BladeGlider joins the Olympians in Rio
- August 8, 2016
- Posted by: Alan Feldberg
- Category: Industry News
Nissan has unveiled a working prototype of what it describes as an ‘electric vehicle for car lovers’.
Combining the performance of a sports car with zero emissions and intelligent mobility, the company says its BladeGlider vehicles are an environmentally-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance, achieving a top speed of 190kmph and acceleration of 0-100kmph in five seconds.
Carlos Ghosn, president and chief executive officer, Nissan, said, ‘These prototypes epitomise Nissan’s drive to expand its intelligent mobility strategy, where driving pleasure combines with environmental responsibility. Nissan believes that enthusiasts should look forward to a zero emission future and BladeGlider is a perfect demonstration of that. It’s the electric vehicle for car-lovers.’
After two years in design, the demonstration models feature an advanced chassis configuration with a narrow front track and wider rear track for optimum aerodynamic efficiency and handling stability. High-waisted, rear-hinged dihedral doors provide a dramatic entry and exit to the cabin. The open roof of BladeGlider is reinforced with an integrated roll-over protection structure, providing the exhilaration of an open-topped race car with the safety of a coupé.
Wheel-mounted controls for BladeGlider’s systems feed into an advanced display showing speed, state of battery charge, regeneration mode and torque map. Flanking the central display are two screens, with the images of rear-view cameras mounted just behind the front wheels. An alternative to door-mounted mirrors, this dual screen design improves the aerodynamic efficiency of BladeGlider. The driver sits in arrowhead formation slightly in front of two passengers, who enjoy extended legroom. The view for all occupants is panoramic.
The rear wheels’ drive is provided by two 130kW electric motors – one for each wheel – while the system features torque vectoring, improving the handling even further. Power is supplied by a high performance five module lithium-ion 220kW battery. Bespoke cooling systems have been developed for both the battery and the motors.
Two BladeGliders are being presented in Rio de Janeiro this month, one on static display while the second will be offering dynamic rides to media and VIPs.
