Ariel Nomad Electric: Soul Sold to the Devil?

Amazing sensation machine, the Ariel Nomad replaces its 4-cylinder Honda engine with a 285-horsepower electric powertrain.

Ariel Motor Company, a British manufacturer known for its low-volume lightweight vehicles designed for road, track, and off-road use, has just unveiled the E-Nomad concept, an entirely electric version of its Nomad off-roader.

With acceleration comparable to its internal combustion engine counterpart, the new E-Nomad concept can reach 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds and retains the Nomad’s high-performance off-road capabilities. Weighing only 896 kg, the E-Nomad features a bio-composite body made from natural fibers, which is recyclable and enhances aerodynamic efficiency for a range of up to 240 km.

Ariel’s engineers designed, developed, and manufactured the zero-emission E-Nomad concept at the company’s headquarters near Crewkerne in Somerset. Based on the recently launched Ariel Nomad 2, the new model is powered by a 41 kWh, 450-volt battery that feeds a rear-mounted motor, transmission, and inverter, producing a maximum output of 210 kW (285 hp).

Everything falls apart?

Thanks to a single ratio transmission, this power, combined with a torque of 490 Nm, allows the rear-drive car to deliver exceptional on-road performance while remaining stable and controllable on difficult terrain.

Simon Saunders, director of Ariel, states: “Although the E-Nomad is a concept, it shows an intention for vehicle production and provides a glimpse into a small part of Ariel’s future. Once it has passed our rigorous testing program, we may consider adding the E-Nomad alongside its thermal counterpart, the Nomad 2, and we will closely monitor customer feedback on this concept car.”

The E-Nomad’s 450-volt battery, specifically developed for the car by Rockfort Engineering, uses new adaptable Pegasus V3 modules that integrate high-energy-density lithium-ion pouch cells.

Weighing less than 300 kg, the battery unit helps minimize the E-Nomad’s total mass. It incorporates cooling and heating systems to extend battery life by maintaining an optimal temperature both on-road and off-road, as well as on the track. Positioned behind the driver/passenger bulkhead, the battery is compatible with both AC (Type 2) and DC (CCS2) fast charging, allowing the E-Nomad to be charged on a normal household supply or via a dedicated fast charger in under 25 minutes from 20% to 80%.

A bit of sensation anyway?

The E-Nomad uses a Borg Warner Cascadia Motion IDM90 motor combined with a single-ratio transmission, weighing only 92 kg. A limited-slip differential and a parking lock are also part of the E-Nomad’s specification.

To further its carbon production reduction efforts, Bamd Composites has produced a body entirely made from natural linen fibers. The long continuous cellulose fibers from the flax plants exhibit excellent tensile strength and high rigidity, while also being carbon-capturing.

To add strength and reduce weight even further, the panels are reinforced with natural bio-composite ribs. The manufacturing of this material represents a 73% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to carbon fiber and is 9% lighter than the equivalent carbon fiber material.

With an emphasis on maximizing range, the body reduces drag by 30% compared to the standard Nomad. A large part of the drag reduction comes from the roof panel, which also houses a full-sized spare wheel.

Operable with one foot!

The E-Nomad features the new ABS system with selectable modes for road and off-road, as well as regenerative braking that returns energy to the battery, allowing for one-pedal driving. Two driving modes are available: ECO and Sport. The Sport mode allows for full power and maximum performance, while the ECO mode reduces power and torque with different acceleration and regeneration characteristics to increase range.

Although the E-Nomad is not for sale, Ariel will monitor consumer reactions to inform its future plans.

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