In July, Ariel revamped its Nomad off-roader, and now a new battery-powered concept version suggests that the British manufacturer is exploring an electric alternative for its customers.
This innovative model, named the E-Nomad, is set to make its official debut at the 2024 Cenex Expo, scheduled for September 4 in the U.K.
Replacing the Nomad’s standard 2.3-liter turbo-4 engine is a rear-mounted electric motor. This motor, paired with a single-speed transmission and inverter, generates a maximum output of 281 horsepower.
The E-Nomad draws power from a 41 kWh battery supplied by Rockfort Engineering, which is positioned vertically behind the seats. Ariel claims this model has a potential range of up to 150 miles based on the WLTP cycle commonly used in Europe. However, a lower range is expected when evaluated by the more stringent EPA cycle.
Ariel E-Nomad concept
The E-Nomad benefits from the existing lightweight design of the Nomad, and it incorporates new plant-based composite body panels for improved aerodynamics. This results in a total weight of just 1,975 pounds, compared to the gas-powered Nomad’s weight of 1,576 pounds. Both models boast similar acceleration capabilities, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds.
Ariel plans to further develop the concept and assess customer interest to decide if a production model should be introduced. U.S. consumers wanting the gasoline version of the Nomad can place orders now through Ariel North America, which also offers the track-oriented Atom model.
Previously, Ariel dabbled in electrification with the introduction of the gas turbine-powered Hipercar series plug-in hybrid in 2022. Borg Warner, the company behind the E-Nomad’s motor, had also revealed an electric concept based on the earlier version of the Nomad in 2019 but did not move forward with it.
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