Rockfort Engineering, renowned for its expertise in advanced EV powertrain technology, has teamed up with Ariel Motor Company to develop the highly anticipated Ariel E-Nomad. This all-electric off-roader is set to revolutionize the niche vehicle market, combining cutting-edge electric propulsion with Ariel’s renowned performance engineering.
Backed by a grant from the Niche Vehicle Network (NVN), the E-Nomad project represents the culmination of years of research and development. Rockfort’s role in the collaboration has been pivotal, designing and developing a bespoke 450V, 41kWh Lithium-Ion battery system specifically for the E-Nomad. This advanced battery is packaged to ensure optimal compatibility with the Nomad’s existing electrical and chassis systems, underscoring the production intent of this new off-roader.
Engineering Excellence Meets Off-Road Versatility
Building on a previously developed Proof-of-Concept E-Nomad, this latest iteration is primed for low-volume series production. At its core lies Rockfort’s cutting-edge 210kW battery system, offering both Type 2 AC domestic charging and CCS2 DC fast charging, enabling an 80% recharge in under 25 minutes. This capability is a testament to Rockfort’s commitment to efficiency and convenience, ensuring that the E-Nomad is as suited to urban settings as it is to rugged terrains.
Weighing under 300kg, the battery pack boasts an integrated thermal conditioning system, which not only optimizes performance but also extends the life of the pack, all while maintaining the E-Nomad’s characteristic durability. Whether tackling demanding off-road trails or cruising on highways, the vehicle’s high energy density and advanced powertrain technologies ensure an uncompromised driving experience.
Bespoke Powertrain Technology
Rockfort’s innovative 3.4kWh Pegasus V3 Lithium-Ion Battery Modules take center stage within the E-Nomad’s design. These lightweight modules offer best-in-class energy density, focusing on delivering range and performance without adding unnecessary bulk. This flexible architecture allows Rockfort to create customized powertrain solutions, making the E-Nomad an exemplar of modularity in EV design.
Further enhancing its functionality is Rockfort’s proprietary powertrain control and battery management electronics. These systems enable the vehicle’s multi-mode capability, allowing drivers to tailor performance characteristics to their specific driving needs. With safety systems fully integrated into the design, the E-Nomad remains a secure and dynamic vehicle, ready to take on even the most demanding environments.
A New Era for Rockfort and Ariel
The E-Nomad’s launch also marks an exciting new chapter for Rockfort Engineering. As the company expands its footprint, further investment and strategic partnerships are on the horizon, signaling a bright future for its EV technologies. Rockfort Director Angus Lyon shared his enthusiasm for the project: “This fantastic car will be driving around at the CENEX LCV show at Millbrook this week, marking the first public showing of both the E-Nomad and the Rockfort technologies that it contains. This is an exciting moment for Rockfort and one which shows our commitment to the design and manufacture of innovative EV technologies for the future.”
Ariel Director Simon Saunders echoed these sentiments, noting that while the E-Nomad is still a concept, it reflects Ariel’s production ambitions: “Once it has been through our usual, gruelling testing regime, we could opt to add E-Nomad alongside its ICE Nomad 2 sibling.”
With the E-Nomad, Ariel and Rockfort have produced a vehicle that bridges the gap between the rugged off-road capability of traditional combustion-engine vehicles and the cutting-edge technology of electric propulsion. As consumer interest grows, the E-Nomad could well be a driving force in shaping the future of off-road EVs.
Battery Specifications
- Battery Capacity: 41kWh, 450V (150-mile estimated range)
- Weight: <300kg
- Power Output: 210kW
- Charging: Type 2 AC and CCS2 DC Fast Charging (20%-80% in under 25 minutes)
- Safety Systems: Integrated high-voltage control, battery management, and vehicle control electronics
- Modes: Multi-mode capability with tuneable drive mapping
Rockfort Engineering’s collaboration with Ariel Motor Company represents a milestone in the development of high-performance electric vehicles. The E-Nomad’s debut marks a bold step toward the future, combining innovation, performance, and off-road prowess in one remarkable package.
