New Ariel Atom

A new version of Ariel's has been launched. Although it looks similar to the old one, the latest 2.0 litre engine is from from the new Type R with a power output of 245bhp in normally aspirated form and 300bhp in the supercharged version, but the new engine will deliver more torque lower down the rev range. There's a new ECU, a new fuel system and twin-outlet exhausts, too.
Other improvements, according to designer Simon Saunders, come from changing the angle of the chassis' aluminium bracing tubes to allow larger drivers more space and using bigger rubber engine mounts to reduce vibration. But there's also a more precise gear change, uprated dampers and better wind shielding. Many of the improvements are geared towards the US market, where the £30,000 Atom is hoping to have success.