Nissan BladeGlider Concept

Nissan has a way of putting things in perspective and you will notice this everytime you read a Press release from the company. So, when the concept car from their stable is as radical as the BladeGlider you expect some flamboyance. Hence, when Nissan says that the BladeGlider, transforms "from 'driving' to 'gliding' in a hyper-agile and ultimately efficient EV that shifts the engineering paradigm to reveal a new dimension of driving fun and excitement" - you take their word for it.

 

What we have here is the BladeGlider, a concept that promises the utmost driving pleasure for the driver as well as the co-passenger. It is a physical demonstration of the innovation and excitement of Nissan's Zero Emissions Mobility leadership. Though, the starting point of this project was a clean slate, the BladeGlider has its conceptual roots in two aerial images: the soaring, silent, panoramic freedom of a glider and the triangular shape of a high performance 'swept wing' aircraft. And then there are the upward-swinging doors which just look fantastic.

 

Just like the DeltaWing and ZEOD RC, the BladeGlider gets a narrow front track and wide rear. This helps to minimize drag and optimize stability while the underbody aerodynamics makes sure that it stays glued to the track. It is a radical concept, yes and many of you would think that this is the last time you'll get to see it. But Nissan has other plans as it wants to see the BladeGlider mature into a production car. Infact it could be Nissan's first use of in-wheel motors.

 

To power the electric motors, BladeGlider employs Nissan's lithium-ion battery technology, proven in Nissan LEAF. Battery modules are mounted low and towards the rear to enhance stability and handling so Nissan earns points for smart packaging.