The vehicles, developed from concept cars first shown at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2013, have arrived in Brazil to symbolise future technologies that will combine intelligent mobility, environmentally-friendly impact and sports-car driving capabilities.
Intelligent mobility philosophy
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.”
With the Bladeglider, Nissan’s vision was for an agile, efficient EV - a car that would ‘glide’, thanks to the near-silent performance of its electric powertrain and aerodynamic shape.
The demonstration models feature an advanced chassis configuration with a narrow front track and wider rear track for optimum aerodynamic efficiency and handling stability. High-waisted, rear-hinged dihedral doors provide a dramatic entry and exit to the cabin.
The open roof of BladeGlider is reinforced with an integrated roll-over protection structure, transforming it into an open-topped race car with the safety of a coupé.
Wheel-mounted controls for BladeGlider’s systems feed into an advanced display showing speed, state of battery charge, regeneration mode and torque map.
Flanking the central display are two screens, with the images of rear-view cameras mounted just behind the front wheels. An alternative to door-mounted mirrors, this dual screen design improves the aerodynamic efficiency of the car.
The driver sits in arrowhead formation slightly in front of two passengers, who enjoy extended legroom. The view for all occupants is panoramic, thanks to the seamless cockpit windscreen.
