A Japanese engineering company, AIM, is making waves in the automotive industry by proving that lightweight and electric power can go hand in hand. Their latest creation, the EV Sport 01, is an electric sports car concept that challenges the notion that performance and weight are mutually exclusive.
The design of the EV Sport 01 was crafted by SN Design Platform, the design studio of Shiro Nakamura, the former design chief at Nissan. Nakamura is known for his work on several standout Nissans and Infinitis, including the current R35 Nissan GT-R. With this impressive pedigree, the design of the EV Sport 01 is sure to turn heads.
Under the sleek exterior, the EV Sport 01 boasts a powerful electric drivetrain. It packs an impressive 483 horsepower and weighs just 3,141 pounds. To put that into perspective, the Lotus Evija hypercar, one of the lightest electric vehicles in production, weighs over 3,700 pounds. AIM has achieved this remarkable lightweight performance by utilizing a dual-motor rear-wheel-drive setup developed in-house. The motors are powered by an 81 kWh lithium-ion battery that provides ample energy for the car’s high-powered performance.
To further enhance its lightweight characteristics, the EV Sport 01 features a chassis constructed with a carbon-fiber central tub and aluminum sub-frames. This combination not only keeps weight to a minimum but also ensures a strong and rigid structure. The car is equipped with double-wishbone suspension both at the front and rear, allowing for optimal handling and control.
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AIM has also incorporated carbon-fiber composite materials into the body of the EV Sport 01. This not only adds to the car’s lightweight nature but also contributes to its striking appearance. The use of carbon fiber allows for greater design flexibility while maintaining strength and rigidity.
The compact dimensions of the EV Sport 01 also contribute to its overall weight reduction. Measuring just a little over 153 inches long, it is designed to seat two occupants comfortably. This compact size not only aids in the car’s agility but also adds to its aesthetic appeal.
AIM, based in Nagoya, Japan, has deep expertise in powertrain technology. The company has even competed in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race with a prototype running their own 5.5-liter V-10 engine. Under the team name Oreca Matmut AIM, they achieved an impressive fourth-place finish overall in the 2010 race. This rich racing heritage and engineering prowess are now being applied to their electric powertrain development, specifically the APM200 series of electric motors. AIM plans to offer these motors to other manufacturers and potentially incorporate them into future production vehicles, including the EV Sport 01.
Excitingly, AIM is currently evaluating the feasibility of producing a limited run of the EV Sport 01 for the market. This means that enthusiasts may have the opportunity to own this cutting-edge electric sports car in the near future. To showcase their creation, AIM will present the EV Sport 01 at the renowned Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2023. This event, held in the United Kingdom from July 13-16, attracts car enthusiasts and industry professionals from around the world, providing the perfect platform for AIM to showcase their technological prowess.
In conclusion, AIM’s EV Sport 01 sets a new benchmark for lightweight electric sports cars. With its powerful electric drivetrain, lightweight construction, and sleek design, it combines performance and efficiency in an impressive package. AIM’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology is evident in the EV Sport 01, and it will surely leave a lasting impact on the automotive industry. As we eagerly anticipate its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, we can only imagine the future possibilities AIM will bring to the table, revolutionizing the way we think about electric vehicles.
