Nissan has unveiled its new electric Ariya to the world following several concepts and teasers.
The Ariya, which comes as Nissan’s first electric ‘coupé crossover’, is built on a platform developed by the wider Renault-Nissan Alliance, and is set to deliver a claimed electric range of up to 310 miles in top-spec trim. Less powerful models return a claimed 211 miles.
The Ariya will be available with one or two electric motors (for front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations), with power outputs ranging from 217 to 394hp. Battery capacity is available in either 63kWh or 87kWh capacities. In total, there will be five different versions of the Ariya available in the UK.
When using the twin-motor, all-wheel-drive setup, the Ariya includes an all-wheel control system called e-4ORCE. Nissan claims that this technology is a direct descendant of that fitted to the GT-R sports car and the intelligent four-wheel-drive system used on the firm’s Patrol off-roader. It manages power output and braking performance and, by doing this, is able to travel along the ‘driver’s intended line’ whatever the conditions.
“By taking advantage of e-4ORCE’s precise motor control response, we’re able to control vehicle motion as soon as the brakes are applied, giving all occupants – especially passengers – a stable, smooth ride,” said Ryozo Hiraku, expert leader of Nissan’s powertrain and EV engineering division.
Ariya models in 63kWh specification come with a 7.4kW charger on-board charger for home use, while the 87kWh model comes with a 22kW three-phase charger for even quicker charging at home. Not only that, but all models are rated up to 130kw for fast-charging. Getting from 0-60mph in the most powerful Ariya models will take just over five seconds, while less powerful variants will achieve it in around 7.4 seconds.
The Ariya also utilises Nissan’s latest ProPilot advanced cruise control and lane guidance system, which now uses navigation systems to automatically detect when the car should be slowing down or speeding up. It can even slow the car if it knows that a sharp bend is coming up.
Not only will the Ariya be able to perform on the road, but it’s rated to tow up to 1,500kg, which helps to strengthen its appeal even further.
Inside, the Ariya features a 12-inch digital display ahead of the driver as well another 12-inch screen in the middle of the cabin. However, the pair have been placed alongside one another to form one single ‘plane’ that helps to give the screens a seamless, one-piece appearance.
Boot space is also on a par with rivals, with two-wheel-drive models offering 466 litres of space and all-wheel-drive versions slightly less at 408 litres.
More details on further specifications and pricing for the Nissan Ariya will be announced in the coming months.
