Nissan ZEOD RC - Vehicle Overview - Nismo and Engineering Explained

Summary

In this video, the Zao Darcy, an electric racecar built for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, is introduced. Operating under the unique Garage 56, it features a dual power system combining electric motors and a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. The car boasts advanced aerodynamics, with a lift-to-drag ratio of 6:1, and a battery cooling system for efficient performance. The driver experiences a direct mechanical linkage steering system and a sophisticated dashboard with various controls. The Zao Darcy aims to complete an all-electric lap at Le Mans, showcasing the potential of sustainable racing technology.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Zao Darcy is an electric racecar designed to complete an all-electric lap at the 24 Hours of LeMans, under Garage 56, where vehicle regulations are more flexible.
• 😀 The car features a unique aerodynamic design with a narrow front end, reducing weight and optimizing the vehicle for high-speed performance.
• 😀 The Zao Darcy has a lift-to-drag ratio of 6:1, meaning the downward force on the car is six times greater than the drag force, improving speed and efficiency.
• 😀 Air ducts on the vehicle provide cooling for the radiator and the 1.5-liter engine, while also feeding the pneumatic paddle shifters.
• 😀 The Zao Darcy is equipped with a drag reduction system (DRS) that lowers the rear wing on straightaways to reduce drag and increase speed.
• 😀 The car has two power sources: electric motors (2x 120 kW motors) and a 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder gasoline engine that can be switched between for varying performance needs.
• 😀 The electric powertrain uses a 400V, 12 kWh lithium-ion battery, which can propel the car to speeds of up to 300 km/h.
• 😀 To manage heat, the battery is cooled using dielectric fluid circulating through the car to maintain optimal temperature.
• 😀 The battery and fuel tank are located centrally behind the driver, contributing to a low center of gravity and agile handling.
• 😀 The 1.5L 3-cylinder engine is capable of producing 400 horsepower and weighs just 40 kg. It uses electric motors to start, integrated with the same transmission as the electric motors.
• 😀 The car's steering is mechanical, offering direct feedback without power assistance, and the driver’s seating is low and centered for optimal handling.

Q & A

What is the Zao Darcy and what is its primary goal?

The Zao Darcy is an electric racecar designed to be the first vehicle to complete an all-electric lap at the 24 Hours of LeMans. It will operate under Garage 56, a prototype category at LeMans, where vehicles are not required to follow the same regulations as the other racecars.

How does the aerodynamic design of the Zao Darcy contribute to its performance?

The Zao Darcy features a narrow front end to reduce drag and weight. This aerodynamic design helps enhance the vehicle’s performance by lowering weight and providing a lift-to-drag ratio of six to one, which reduces drag and increases efficiency, especially at high speeds.

What are the main components involved in reducing drag on the Zao Darcy?

The Zao Darcy uses a drag reduction system (DRS) that, at high speeds, folds down the rear wing to minimize drag, allowing the car to reach faster speeds on straightaways.

What are the two power sources available in the Zao Darcy?

The Zao Darcy has two power plants: a 1.5-liter 3-cylinder gasoline engine and two electric motors. The vehicle can switch between these two systems, operating either in fully electric mode or hybrid mode with the gasoline engine.

How does the electric powertrain in the Zao Darcy work?

The electric powertrain consists of two brushless DC permanent magnet motors, each rated at 120 kW. The energy for these motors is stored in a 400-volt, 12 kWh lithium-ion battery, allowing the vehicle to reach speeds of up to 300 km/h.

What is the cooling system like for the battery in the Zao Darcy?

The battery in the Zao Darcy is cooled by a dielectric fluid that flows through an inlet, circulating through the battery to keep it at a safe operating temperature. The fluid exits the system through another outlet.

What is the significance of the battery's placement in the Zao Darcy?

The battery is located directly behind the driver, and it is surrounded by the fuel tank. This central placement helps maintain a low center of gravity, contributing to the vehicle's agility and handling.

How does the Zao Darcy use regenerative braking in its hybrid powertrain?

The Zao Darcy uses regenerative braking to recharge the battery, which helps sustain the vehicle's electric power for a full lap of the 24 Hours of LeMans. This system works alongside the 1.5-liter gasoline engine to ensure continuous power.

What kind of steering mechanism does the Zao Darcy utilize?

The Zao Darcy uses a direct mechanical linkage for steering, meaning there is no power assistance. The driver directly controls the steering wheel, providing a more connected and responsive driving experience.

What functionalities are available on the Zao Darcy's steering wheel?

The Zao Darcy’s steering wheel includes a display for various vehicle parameters, controls for the drag reduction system, engine mapping, traction control, and mode selection (electric or hybrid). It also features shift lights and paddle shifters for gear changes.