An unusual little thing isn’t it? This is the high-performance electric prototype from Nissan and it’s called the BladeGlider. It’s the result of the concept cars first shown at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2013 and fuse intelligent mobility, zero emissions and sportscar driving performance. Nissan has drafted in help from Williams Advanced Engineering to supply the power.
Speaking of which, it comes from a five module lithium-ion 220kW producing 286bhp – 0-62mph comes in under five seconds and BladeGlider will shoot to a top speed of 115mph. It’s rear-wheel drive and there is even a drift mode within the torque vectoring system if you fancy some sideways action.
As you may have noticed, the BladeGlider has a layout reminiscent of the McLaren F1 – the driver sits in the middle with a passenger either side. The cabin is entered via rear-hinged dihedral doors, once inside you’ll find four display screens. The two main screens display speed, battery level, regeneration and torque map whilst the other two screens act as wing mirrors and feed of camera installed behind the front wheels to give improved aerodynamics.
The BladeGlider comes in two colour trims – Cyber Green and Stealth Orange, which are used for the upper portions of the seats which are lined with a blend of fabric and epoxy resin to give high level of grip and durability. The passengers will get extended legroom thanks to the three-seat layout and they’ll be able to enjoy a panoramic view thanks to a seamless cockpit windscreen.
Carlos Ghosn, President and Chief Executive Officer, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., said: “These prototypes epitomise Nissan’s drive to expand its Intelligent Mobility philosophy, where driving pleasure combines with environmental responsibility. Nissan believes that enthusiasts should look forward to a zero emission future and BladeGlider is a perfect demonstration of that. It’s the electric vehicle for car-lovers.”
Two models of the BladeGlider will be presented in Rio de Janerio – one will go on static display whilst the other will offer rides to media and VIPs during the Olympics.