MEDIA RELEASE: Nissan unveiled its ground-breaking BladeGlider prototype today in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with Williams Advanced Engineering playing an important role in the car’s creation as Nissan’s technical partner.
First seen as a concept car at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan utilised Williams Advanced Engineering’s expertise in electric powertrains, aerodynamics and chassis dynamics to build two prototypes at the Williams factory in Grove, Oxfordshire. One will be on static display in Rio de Janeiro at the Olympic Park, while the second will be used in Rio for dynamic rides to select media and VIPs.
The demonstration vehicles feature an advanced three seat conceptual configuration with a narrow front track and wider rear track for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency and chassis dynamics. The vehicle layout also features a very focused central driving position which further accentuates the sense of driver involvement. The fully electric concept, which was designed as a glimpse into the future of electric vehicles (EVs), features exceptional performance delivered by Williams Advanced Engineering’s battery and motor technology with a top speed in excess of 190km/h, with 0-100km/h taking less than five seconds.
BladeGlider further builds on a successful collaborative relationship between Williams Advanced Engineering and Nissan on a number of previous projects.
Speaking about the project Craig Wilson, Managing Director of Williams Advanced Engineering, said; “At Williams Advanced Engineering we like to use our expertise in automotive engineering to help customers push the boundaries with their new products. This is exactly what Nissan is doing with BladeGlider, a real-life study that shows the potential of EV cars in terms of styling and performance. We were delighted to be involved with the project and Nissan’s forward-thinking approach to EVs.”
Daniele Schillaci, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., added; “Thanks to the partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering on the BladeGlider project, Nissan has been able to explore the potential for a high performance EV under the philosophy of Nissan Intelligent Mobility. With BladeGlider, we want to challenge the public’s expectations of what an EV could look like and the performance it can deliver.”
