Nissan Ambassador Sets a New Marathon World Record with the Aid of a Custom Ariya EV

At the 2024 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, Nissan Ambassador and double Paralympic gold medallist Richard Whitehead MBE set a new Guinness World Record for a double amputee, completing the 26.2-mile course in an impressive 2 hours, 41 minutes, and 36 seconds. This achievement surpasses his previous record of 2 hours, 42 minutes, and 1 second, set just six months earlier at the TCS London Marathon.

Richard’s success is a testament to his incredible strength and determination, as well as his meticulous preparation. After setting the previous record in April 2024, he was confident he could improve his time and optimised every aspect of his training for the Chicago Marathon. Richard, who drives a Nissan ARIYA daily, wondered if his car could be further adapted to support his goal.

Nissan GB, along with engineers from the Nissan Technical Centre Europe (NTCE), Luzzo Bespoke, and Össur (provider of Richard’s carbon-fibre running prosthetics), collaborated to customize Richard’s ARIYA. The modifications allowed Richard to use the car for everyday transport while supporting his training needs.

Nissan and Luzzo Bespoke designed a bespoke training support module that fits into the boot of Richard’s ARIYA. This removable storage system safely stores his running prosthetics, tools, spare clothing, and running gels, and includes a compact coffee machine. It also features an inverter and plug sockets for recharging devices and a hidden swing-out seat for changing prosthetics, upholstered to match the car’s interior.

Additionally, Nissan and Össur integrated quick-release magnetic chargers into the ARIYA’s driver’s seat, allowing Richard to keep his prosthetic knees charged while driving. This small but useful addition saves time and reduces stress, helping him focus on his training.

Sarah Dorey from NTCE commented:

“As Nissan engineers, we’ve loved the challenge of supporting Richard on his marathon journey. We continually seek ways to make our vehicles more inclusive and accessible, and it’s been rewarding to find solutions that meet Richard’s needs while ensuring safety. It’s incredible to know we’ve helped him set a new Guinness World Record.”

This collaboration highlights Nissan’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity, demonstrating how technology can support athletes in achieving extraordinary goals.

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Nissan Ambassador Sets a New Marathon World Record with the Aid of a Custom Ariya EV

Nissan Ambassador Sets a New Marathon World Record with the Aid of a Custom Ariya EV​​

Nissan Ambassador Sets a New Marathon World Record with the Aid of a Custom Ariya EV