If you thought the latest Nissan Juke demonstrated an improved design game from the Japanese carmaker, then hopefully the Ariya Concept previews even better things to come. Serving as one of the highlights of its stand at the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, the Ariya Concept is said to signal a new era for the company as it seeks to redefine its brand philosophy. The desire to start afresh is likely to extend beyond just design, considering the turbulent times the company has recently gone through following the demise of its former chairman, Carlos Ghosn. He is currently awaiting trial in Japan following allegations of improper financial conduct.
A striking design full of subtle detail
Somewhat unsurprisingly Nissan chose an SUV layout for the Ariya Concept. The large five-seater is a blend of sharp lines and taut surfaces that uses its Suisei Blue paint to highlight its subtle curves. At first glance, this paint appears to have a matte finish, but up close the large glass flakes produce light refractions that Nissan say is "reminiscent of a comet crossing the night sky."
A sloping roofline ensures the Ariya retains a sporty image, and a two-tone colour scheme helps to portray this impression. A high-mounted rear wing hint at the potential performance of the car. It rides on 21-inch wheels that carry a striking design with a copper colour, which is set to become the signature colour for future Nissan electric vehicles. Thin LED headlights incorporate a daytime running light signature that emphasises the V-motion design, which we've already seen on the latest Juke. At the rear, a single LED light strip spans the tail with Nissan lettering illuminated beneath it.
It's hoped that some of the interior design from the cabin of the Ariya will go on to influence future Nissan models. A single large panel stretches across the two-thirds of the dashboard and accommodates the instrument display and a 12.3-inch infotainment system. The latter is controlled by a single knob beneath it. The rest of the cabin is almost entirely free of buttons. Illuminated touch-sensitive icons are engraved into the lower section of the dashboard that is made from wood.
A new two-spoke steering wheel design places all the relevant functions within easy reach, including the latest ProPilot 2.0 driver assistance function. Earlier this year it made it's debut in the Nissan Skyline, enabling hands-off single-lane driving on a motorway. Working in conjunction with the car's satellite navigation system and detailed mapping software, ProPilot 2.0 is also capable of lane changing when prompted by the driver.
A new electric platform architecture
The Nissan Ariya concept also showcases a new "groundbreaking platform" architecture according to senior vice president of global design, Alfonso Albaisa. "A new vehicle architecture means fresh opportunities to redefine how vehicles interact with society, how an EV paired with advanced driving capabilities can offer a new perspective."
Nissan hasn't gone into much detail of platform other than to describe it in the usual sense of it being compact enough to provide a flat floor throughout the cabin. The size of the battery has not been revealed, but Nissan will continue to use the CHAdeMO type connection for rapid charging. Power goes to all four wheels through a dual front and rear drive setup. Drawing from experience learned during development of the GTR's ATESA E-TS torque split system and the intelligent 4x4 system in the Nissan Patrol, the electric powertrain uses the braking system to help manage traction and reduce wheelspin under harder acceleration.