Ariel Motor Company Limited is a British automotive firm known for its high-performance vehicles. Founded in 1991, the company has carved a niche in the automotive industry with its unique approach to car manufacturing. This article explores the company's journey from its inception to its current status as a renowned manufacturer of performance vehicles.
The Founding Years
Ariel Motor Company was established in 1991 by Simon Saunders, initially under the name Solocrest
Ltd. Saunders, a transport design lecturer, had a vision of modernizing the classic Lotus Seven. Together with his student, Niki Smart, he developed computer-aided designs for a new sports car. Despite initial rejections from several sports car companies, Saunders was determined to bring his vision to life. This determination led to the creation of the Ariel Atom, a car that would later become synonymous with the company's brand.
In 1999, the company underwent a significant transformation, changing its name to Ariel Motor Company Ltd. This change marked a new chapter in the company's history, as it began to focus on producing high-performance vehicles. The company is based in Crewkerne, Somerset, and is one of the UK's smallest automotive companies, with just 30 employees producing up to 100 cars per year.
The Ariel Atom: A Game Changer
The Ariel Atom is perhaps the most iconic vehicle produced by the company. Known for its lightweight and high-performance capabilities, the Atom is powered by a Honda Civic Type-R engine and gearbox. It is the world's first road-going exoskeletal car, featuring no bodywork or roof, and is built entirely around a tube chassis. This design makes the Atom incredibly light, weighing less than 500 kg.
The Atom has undergone several iterations since its introduction. The Atom 2, introduced in 2003, featured a 2-liter Honda Civic engine. The Atom 3, launched in 2007, included a new gearbox and a "KZ" Type-R motor. In 2018, Ariel announced the Atom 4, a completely revised model with a turbocharged engine and numerous design improvements.
Expanding the Product Line
In addition to the Atom, Ariel Motor Company has expanded its product line to include motorcycles and other vehicles. In 2014, the company announced the Ariel Ace motorcycle, powered by a Honda 1237cc V4 engine. The Ace was designed to be produced in similar volumes to the company's car-based products.
In 2015, Ariel introduced the Nomad, a road-legal buggy designed with the same principles as the Atom. The Nomad features a 2.4-liter Honda engine and is designed for off-road adventures. More recently, Ariel has ventured into electric vehicles with the announcement of the HIPERCAR, an electric sports car that uses advanced propulsion technology.
Ariel Motor Company continues to innovate and push the boundaries of automotive design. With a focus on performance and unique design, the company remains a significant player in the niche market of high-performance vehicles.
