- The Ariel E-Nomad concept/prototype shows the low-volume manufacturer’s production intent for a future electric variant.
- It has up to 150 miles of range, it can DC fast charge and even though it has a heavy battery pack, it’s still very light compared to regular cars.
- Ariel will continue testing this model and evaluate production plans based on feedback.
The Ariel Nomad is the ideal vehicle for a fun, spirited drive down a back road, regardless if it’s paved or not. Soon you may be able to silently slide the Nomad around corners with the upcoming electric version previewed by the E-Nomad concept. In place of the usual high-revving Honda-sourced engine that usually powers these cars, Ariel has equipped this prototype with a punchy electric motor and a good-size battery.
Because it has to carry around a heavy battery pack, the Ariel Nomad EV weighs about 400 pounds more than the combustion version, but it’s still reasonably light at 1,975 lbs. The main culprit for the weight gain is a 41-kilowatt-hour battery pack weighing 660 lbs. The manufacturer says it provides a range of up to 150 miles.
DC fast charging from 20 to 80% takes 25 minutes, but the peak charging power is not specified.
It powers a single 282-horsepower electric motor mounted on the rear axle with a peak torque rating of 361 pound-feet. That’s considerably more than the original Nomad, whose 2.4-liter non-turbo Honda K24 engine makes 235 hp and 221 lb-ft. The Nomad R supercharged version is still the most powerful and quickest variant, with 335 hp and a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 2.9 seconds. Newer Nomad variants are powered by a turbocharged engine out of a Ford Focus ST.
The E-Nomad is not far off, with the sprint to 60 mph happening in 3.4 seconds. It has a single-speed transmission, which eliminates the fun of rowing through the combustion variants’ slick-shifting six-speed transmissions, but it keeps the limited-slip differential, so you should have no problem getting it sideways and holding the slide.
Gallery: Ariel E-Nomad concept
The drive unit comprises a motor made by BorgWarner, a gearbox and an inverter, which weigh just over 200 lbs together. The motor and battery pack have separate cooling circuits and the battery can also be warmed by the onboard 5 kW heater.
Ariel says the E-Nomad features a new-design composite body with panels made from an experimental flax fiber-based material. The body may make the E-Nomad look a bit strange, almost like some sort of amphibian with more of its tube frame chassis hidden compared to the regular model, but it helps cut drag by 30%.
According to Simon Saunders, Ariel Director, “While the E-Nomad is a concept, it does show production intent for the vehicle and hints at just a small part of Ariel’s future. Once it has been through our usual, gruelling testing regime we could opt to add E-Nomad alongside its ICE Nomad 2 sibling.”
There are no concrete plans to put this version of the Nomad into production, but Ariel says it will be testing the vehicle “to explore the full spectrum of potential future applications.”
The Ariel Nomad Goes Electric: Still Incredibly Light
Ariel Motor Co., known for producing lightweight and high-performance vehicles, has recently announced a new addition to their lineup: an electric version of their popular off-road vehicle, the Ariel Nomad. Despite the shift to electric power, the Nomad retains its signature lightweight design, making it a truly unique and innovative offering in the electric vehicle market.
The original Ariel Nomad was lauded for its impressive power-to-weight ratio, delivering exhilarating performance both on and off the road. With the introduction of an electric powertrain, many enthusiasts may have been concerned that the Nomad would lose its lightweight and agile characteristics. However, Ariel has managed to successfully adapt their design principles to create an electric version that is just as light and nimble as its petrol-powered predecessor.
One of the key factors in maintaining the Nomad’s low weight is the use of a lightweight and compact electric motor. By carefully selecting materials and optimizing the design, Ariel was able to ensure that the electric Nomad remains true to its roots as a lightweight performance vehicle. The result is a vehicle that offers instant torque and acceleration, without compromising on handling and agility.
The transition to electric power also brings a number of benefits to the Nomad. With zero tailpipe emissions, the electric version is environmentally friendly and suitable for off-road adventures in sensitive environments. Additionally, the electric powertrain offers smooth and quiet operation, enhancing the overall driving experience.
In terms of performance, the electric Ariel Nomad does not disappoint. The instant torque provided by the electric motor allows for quick acceleration and impressive off-road capabilities. With a range of battery options available, drivers can choose the configuration that best suits their needs, whether it be for short bursts of high-performance driving or longer excursions off the beaten path.
Overall, the Ariel Nomad Goes Electric is a testament to Ariel’s commitment to innovation and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the automotive industry. By combining cutting-edge electric technology with their renowned lightweight design expertise, Ariel has created a truly exceptional vehicle that is sure to thrill enthusiasts and off-road adventurers alike. The electric Nomad proves that going electric does not have to mean sacrificing performance or excitement, and sets a new standard for electric off-road vehicles.