AIM debuts EV SPORT 01

Nagoya-based engineering firm, AIM, known for its specialisation in automotive development, presented its latest creation, the EV SPORT 01, at the renowned Automobile Council. 

This marked AIM’s first-ever participation in the event, as the company expanded its focus to include electric vehicle (EV) development through the AIM NEV PROJECT.

EV Sport 01

Image: Aim

Since its establishment in 1998, AIM has continuously embraced technological challenges to enhance its expertise. Notably, the company gained recognition for its engine development for endurance races, which commenced in 2005. AIM’s car, equipped with a naturally aspirated 5.5-litre V10 engine, competed in the 24 Hours of Le Mans for three consecutive years from 2008 to 2010, consistently achieving respectable finishes. While Audi’s diesel turbo cars dominated the top three positions, AIM secured an impressive 4th place overall.

During a press conference, Mr. Yukinori Suzuki, the representative director of AIM, discussed the driving force behind the development of the AIM EV SPORT 01. Following their accomplishments at Le Mans, AIM collaborated with a British company to jointly develop a motor, which found applications in London buses. Additionally, AIM focused on chassis development, prioritising driving enjoyment by emphasising torque vectoring and agile handling, instead of solely focusing on acceleration performance, commonly associated with modern EV sports cars.

EV Sport 01

Image: Aim

The decision to embark on the chassis project arose from a fortuitous encounter last year. While attending the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the United Kingdom, Mr. Suzuki, accompanied by Mr. Shiro Nakamura, former senior managing executive officer of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and the current representative of SN DESIGN PLATFORM, was inspired by the EVs showcased at the event. The idea to pair a body with the EV chassis and partake in a hill climb event took root. Recognizing the potential of combining the chassis with an aesthetically appealing body, Mr. Suzuki enlisted the expertise of Mr. Nakamura to design the body.

Mr. Nakamura commenced the design process shortly after the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and the actual work spanned a period of nine months. The resulting compact carbon body measures under 4 metres in length, departing from the typical futuristic EV design language. Instead, it showcases a classic and authentic aesthetic, characterised by round headlights and taillights, eschewing sharp edges. The design pays homage to the timeless sports cars of the 1960s, providing a sense of nostalgia and purity.

EV Sport 01

Image: Aim

Related: Mercedes-Benz Vision One-Eleven concept honours C111 prototypes

Regarding the commercialization prospects of the AIM EV SPORT 01, Mr. Suzuki stated that it remains a matter for future consideration. However, AIM is committed to furthering EV development and plans to unveil a second version of their EV within the year. Mr. Nakamura expressed his enthusiasm for future developments, emphasising that the AIM EV SPORT 01 represents just the beginning. He also highlighted that the project serves as a testament to Japan’s capabilities in realising innovative vehicles.

The post AIM debuts EV SPORT 01 appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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