While simple in concept, race cars epitomize automotive ingenuity and creativity to their zenith. They’re designed down to the millimeter to be the lightest, most efficient, and most powerful machines they can be. Until recently, sustainability wasn’t a top concern in the racing space, as carbon footprints alone don’t win races. However, with the automotive paradigm shift nudging everything in the electrified direction, automakers throughout the space are now endeavoring to create powerful racers that are fully electric. A shining example of this new direction is Nissan’s newly announced Ariya Single Seater Concept.
The Ariya Single Seater Concept exists to showcase how Nissan’s all-electric powertrain can be integrated into a bespoke single-seater racing car chassis. According to Juan Manuel Hoyos, Nissan’s global marketing divisional general manager for brand and engagement, the Nissan aims to prove “the high-performance potential of the Ariya’s powertrain in a motorsports-inspired package” that also serves as a template for Nissan’s future technological endeavors. Hoyos also stated that the Ariya Single Seater Concept will explore the combination of an all-electric powertrain, dual motors, and a revolutionary all-wheel-drive system with a single-seat racing chassis. This exploration is due, in part, to Nissan’s participation in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, which played a large part in the genesis of the Ariya Single Seater Concept and which also serves as an extension of their ongoing EV research and development.
It’s clear that, in both name and design, the Ariya Single Seater Concept draws inspiration from the Ariya crossover SUV, though the Single Seater builds on Nissan’s design philosophy of “Timeless Japanese Futurism.” The front of the Ariya Single Seater Concept features a similar electrified and illuminated “V” motion design motif as found in Nissan’s current lineup; however, its sides are flushed with carbon fiber and greatly exaggerate the fluidity of the original Ariya’s design. Nissan has not announced whether or not the Ariya Single Seater Concept will go into production.
