Nyobolt and Ian Callum’s design and engineering firm have presented a new sportscar concept that can charge in just six minutes, the Nyobolt EV. This vehicle is not only interesting for its battery technology but also for its styling, which pays homage to the original Lotus Elise. The man responsible for the concept’s styling is Julian Thomson, who is also the father of the Lotus Elise S1. The Nyobolt EV was designed in 2021 before Thomson took on his current role as the design director of GM Advanced Design Europe.
Design and Features
The Nyobolt EV is 100 mm wider and 150 mm longer than the original Elise, but it remains compact and lightweight despite having a fully electric powertrain. The carbon fiber bodywork looks more muscular compared to the original, thanks to the addition of modern styling traits. The mid-engined proportions are further enhanced thanks to the higher beltline, the toned-up fenders, and the bespoke 19-inch alloy wheels. The round LED headlights double as functional intakes, while the quad LED taillights also integrate air ducts. Other features include mirror-replacing cameras, side intakes, a rear deck that looks like a vented engine cover, a ducktail spoiler, and a removable composite roof panel that turns it into a roadster. Finally, the Type 2 charging port is mounted at the B-pillar, hidden behind a sleek cover.
Ultra-Fast Charging Revolution
The Nyobolt EV’s ultimate highlight is its battery technology. The sportscar comes fitted with a small 35 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, contributing to its low weight of around 1,000 kg. The driving range is up to 250 km, with a full charge completed in just six minutes using existing charging infrastructure technology. This number is comparable with the refueling time in a gas station, and faster than anything else we have heard to date. Rapid chargers are usually the enemy of long-lasting batteries, but Nyobolt claims that the unit was tested for over 2,000 fast-charging cycles without showing a significant loss in performance.
Production and Availability
Nyobolt claims that its battery will enter production in early 2024 and is “ready to be adopted” across the automotive industry. Callum and Nyobolt did not go into specifics about the output figures of the electric powertrain but said that a functional engineering prototype will follow shortly. Unfortunately, there is no word on whether the Nyobolt EV concept will reach production. If that happens, it would certainly be good news for fans of the Lotus Elise, which was discontinued in 2021, effectively being replaced by the Emira all-rounder.
Conclusion
The Nyobolt EV is an exciting concept that combines futuristic battery technology with classic styling. The six-minute charging time is a game-changer, and if Nyobolt’s claims about its battery technology are true, it could revolutionize the automotive industry. The Lotus Elise-inspired design is also a nice touch, paying homage to one of the most iconic sports cars of all time. While there is no word on whether the Nyobolt EV will reach production, it is certainly a concept worth keeping an eye on.
