The Mile Miglia, a crown jewel in Italy’s illustrious racing history, has been captivating motorsport aficionados for nearly a century. Known for its challenging 1,000-mile route that winds through picturesque mountain passes, this race tests the limits of both drivers and their machines. This year, an all-electric edition of the competition saw a Polestar 2 take on this historic challenge.
Central Italy boasts a 60-mile stretch of road, the SP65, nestled between Florence and Bologna. Though its name may not inspire excitement, the road itself is a dream for any driving enthusiast. Its gentle curves and rolling hills carve a path through the Apennines, offering a breathtaking backdrop for a thrilling drive.
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Yet, this tranquil landscape of Tuscan wheat fields, sandstone villas, and sun-drenched vineyards is also the proving ground for high-performance supercars. Modena and Sant’Agata Bolognese, home to the legendary Ferrari and Lamborghini factories, are just a stone’s throw away, where supercars regularly roar through the countryside.
Every June, this serene setting transforms into the stage for the Milie Miglia, one of the world’s most prestigious racing events. This race has a storied history filled with tales of daring aristocrats, fierce rivalries, and the legendary feats of motorsport icons like Tazio Nuvolari, Stirling Moss, and Alfonso de Portago. Their exploits have etched the race into the annals of racing lore.
Over the years, the race has evolved. While Stirling Moss set a blistering average speed record of 99 mph in 1955, today’s competition is divided into timed stages, blending speed with strategy. Open to both professionals and amateurs, this unique five-day festival of automotive prowess attracts a diverse array of participants, united by their passion for racing.
Embracing modern trends, the Mile Miglia now includes a “green” edition, the 1000 Miglia Green, exclusively for electric vehicles. Maintaining the traditional 1,000-mile distance, this event reflects the shifting landscape of motorsport towards sustainability, without compromising on the competitive spirit.
This year’s 1000 Miglia Green saw a landmark victory for the Polestar 2, driven by Italian duo Mirco Magni and Alessandro Ferruta. They held off six other competitors to clinch the first win for a Swedish car in the event’s history. “It was an exhilarating experience, especially battling neck-and-neck with the runner-up until the final stage,” Mirco shared post-race. “Winning this race with the Polestar 2, and being the first driver to do so twice, is a phenomenal achievement.”
The Polestar 2’s performance was impressive, particularly its new powertrain’s efficiency. “The Long range Single motor exceeded my expectations, averaging around 14 kWh/100 km, and covering over 550 km without needing a charge,” Mirco noted. This efficiency was crucial for enduring the race’s demanding length.
As the event gains popularity, organizers anticipate even larger fields in the future. But Mirco is unfazed by the prospect. “The Italian fans’ enthusiasm for my Polestar was incredible. I’m already looking forward to racing again next year,” he said.
Congratulations, Mirco! We eagerly await your return to the Mile Miglia.
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