After showing it off as a static prototype at the 2013 Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan is now showing off a working prototype of its revolutionary zero-emissions BladeGlider in Brazil. The BladeGlider is the next step to Nissan’s on-going commitment to the development of zero-emissions vehicles that started with the Leaf.

While the Leaf is more of a commuter car, the BladeGlider is designed to be an agile yet efficient EV that aims to bring a new dimension to driving fun and excitement. After two years of design, engineering, and development, the BladeGlider has evolved into a real-life study into the potential of advanced EV development.


The advanced chassis features a unique configuration with a narrow front track and a wider rear track for optimum aerodynamics and handling stability. Meanwhile, high-waisted, rear-hinged dihedral doors provide a dramatic means to get in and out of the cabin. The open roof of the BladeGlider is reinforced with an integrated rollover protection.

Inside, the BladeGlider features a unique 1+2 seating configuration with the driver having all instrumentation mounted directly on the steering wheel. Flanking the center display are two screens that serve as replacements to the traditional side mirrors. An alternative to door-mounted mirrors, this dual screen set-up further improves the aerodynamic efficiency.


The interior of the Nissan BladeGlider reflects the vehicles' sporting intentions, with four point safety harnesses for each occupant. The seats offer exceptional support to sides and legs of the driver and passengers. The seats are trimmed in a highly tactile blend of fabric and epoxy resin coating, resulting in a tough and grippy material that has the effect of comfortably securing occupants in place.

Power is 100 percent electric thanks to an exceptional powertrain performance delivered by Nissan’s technical partner for the BladeGlider: Williams Advanced Engineering. 0-100 km/h takes less than five seconds and top speed is in excess of 190 km/h thanks to the dual 130-kW electric motors situated at the rear wheels.


The system also features torque vectoring, controlling the torque delivered to the driven wheels, improving the handling even further. With torque vectoring, 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.


Two color trims – Cyber Green and Stealth Orange – are used for the upper portions of the seat back and framed with a silver reflective material to create an eye-catching, sporty look. The base of the seats is in black, patterned material, with a band of green and orange trim framing the cushion.