Aerodynamic Ariya aims to exceed 500km range

Nissan will maximise its new electric crossover Ariya’s driving range by improving its aerodynamics.

Due to be launched early in Q2 of this year, the Ariya has a targeted drag coefficient of 0.297, meaning it’s expected to become the most aerodynamic crossover Nissan has produced.

From the precisely shaped body lines to strategically placed air ducts, Ariya’s advanced aerodynamics are anticipated to enhance the long-range performance of its advanced electric powertrain, Nissan says.

“Following official homologation of the Nissan Ariya later this year, we anticipate the range to improve compared to the 500km figure shared in 2020 during the world premiere,” Nissan Europe product planning vice-president Marco Fioravanti says.

“This will give drivers more efficiency and confidence to go even further on a single charge.”

Each element of Ariya’s shape was adjusted in microscopic detail by engineering teams at Nissan Technical Centre Europe in the UK.

Ariya’s flat underbody produces a stable and predictable ride, while the front-facing aerodynamic intelligent shield and clean body lines reduce drag. Refined by design teams in Japan and the UK, the result is a clean shape that helps the vehicle slice through the air, optimising it for highly efficient driving.

“With the growing shift towards electric mobility, aerodynamic testing is becoming increasingly important,” Nissan Technical Centre Europe aerodynamics and aeroacoustics engineer Sarwar Ahmed says.

“The aerodynamics of electric vehicles are directly linked to how efficiently the vehicle moves – less drag and better stability allows the customer to drive longer distances before having to recharge.”

Nissan says the advanced electric coupé crossover marks the start of a new era for its EVs.

More than 100,000 potential customers globally have expressed interest in buying the Ariya, Nissan adds.