Nissan has been using its all-electric Ariya SUV as part of the security fleet at its Arizona Testing Center (ATC) in the Sonoran Desert since fall 2023, replacing gasoline-powered vehicles.
Over the past year, the vehicles have accumulated approximately 30,000 miles while patrolling the 3,000-acre facility, where temperatures often surpass 115°F (46°C).
The Ariya models deployed at ATC are equipped with e-4ORCE all-wheel drive, a system designed to manage traction on uneven terrain.
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According to Nissan, the vehicles have been driven on dirt roads, gravel paths, and muddy surfaces created by seasonal monsoons. Security personnel at the facility reported that the SUVs handled the conditions without major operational issues.
“These vehicles are in near-constant operation, including significant idling time, making the Ariya ideal for reducing fuel costs and eliminating tailpipe emissions,” explained Owen Thunes, senior manager of Test Operations at ATC.
Nissan stated that the switch to electric vehicles for security patrols has reduced fuel costs and emissions at the testing center. The company has also installed Level 2 charging stations and solar panels at the site to support the fleet’s energy needs.
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Owen Thunes noted that the Ariya’s instant torque and lower maintenance requirements compared to internal combustion vehicles were factors in its selection for the security role. The Arizona facility, which tests vehicles under extreme environmental conditions, serves as a development hub for Nissan’s global models.
The Ariya’s use at ATC comes as Nissan continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup. While the company highlighted the SUV’s performance in desert conditions, competitors and industry analysts have emphasized that rigorous, independent testing remains a standard benchmark for evaluating EV durability in extreme environments.
