The demonstration models feature an advanced chassis configuration with a narrow front track and wider rear track for aerodynamic efficiency and handling stability.
The BladeGlider features high-waisted, rear-hinged dihedral doors and an open roof reinforced with an integrated roll-over protection structure.
Wheel-mounted controls for the BladeGlider's systems feed into a 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, these dual screens are intended to improve aerodynamic efficiency. The driver sits in arrowhead formation slightly in front of two passengers.
Power is 100 percent electric, with powertrain performance delivered by Nissan's technical partner for the Nissan BladeGlider project, UK-based Williams Advanced Engineering. Maximum speed of the demonstration models is in excess of 190km/h (115mph), with 0-100km/h (0-62mph) taking less than five seconds. The rear wheels' drive is provided by two 130kW electric motors – one for each wheel.
The system features torque vectoring, controlling the torque delivered to the driven wheels, which means that if the car starts to understeer, it automatically sends more torque to the outside wheel to restore the handling balance.
Designed to add to the driving experience rather than govern it, the torque vectoring system has three settings: off, agile and drift mode.
Power is supplied by a high performance, five module lithium-ion 220kW battery. Bespoke cooling systems have been developed for both the battery and the motors.
Developed from a concept car first debuted in 2013, Nissan describes the all-electric sports car as a precursor to a suite of future technologies that will combine Intelligent Mobility, environmentally friendly impact and sports-car driving capabilities.
For more from Nissan, check out this behind-the-scenes look at the company’s TITAN XD plant.