A lightweight, go-anywhere EV? Ariel reveals E-Nomad concept.

Aug 28, 2024 at 3:48 PM
Electrifying the Off-Road Experience: Ariel Unveils the Groundbreaking E-NomadThe British carmaker Ariel, known for its iconic Lotus Seven-inspired vehicles, has taken its off-road expertise to new heights with the unveiling of the all-electric E-Nomad. This innovative concept car promises to deliver the same thrilling performance and go-anywhere capabilities as its gas-powered counterpart, but with a sustainable twist that could reshape the future of outdoor adventures."Electrifying the Off-Road Experience: Ariel Unveils the Groundbreaking E-Nomad"# The Lightweight Revolution: Pushing the Boundaries of Electric MobilityAriel's approach to the E-Nomad has been centered on minimizing weight, a critical factor in maximizing the efficiency and performance of electric vehicles. By tipping the scales at just 1,975 lbs (896 kg), the E-Nomad is less than half the weight of most EVs currently on the market. This dramatic reduction in mass is a testament to Ariel's engineering prowess and its commitment to delivering an exhilarating driving experience.The E-Nomad's 41 kWh battery pack, sourced from Rockfort Engineering, is strategically positioned behind the cabin, replacing the traditional internal combustion engine and fuel tank. Ariel claims that these "best-in-class" pouch cells offer exceptional energy density, contributing to the vehicle's impressive power output of up to 281 hp (210 kW) and a peak torque of 361 lb-ft (490 Nm).# Sustainable Design: Embracing Eco-Friendly Materials and ManufacturingAriel's pursuit of sustainability extends beyond the E-Nomad's powertrain. The company has made a conscious effort to explore more eco-friendly manufacturing methods, recognizing the importance of reducing the carbon footprint of low-volume vehicle production.One of the standout features of the E-Nomad is its use of flax-based composite material from Bamd Composites. This natural composite offers a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional carbon fiber, yet it still manages to provide a 9% weight reduction over conventional materials. Ariel has also revolutionized the tooling process for these panels, cutting the carbon emissions by more than 11,000 lbs (5,000 kg) in the process.# Aerodynamic Optimization: Enhancing Efficiency and RangeRecognizing the crucial role of aerodynamics in maximizing the range of electric vehicles, Ariel has meticulously redesigned the E-Nomad to improve its aerodynamic efficiency. The fully covered roof and reduced gaps between the spaceframe chassis bars have resulted in a 30% reduction in drag, a significant improvement over the standard Nomad model.While the E-Nomad's rather boxy shape still presents some aerodynamic challenges, Ariel has managed to achieve a respectable range of 150 miles (240 km) on a single charge. This impressive figure, combined with the vehicle's exceptional off-road capabilities, makes the E-Nomad a compelling option for adventurous individuals seeking a sustainable and capable outdoor companion.# Elevating the Driving Experience: Innovative Features and VersatilityAriel has not only focused on the powertrain and sustainability aspects of the E-Nomad but has also incorporated several innovative features to elevate the driving experience. The vehicle boasts a new antilock braking system with selectable on- and off-road modes, allowing drivers to tailor the braking performance to their specific terrain and driving conditions.Furthermore, the E-Nomad's integration of one-pedal driving and an eco mode showcases Ariel's commitment to providing a versatile and user-friendly electric experience. The eco mode's ability to reduce power and torque in favor of extended range will undoubtedly appeal to those seeking to maximize the vehicle's efficiency during longer off-road excursions.# The Future of Ariel's Electric JourneyWhile the E-Nomad is currently a concept, Ariel's director, Simon Saunders, has expressed the company's willingness to gauge customer interest and potentially add the electric model alongside its existing internal combustion-powered Nomad 2. This forward-thinking approach demonstrates Ariel's commitment to adapting to the evolving needs and preferences of the modern off-road enthusiast.Alongside the E-Nomad, Ariel continues to develop its other highly anticipated electric project, the "Hipercar" coupe, which boasts a staggering 1,180 hp (880 kW) of power. With this level of performance and Ariel's unwavering pursuit of innovation, the future of the brand's electric offerings promises to be nothing short of thrilling.