Nissan Motorsport brings Ariya Nismo to Europe

The Japanese motorsport brand is returning to Europe with the Ariya Nismo. The Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE forms the basis for the performance variant. While it uses the familiar 87-kWh battery, the car manufacturer promises visual modifications and better power and torque distribution. Only the price tag is still missing.

For its 40th birthday, Nissan’s performance brand is returning to the region where Nissan Motorsport (Nismo) can look back on a thirty-year history. However, although Nismo variants of the electric Nissan Leaf have been shown repeatedly over several model years, they have yet to make it to Europe. That will change with the Ariya.

Visually, the new add-on parts on the front and rear apron of the electric SUV in the Nismo look are striking. The red trim strips are particularly eye-catching. However, the electric car not only looks sharper: Thanks to the improved aerodynamics, drag has been reduced, and downforce at higher speeds has improved. That should improve the driving experience.

In addition, the further development of the motorsport brand “produces acceleration that’s powerful yet smooth and easy to control.” The Ariya e-4ORCE, which has a system output of 290 kW, provides the technical basis. It is not clear from the press release whether the Nismo variant has more power. However, the statement “delivering higher performance thanks to a tuned VDC, in combination with high grip tyres” suggests precisely that. In addition, the all-wheel drive model is said to deliver a continuous G-feel and linear acceleration even at higher speeds. The e-4ORCE all-wheel drive system, finely tuned by Nismo, should provide better power and torque distribution to the wheels. And if things do need to slow down, modified brake pads are designed to ensure reliable deceleration.

The interior has also been redesigned. Eye-catching red accents complement the predominantly black interior. These can be found in the centre console and various decorative stitchings and are intended to convey sportiness. Special Nismo seats are not only intended to be reminiscent of Formula E, but also to provide more support.

Nissan will not provide further details about the Ariya Nismo until later this year. As a result, there is currently no information on the price or the exact launch date. Visitors will be able to see the Nismo model at the finale of the current Formula E season in London on 20 and 21 July.

nissannews.com