“Electrifying Thrills: The Tesla-Transformed Ariel Atom Redefining Fun”

In the realm of enjoyment and speed, minimalism is frequently the term associated with quickness, and the traditional lightweight performance philosophy is prominently showcased in this Ariel Atom racing vehicle. Instead of the 205-horsepower supercharged General Motors four-cylinder utilized in the Brammo-imported Atoms from that time, this outrageous machine has undergone a powertrain transformation, now equipped with the substantial Tesla motor from an earlier Model S P85 that generates approximately 540 electric horsepower to the wheels. In its original configuration, this vehicle was capable of achieving a 3-second acceleration from 0 to 60, but it’s easy to envision that with sticky slick tires and nearly triple the horsepower, it’s notably quicker now.

This specific Atom appears somewhat peculiar as it no longer features the car’s iconic contrasting intake box within the rollover structure. There isn’t truly a requirement for an air scoop when there’s no intake to supply it. The electric motor is situated low and outside the airflow, so this variant of the car might genuinely exhibit aerodynamic efficiency. Also absent are the fuel tank, engine, gearbox, and all components necessary to sustain a gasoline-powered engine. You truly grasp the minimalist nature of an Atom when it lacks an engine.

The Tesla motor, inverter, and gear reduction assembly from Tesla weigh just under 300 pounds, which is roughly equivalent to a Chevrolet LSJ Ecotec engine. This EV conversion is also energized by Chevrolet, having borrowed its 16-kWh battery pack from a Volt, which weighs approximately 400 pounds. Considering over 100 pounds of gasoline in a fully filled tank, in addition to the weight of the transmission and related components, while accounting for the lightweight Tillett carbon seats, lighter wheels, and a few other parts discarded, this vehicle might potentially weigh less than the standard Atom 2’s 1431 pounds.

Clearly, 16 kWh is not an extensive battery, and I would be astonished if this vehicle could endure even 20 minutes of intense racetrack performance, but one could certainly infer that you’d have an extraordinary time operating it. This would be an ideal car for a regional hill climber or autocross racer to dominate the competition. It appears that somewhere along the journey, someone has ended with the shiny side down, thus the roll bar bears a few, uh, imperfections. You’ll want to steer clear of that if possible.

The vendor provided a list of elements employed in the conversion, and it all appears to be quite top-notch equipment.

2006 ARIEL ATOM 2.

*TESLA P85 SWAPPED 400kw

*Tillett carbon fiber seats

*Nitron coilovers

*KC HID Headlights

*CARTEK wireless button controls and Rainlight

*OMP Steering wheel, belts and pedals

*WILWOOD hand brake, dual rear calipers

*linelock.

*Driveshaft Shop Axles

*KEIZER WHEELS F 15X10 R 15X12.5

*EXTRA SET 1552 WHEELS WITH R888R TIRES

*Exhibits some dents and scratches on the tubes from an adventurous test drive.

*listed as an off-road racer. However, it comes with a salvage title.

EV components.

*Zeva BMS

“`html

* CHEVY Volt battery module

*HSR/057 motor management

*Tesla Water Pumps

*Elcon 6.6kw Charger

* Elcon 1500w DC-DC inverter

However, all of this carries a rather hefty price tag. If you’re keen on incorporating this equipment into your collection, you can place a bid on it through eBay. The initial bidding price stands at $55,000, or alternatively, you can select the $69,000 Buy It Now option. This may appear a bit extravagant, but honestly, it’s likely hard to find anything faster for a lesser amount. Perhaps it’s worth the investment. Acquire it and share your experience with us.