The Nissan BladeGlider – more than just a concept The Nissan BladeGlider is more than a concept; its both a proposal for the future direction of Nissan electric vehicle (EV) development and an exploratory prototype of an upcoming production vehicle from Nissan. Nissan crafted the vehicle’s unique architecture to give the driver and passengers “sustainable exhilaration” - a fresh electric vehicle driving experience based on peerless technology and exotic styling, combining form with function. BladeGlider has its conceptual roots in two aerial images: the soaring, silent, panoramic freedom of a glider and the triangular shape of a high performance “swept wing” aircraft. Engineering-wise, its developmental focus was aerodynamics, achieving low drag while generating road-hugging downforce. With its narrow, 1.0 metre lightweight front track and wide, stable rear track, the radical architecture all boils down to aerodynamics and balance. Having the front wheels close together reduces drag and enhances manoeuvrability for high-G cornering power, assisted by its 30/70 front/rear weight distribution ratio, and aerodynamic downforce is created by the highly rigid yet lightweight carbon-fibre underbody, hence the lack of drag-inducing wings. When BladeGlider matures into a production car, it could be Nissans first use of in-wheel motors which will provide rear-wheel propulsion with independent motor management, while also contributing to freedom of upper body design and space-efficient packaging. To power the electric motors, BladeGlider employs Nissans innovative lithium-ion battery technology, proven in Nissan LEAF. Battery modules are mounted low and towards the rear to enhance stability and handling. Its tightly streamlined deltoid body comprises a tough and structurally optimised chassis wrapped in ultra-lightweight, yet strong and stiff, carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) finished in a pearlescent white colour, and features a sculpted contour that is both functional and beautiful. “BladeGlider was conceived around delivering a glider-like exhilaration that echoes its lightweight, downsized hyper-efficient aerodynamic form,” said Shiro Nakamura, Nissan’s senior vice president and chief creative officer. Inside the canopy, the cockpit seats three in a triangular configuration with the driver centre-forward. Amid simple yet edgy interior styling cues, an aircraft-type steering wheel and state-of-the-art instrumentation technology complete the glider-like image. To support maximum EV cruising efficiency, the IT system can display relief maps and atmospheric conditions. “I think that the excitement of the racing car should be mirrored in the excitement of driving the road car,” said Ben Bowlby, director of Nissan Motorsport Innovation, who has supported the BladeGlider’s development. “I think there are elements we can bring from the race track to make these future road cars more exciting, more fulfilling and give greater driving pleasure.” As a final touch, the drivers seat automatically slides laterally when you open the door, enabling easy access to passenger seats. If this really ends up being a production car, wed definitely be among the first in line to try it out.
Posted on: Sat, 09 Nov 2013 08:11:17 +0000