In a bold move to mark the fifth anniversary of World EV Day, Nissan has officially announced the return of its high-performance NISMO division to Europe, spearheaded by the all-electric Ariya NISMO. This cutting-edge flagship EV blends Nissan’s latest electric vehicle (EV) technology with NISMO’s performance expertise, making it a thrilling yet practical option for enthusiasts eager to embrace the future of high-performance motoring.
A Celebration of Performance and Technology
The Ariya NISMO is more than just an EV; it is a statement of intent. By combining the advanced engineering of the standard Ariya e-4ORCE with NISMO’s motorsport-inspired enhancements, Nissan has created a vehicle that delivers both power and precision. The car’s powertrain has been significantly upgraded, increasing its output to 435 PS (429 HP / 320 kW) with 600 Nm of torque, allowing the Ariya NISMO to achieve a 0-62 mph time of just five seconds. This impressive performance doesn’t come at the cost of comfort or practicality, ensuring the Ariya NISMO stands out as an everyday performance car.
At the heart of its capabilities is a NISMO-tuned powertrain and an e-4ORCE four-wheel-drive system that enhances handling and cornering ability. Drawing on knowledge from Nissan’s renowned ATTESA system found in the GT-R NISMO, the Ariya NISMO adjusts power distribution to each wheel 10,000 times per second. This, combined with a rear-biased 60:40 power split, allows for more dynamic handling and a 12% improvement in line-tracing performance, making the Ariya NISMO not just a straight-line performer but a machine capable of tackling curves with grace.
Advanced Aerodynamics for Superior Driving Dynamics
The Ariya NISMO’s aerodynamic prowess is equally noteworthy. With elements like Formula E-inspired spoilers, air curtains, and a redesigned front splitter, Nissan has meticulously reduced the car’s lift coefficient by 40%, ensuring more stable and efficient high-speed driving. Specially designed 20-inch ENKEI wheels, paired with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres, provide not only increased grip but also improved brake cooling, all while reducing unsprung mass for better handling.
A Refined Interior for the Modern Driver
Inside, the Ariya NISMO is just as impressive. The cabin has been overhauled with a focus on luxury, sportiness, and comfort. Suede-like seats with stitched NISMO logos offer superior support during spirited driving, while the iconic NISMO-red accents and blackened wood trim provide a premium, modern feel. The attention to detail continues with a new digital gauge design that complements the sporty ambiance, ensuring that drivers are as connected to the car as they are to the road.
The Beginning of a New Era for NISMO in Europe
The Ariya NISMO will officially hit European roads in January 2025, with pre-orders available for UK customers later this month. The NISMO-tuned Ariya will be available in an exclusive ‘NISMO Stealth Grey’ finish, further enhancing its presence as a sleek, high-performance EV. For Nissan, this marks not just the return of NISMO to Europe but also the dawn of a new era of performance EVs that combine thrilling power with everyday usability.
With the Ariya NISMO, Nissan once again demonstrates its ability to push the boundaries of performance, technology, and design, delivering a vehicle that is set to redefine what it means to drive an electric car.