Introducing Nissan’s Ariya NISMO: Europe’s Latest High-Performance Electric Vehicle
On the fifth anniversary of World EV Day, Nissan is preparing to launch its pioneering high-performance electric vehicle, the Ariya NISMO, on European roads. This model stands out with its sleek, dynamic appearance and is entirely electric, setting a new standard for electric vehicles without compromise.
Incorporating Nissan's rich NISMO legacy while preserving its Japanese-inspired aesthetics, the Ariya NISMO integrates the advantages of the standard 87kWh Ariya e-4ORCE with several motorsport-inspired enhancements to offer an even more thrilling driving experience. Consistent with its NISMO brethren, it combines stunning performance with everyday accessibility, presenting an affordable, practical vehicle.
The Ariya NISMO’s streamlined, aerodynamic design leverages its potent, nearly silent electric powertrain to provide a sensation of effortlessly cutting through the air. Newly added aerodynamic elements such as spoilers and air curtains, inspired by Formula E, alongside a new front splitter equipped with canard vortex generators, enlarged lower bumpers, twin diffusers, and a ducktail rear spoiler, dramatically reduce the vehicle’s lift coefficient by 40%, achieving a CL of 0.11 compared to 0.18 for the regular Ariya.
Exclusive 20-inch ‘NISMO’-embossed ENKEI wheels, matched with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres, enhance traction and on-road safety while reducing unsprung mass and boosting brake cooling. Created using ENKEI’s proprietary ‘MAT Process’, the Ariya NISMO’s cast-aluminium wheels offer a strength-to-weight ratio akin to forged wheels, enabling thinner spokes that facilitate cooling.
The Ariya NISMO enhances the performance of the 87kWh Ariya e-4ORCE with a NISMO-tuned powertrain, boosting power to 435 PS (429 HP / 320 kW)—an increase of nearly 130 PS—whilst maintaining an impressive torque of 600 Nm. This enables the Ariya NISMO to accelerate from 0-62 mph in five seconds and from 50-70 mph in just 2.4 seconds.
Yet, the Ariya NISMO is not solely about straight-line speed. Thanks to enhancements in the e-4ORCE four-wheel drive system and other modifications, it surpasses the GT-R NISMO regarding turning and lateral forces. Utilising insights from the renowned ATTESA system of the GT-R, the Ariya NISMO’s specially adjusted e-4ORCE system maximises mechanical grip by dynamically adjusting power distribution to each wheel 10,000 times per second. With a new 60:40 rear bias, the system offers a sportier feel than the standard Ariya e-4ORCE, improving line-tracing performance by 12%.
The suspension system has been thoroughly re-engineered, including adjustments to stabilisers, spring rates, and shock absorber settings, to achieve better balance, body control, and agility at higher speeds. Furthermore, the steering has been recalibrated to provide increased resistance and a more direct feel as speeds increase.
Coupled with the introduction of ‘i-Booster’, which enhances braking performance with revised regeneration tuning, drivers can fully enjoy the thrill and agility of NISMO while maintaining a sense of security on the road. Additionally, a new ‘NISMO’ driving mode enhances responsiveness to driver inputs, making the driving experience even more exhilarating.
The all-new Ariya NISMO features a meticulously redesigned interior, from the sport-orientated seats, upholstered suede-like material and stitched NISMO logos to its sophisticated interior finishings. The NISMO spirit permeates every aspect of the interior, from new digital gauge designs to the brand’s iconic red stitching on the steering wheel, along with NISMO-red accents, creating a sporty and high-quality ambience. This elegant atmosphere is further enhanced by a new blackened wood texture throughout the vehicle, offering a contemporary and sophisticated look.
Initially available in one standard launch specification with a NISMO Stealth Grey exterior finish—previously seen on the GT-R—sales of the Ariya NISMO will commence in January 2025. However, UK customers can secure priority access to be one of the first to purchase a right-hand-drive Ariya NISMO by contacting their local Nissan dealer later this month. Further details will be released in due course.
Regular sales are set to begin in January 2025, and the Ariya NISMO will be available in all European markets where the model is already offered, excluding Cyprus, Malta, and Northern Ireland.
