Japanese carmaker Nissan is considering using its Formula E team to develop prototypes of EVs that could shape future Nismo performance models. During a media interview, Tommaso Volpe, Nissan’s Formula E team boss, said there are internal talks about how the team can aid the Nismo division in the development of future road-going electric performance cars.Currently, Nissan offers a Nismo badged version of the Ariya electric SUV, but Nissan boss Ivan Espinosa had previously said that the company has “exciting plans” for future sports cars, suggesting he wanted four or five halo models to top the line-up. While no concrete plan is in place yet, Volpe said a proposal was under consideration for the squad to develop “some prototypes based on a normal chassis that can help the Nismo division to enhance the performance of electric cars”. “We have the Ariya Nismo now, which has no influence from Formula E, but we are considering a collaboration for future models. We could do a prototype version, then they could use that as a base to develop future products.” He added. Going forward, a future test prototype is likely to be based on the twin-motor all-wheel-drive running gear of a Formula E racecar and would be focused on helping Nismo learn about optimizing the efficiency of electric performance cars and refining traction management with all-wheel-drive powertrains. Volpe said the technology transfer in Formula E to date has generally gone from road car to race car, but said that it would change with future cars. “The development of the Gen4 cars will be when potential transfers will come from the racing cars to future [road] products, because the level of performance and efficiency will be pushed even more to the limit,” said Volpe. “Also, they will be all-wheel-drive. With the Ariya, we have strong expertise in all-wheel-drive electric powertrains and controlling the grip on four wheels independently. There is a huge possibility of transfer with our future products.” Source: Autocar UK
