The Ariel Motor Company, renowned for its ultra-lightweight, high-performance vehicles, has unveiled a groundbreaking addition to its lineup: the E-Nomad concept. This fully-electric variant of their iconic Nomad sportscar brings together the thrill of off-road driving with the environmental benefits of zero emissions, setting a new standard in the industry.
At the heart of the E-Nomad lies an innovative powertrain that combines a 450V 41kWh battery with a rear-wheel-drive system capable of delivering an impressive 210kW (281bhp) of power. Weighing just 896kg, the E-Nomad is not only remarkably light but also exceptionally quick, boasting a 0-60mph time of just 3.4 seconds. This agility, coupled with its advanced drivetrain, ensures that the E-Nomad performs admirably across a range of terrains, from rally stages to off-road rock crawling.
One of the most striking features of the E-Nomad is its commitment to sustainability. The vehicle’s body panels are crafted from a flax fibre bio-composite, which is 9% lighter than carbon fibre and results in a 73% reduction in CO2 emissions during production. This material not only contributes to the car’s light weight but also enhances its aerodynamic efficiency, allowing for a range of up to 150 miles on a single charge.
The battery system, developed in collaboration with Rockfort Engineering, represents a significant advancement in electric vehicle technology. Utilizing the latest Pegasus V3 modules, the E-Nomad’s battery pack offers class-leading energy density while maintaining a total weight of under 300kg. This balance of power and weight is critical in ensuring that the E-Nomad retains the high-performance characteristics that Ariel vehicles are known for, even in the most challenging conditions.
In terms of design, the E-Nomad’s bodywork is not only lighter but also more aerodynamically efficient than its internal combustion engine counterpart. The use of natural flax fibres and bio-composite materials marks a significant shift towards more sustainable manufacturing practices, without compromising the vehicle’s performance or aesthetic appeal. Additionally, the car’s bodywork is backed by ‘Power Ribs,’ reinforcing the panels while further reducing weight and CO2 emissions.
Ariel’s Director, Simon Saunders, emphasizes that while the E-Nomad is currently a concept, it strongly hints at the company’s future direction. “Once it has been through our usual, gruelling testing regime, we could opt to add E-Nomad alongside its ICE Nomad 2 sibling,” Saunders said, underscoring Ariel’s commitment to exploring the potential of electric powertrains in low-volume, high-performance vehicles.
The E-Nomad also showcases the latest in battery and thermal management technology. Its 450V battery pack is equipped with integrated cooling and heating systems, ensuring optimal performance in a variety of conditions. Whether on the road or off, the system maintains the battery at the ideal temperature, extending its life and ensuring consistent performance.
The powertrain is complemented by a Cascadia Motion IDM90 motor, which combines the motor, gearbox, and inverter into a compact unit weighing only 92kg. This drive unit powers the rear wheels through a single-speed transmission, providing constant torque and stability across various terrains. The system is also water-cooled, further enhancing its reliability and performance.
In addition to its impressive performance credentials, the E-Nomad is fitted with advanced driver controls and instrumentation. The new ABS system, with selectable on- and off-road modes, combined with regenerative braking and multiple driving modes (ECO and Sport), ensures that drivers can tailor the vehicle’s performance to suit their preferences and the demands of the terrain.
Ariel’s unveiling of the E-Nomad concept at the Cenex Expo 2024 represents a bold step forward in the company’s evolution. While the E-Nomad is not yet available for purchase, Ariel is keen to gauge customer reactions and explore the full potential of this innovative platform. As the automotive world increasingly turns towards electric power, Ariel’s E-Nomad concept stands as a testament to the possibilities that lie ahead, blending exhilarating performance with responsible engineering.
The future of off-roading has never looked more exciting—or more sustainable.
