in Rovinj on Monday, the route winds along Istria’s coast, passes through Šibenik, and concludes in Zadar on Saturday, June 11th. Open to anyone with an electric car and good driving skills, the rally attracts participants from all over Europe. They come not just to race, but to promote e-mobility and relish some of the continent’s most picturesque roads.
The Nikola Tesla EV Rally aims to spotlight e-mobility, renewable energy, and sustainable travel, all while highlighting Croatia’s natural beauty. Around 50 teams put their driving talents to the test on closed circuits, scenic roads, and even airfields. Each day’s leg finishes in a public venue, giving spectators a chance to see the cars up close and appreciate the potential of electric vehicles.
This initiative is a team effort between E.V.A. BLUE—a leading green tech company in Croatia since 2011—the Croatian Tourist Board HTZ, and local municipalities. The rally also receives support from various local tourist boards, like those in Šibenik and Zadar. Recognized by McCann marketing agency as one of the top 10 most innovative premium projects globally, it has also been part of the Istria Ecoxperience Tourist Guide since 2018. It’s fitting that such a unique event takes place in the homeland of Nikola Tesla, who valued originality and innovation.
Throughout the rally week, drivers enjoy stays in luxurious 4 and 5-star hotels and savor some of Croatia’s best wine and cuisine. The event fosters camaraderie through shared meals and offers days of relaxation and sightseeing. Participants can sail around the Kornati islands, visit the UNESCO World Heritage town of Trogir, or explore Krka National Park, among other activities.
The rally concludes on Saturday with final skill tests at the Višnjik Sport Center in Zadar, followed by an award ceremony led by the Mayor of Zadar. The winners are celebrated near the “Greeting to the Sun” solar panel art installation. Even if you missed this year’s rally, you can still explore Croatia’s “Green Electric Tourist Highway.” Charging stations are available at top tourist spots like Rovinj, Paklenica National Park, Smiljan, Poreč, Zagreb, Zadar, and many more.
This rally is all about green energy and sustainability, and it’s shaping the future. Visit Croatia to get inspired for your next e-mobility adventure.
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