The electric cars They ceased to be a bet for the automotive industry and became the reality that demands the greatest amount of technical and development resources for each of the manufacturers in the world. For those of us who grew up among the sound of the combustion engine, the accelerations accompanied by the roar of the exhaust and the screeching of the tires, it will take time to adapt to a silent mobility but, without a doubt, it is the only way towards a future free of CO2 emissions and other harmful gases for the environment.
From the Jarama circuit, in Madrid, Spain, Nissan prepared a first contact with its new electric crossover called Ariyawhich takes up the path that the Leaf began in 2011. This new model is a technological marvel, not only for the powertrain, but also for the driving dynamics and safety that take the first step towards the autonomous future.
As I told you, it is configured on the image of a crossover, a trend that most brands resort to, since the battery pack is housed under the seats, as well as the hardware that allows the conversion between AC and DC, and vice versa. This forces the floor of the vehicles to be wider, which translates into a smaller distance in relation to the floor. In the end, this solution plays, in most cases, in favor of performance because it further lowers the unit’s center of gravity.
The design of this model is accompanied by a deep aerodynamic work and a pleasant aesthetic simplicity, without elaborate lines that many end up classifying as “daring”. According to the information provided by the manufacturer, aesthetic elements stand out in its design, such as the line that runs the length of the vehicle, from the front headlights to the culmination of the rear. It also takes up the Japanese term iki, which “characterizes the elegant and avant-garde nature of the Ariya”. In the same way because of the Japanese 3D kumiko pattern that is present on the shield, which protects the sensors of the ProPilot system.
Other interesting elements in the Ariya’s style are the headlights made up of four 20-millimeter mini projectors, the flashing lights with sequential lighting, the aluminum wheels with an aerodynamic design that can be 19″ or 20″ as well as the accentuated drop. from the roof to give it a touch of sportiness.
To drive
The best is when driving but before it was necessary to become familiar with the vehicle, its reactions and feel. For this reason, with the company of an expert from the brand and in a controlled environment as a route with a specific layout was designed, I drove the first kilometers in the Ariya.
The version tested was the one equipped with two electric motors with which it has permanent all-wheel drive, which gives life to the e-4ORCE system. This advance, as occurs in other models, allows a torque distribution between both axles but also between the right and left tracks, a tool that plays in favor of performance. For example, when driving through a winding area, it is possible to accelerate progressively without the danger of suffering a loss of control, since the system will automatically adjust the traction towards the wheel that has the greatest contact with the ground, thus achieving greater grip. better cornering and more control for the driver.
This technology is accompanied by the improved system e-Pedal which was originally released with the Leaf. Now, using only the accelerator, it is possible to start from zero, accelerate, maintain a speed and stop completely. Among its improvements are that, in addition to the fact that it is possible to regulate the braking force, the oscillation of the body is reduced, making the ride more comfortable. First responsible for starting the braking phase is the electric motor, since it opposes resistance, if a greater force is necessary then the traditional brakes will be activated, in addition to regenerating the battery.
Already in the circuit there was an opportunity to test the driving modes that are standard, Sport Y Echowhich, as you can imagine, vary the power delivery and, consequently, increase or reduce autonomy.
After a first lap to explore the circuit, knowing the key points to turn, brake and accelerate, there was an opportunity to ride at a faster pace, almost at the top. It is undeniable that the weight of the vehicle is present, especially when braking, but it is not a dangerous situation as the systems always act to prevent a loss of grip. The steering is in charge of communicating what is necessary but is oriented towards a more relaxed driving, however, in case of increasing speed, it offers good feedback. The ride is completely silent, something that is due to its electric nature but also to the work of an aerodynamicist whose Coefficient of Drag is 0.29, which eliminates air noise.
