Nissan introduces the electric crossover Ariya

Just a day after BMW introduced the iX3, today Nissan introduced the all-new electric crossover Nissan Ariya. This is Nissan’s first electric car built on newly developed Alliance CMF-EV platform.

Let’s see some important parts of the press release.

Intelligent Power: formidable EV performance for a wide range of needs

The Nissan Ariya’s all-electric drivetrain is an example of seamless integration of advanced EV technology. It takes the excitement and potential of zero-emission mobility to the next level by integrating excellent power delivery, charging capabilities and extended range.

With five core models offered for the European market, including two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, the Ariya meets the driving needs of a wide range of customers.

The Ariya 63kWh two-wheel-drive model is ideal for urban and suburban commuters looking for quality and style in their next-generation EV. The Ariya 87kWh two-wheel drive models expands on the 63kWh with an upgraded powertrain and additional range for those looking to venture on longer journeys.

The Ariya e-4ORCE 63kWh all-wheel-drive model offers an attractive balance in performance and value in its segment. With almost no compromise on range, this model offers ample performance and innovative new technologies, including twin electric motors and e-4ORCE control technology that deliver balanced, predictable power to all four wheels. The Ariya e-4ORCE 87kWh all-wheel-drive will offer a longer range coupled with pure power thanks to the e-4ORCE technology. Topping the range, the Ariya e-4ORCE 87kWh Performance will benefit from a higher power output and will be the epitome of the best performance-technology combination.

Whether the two- or all-wheel-drive model, the power and performance of the Ariya will bring excitement back to the daily commute and urge drivers to explore further. To allow even more exploration, the Ariya will be rated to tow up to 1500kg.

A smooth, powerful on-road presence

Staying true to Nissan’s heritage of producing fun-to-drive, exciting cars, the Ariya’s all-new EV platform has been optimized to deliver exceptional handling. The battery pack sits under the center of the vehicle to ensure a low center of gravity and near-equal weight distribution, front and rear. The battery pack’s flat design and integrated cross-member in the battery case, allow the Ariya to have a flat floor and impressive structural rigidity. Suspension components are optimized to take advantage of this, ensuring stable handling and a comfortable ride while also suppressing vibrations and noise from entering the cabin space.

In the rear, the suspension packaging, including the multi-link system and rear electric motor (if equipped), create an exceptional balance of ride comfort, handling and performance.

With three drive modes, including Standard, Sport and ECO (e-4ORCE models include an additional Snow mode), drivers have the ability to customize their experience to match their mood and surroundings. The Ariya’s highly rigid body structure and super responsive rack-and-pinion steering system provide the vehicle with crisp turn-in response, while its near 50:50 front/rear weight distribution – made possible by the battery positioned under the floor in the middle of the vehicle – helps the Ariya behave in a predictable manner through all types of corners. The flat underbody aerodynamic nature assists with a stable ride while a tight turning radius adds to the Ariya’s capability not only on the highway, but also narrow streets and parking.

While every Ariya version will feature impressive driving range in its segment, it also boasts remarkable range recovery and quick-charge performance using Combined Charging System (CCS) in Europe. This is thanks in part to its battery thermal control feature, which constantly optimizes the operating temperature of the liquid-cooled battery.

The Nissan Ariya 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 for peace of mind during long journeys.

Intelligent Driving: a high-tech, low-stress driving experience

The Ariya ensures high levels of comfort and confidence by providing occupants with the latest Nissan technologies, including an enhanced ProPILOT version. 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.

ProPILOT with Navi-link offers an enhanced experience from the acclaimed ProPILOT system first introduced with the LEAF. With the addition of road data and sensing technology, the system is able to offer a smoother ride during single-lane highway driving. By connecting with the navigation system and utilizing 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, giving all occupants a pleasant drive.

When the destination is reached, ProPILOT Park takes the stress out of parking by helping recognize an open parking space and guiding the vehicle into it. Parking is completed in three easy steps making front, reverse and parallel parking a stress-free experience (available in limited markets).

In addition to all-new advanced technologies creating a smoother, relaxing ride, the Nissan Ariya also features driver assistance features that have been enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of drivers around the globe. e-Pedal, first introduced in the Nissan LEAF electric car, allows the driver to launch, accelerate and decelerate by using only the accelerator pedal. e-Pedal works by initiating the electric motor to start the deceleration process of the vehicle when easing off the accelerator pedal. When the vehicle comes to a complete stop, the brakes are automatically applied to hold the vehicle in place. If stationary for long periods of time, the electric parking brake is utilized. On low-traction surfaces, the brakes are applied simultaneously with the motor, allowing all four wheels to safely slow down the vehicle. On Ariya equipped with e-4ORCE, regenerative torque is distributed not only to the front wheels, but also the rear, resulting in an even smoother and more comfortable ride when breaking to a complete stop.

The Nissan Ariya is also equipped with additional innovative 360-degree safety features such as the signature Nissan Safety Shield, which includes Intelligent Around View Monitor, Intelligent Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent Emergency Braking, and Rear Automatic Emergency Brake.

Europe market specs

North America market specs

Japan market specs

Biggest pros

• Nissan has finally adopted CCS as its fast charging standard in North America and Europe.
• The optional 22 kW on-board also demonstrates that the automaker is starting to listen to its European customers.
• TMS (Thermal Management System) with active-cooling is finally here.
• Different combinations of motors and batteries.

Biggest cons

• Bad efficiency. Nissan is still far behind Korean automakers when it comes to efficiency. The Nissan Ariya is even less efficient than the recently introduced BMW iX3… If the Nissan Ariya had the same efficiency, the 87 kWh battery would be enough for 541 km (336 miles) in WLTP, instead of 500 km (311 miles).
• It’s at least a year away. This electric car will face really tough competition and its specs might not look good by then.

Anyway, the Nissan Ariya is scheduled to go on sale in Japan in mid-2021, where it will be priced at around 5 million yen (41.003 euros). The Ariya is also planned to go on sale in Europe, China and North America by the end of 2021. The U.S. pricing will start around 40.000 USD (35.057 euros).