Nissan’s First ‘Stress-Free’ Coupé Crossover BEV Unveiled

Nissan has unveiled its latest BEV aimed at providing a stress-free driving experience – the Nissan Ariya electric coupé crossover.

The car, first seen as a first draft IMx concept in the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show but now heavily based on the version displayed at the show two years later, boasts the latest autonomous driving features and voice personal assistance. It also claims an estimated range of up to 310 miles based on WLTP combined cycle and, in the performance model, accelerate from standstill to 62mph in 5.1 seconds.

Built on an all-new Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance-developed EV platform, the Ariya employs twin electric motor on all-wheel-drive models featuring Nissan’s all-wheel control technology, e-4ORCE. The system is a development of the Nissan GT-R’s ATTESA E-TS torque split system and the Nissan Patrol’s intelligent 4X4 system.

It claims to enhance driver confidence by tracing the intended driving line over almost any road surface, while never needing to change driving style or input. When cornering on snow-covered roads, for example, the vehicle can trace the driver’s intended line thanks to motor and brake control. Vehicle pitch and dive are reduced by adding regenerative rear-motor braking to the usual front-motor regenerative braking employed by typical EV and hybrid systems today.

There will be five core models offered for the European market, including two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions. The 63kWh two-wheel-drive model is aimed at urban and suburban commuters. The 87kWh two-wheel drive models expands on the 63kWh with an upgraded powertrain and additional range for those looking to venture on longer journeys.

Likewise the Ariya e-4ORCE comes in 63kWh all-wheel-drive models and 87kWh all-wheel-drive. Whether the two- or all-wheel-drive model, the car will be rated to tow up to 1,500kg (3,300lbs).

The 63kWh versions carry a 7.4 kW charger for domestic use, while the 87kWh include a 22kW 3 phase charger for home charging. The Ariya can also support quick charging up to 130kW.

It also features Nissan’s enhanced ProPILOT autonomous driving function. Equipped as standard on the second generation Nissan Leaf, ProPILOT is a hands-on assistance system that helps drivers stay centered in their lane, navigate stop-and-go highway traffic and maintain a set vehicle speed and distance to the vehicle ahead.

The system couples with Navi-link’s road data and information to offer a smoother ride during single-lane highway driving. By connecting with the navigation system and using road map data, the hands-on driver assistance system can help adjust vehicle speed based on the posted limit. Additionally, the system can help adjust vehicle speed based on upcoming road conditions, such as smoothly slowing the vehicle before a sharp corner ahead. No release date has yet been announced.

— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in London. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_