Completion of intensive prototype development programme triggers Nichols N1A supercar production
British 700 bhp lightweight supercar pairs contemporary construction with Can-Am-inspired design
Customer deliveries start this year with 15 ‘Icon 88’ launch editions and exclusive production of fewer than 150 total cars globally
Final prototype sign-off drive on road and track validates analogue, driver-first philosophy
Partnership with RML (Ray Mallock Ltd) underpins move to production with engineering firm’s proven low-volume, high-performance expertise
Image: First Nichols N1A customer supercars begin production – Wales – road & circuit sign-off drive
Nichols has started building customer N1A supercars, signalling the transition from prototype to production for the analogue, Can-Am-inspired British performance car. The move to production follows a comprehensive development programme focused squarely on delivering the purest, most immersive driving experience.
The final phase of development saw the Nichols engineering team focus N1A refinements on driver connection and sensory feedback. Enhancements made by the engineering team centred on amplifying the analogue driving experience and maximising driver interaction.
Nichols CEO John Minett officially signed off development following a final prototype validation drive designed to reflect real-world customer use. Beginning in South Wales, the N1A traversed the scenic, challenging roads of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons National Park) before completing a high-speed test at Pembrey Circuit. The programme demonstrated the N1A’s breadth of capability – from immersive road driving to sustained performance at the limit.
John Minett, Nichols Cars CEO: “Beginning production of our first N1A customer cars is hugely significant for everyone at Nichols. The development process has been deeply rewarding, not least because we’ve shared the car openly with customers, race drivers, and the media throughout. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and that feedback has played a valuable part in refining the prototype into the supercar we’re now building.”
In production form, the N1A stays true to its original brief as a lightweight, analogue supercar engineered to prioritise feel, balance, and mechanical honesty over digital intervention. Inspired by the McLaren M1A and developed under the direction of legendary Formula One designer Steve Nichols, the car distils decades of elite motorsport expertise into a deliberately focused road-going platform.
With a final production weight under 900 kg (sub-2000 lbs) and powered by a the optional naturally aspirated 7.0-litre V8 producing 700 bhp or standard 475 bhp V8, the N1A delivers an exceptional power-to-weight ratio of up to 780 bhp/tonne. A six-speed manual transmission further enhances driver engagement, reinforcing the car’s commitment to a fully analogue driving experience.
Alongside validating the N1A’s core philosophy, the development programme delivered a series of targeted enhancements, now incorporated into the production car. The team revised ECU calibrations to improve road and track performance, while braking changes delivered better balance under high-speed deceleration. Together, the updates ensure greater confidence and accessibility for a broader range of drivers.
New four-way adjustable dampers deliver broader tunability and greater tyre feedback, improving ride quality and precision. Spring rates have been tuned to ensure predictable balance through corners, particularly under track loads, while remaining more accessible and compliant on road. Cooling is also boosted through the adoption of a wider radiator, improving efficiency during low-speed driving and in traffic, while aerodynamic refinements include the addition of new rear diffuser and a revised rear valance.
Production is supported through Nichols Cars’ new partnership with RML (Ray Mallock Ltd), whose expertise in engineering and manufacturing low-volume, high-performance road and race cars will play a central role in the delivery of customer vehicles.
No more than 150 Nichols N1A models will be produced, with pricing starting from £450,000 ($570,000 approx.) before taxes. The initial launch edition – the ‘Icon 88’ – is limited to just 15 cars, priced from £500,000 ($635,000 approx.) before taxes. Each Icon 88 model commemorates one of the McLaren MP4/4’s 15 victories during the 1988 Formula One season when Steve Nichols was the team’s Chief Designer. Customer deliveries will begin later this year.
Nichols N1A – technical specification
Dimensions & weight
Length: 4,300 mm (169.3 in)
Width: 1,760 mm (69.3 in)
Height: 990 mm (39.0 in)
Wheelbase: 2,450 mm (96.5 in)
Weight: <900 kg (<2,000 lbs)
Performance
0-62 mph: 3.5 s (est)
Power-to-weight: 780 bhp/tonne
Engine
Standard:
6.2-litre naturally aspirated Chevrolet V8
Power: 475 bhp @ 6,000 rpm
Torque: 470 lb-ft @ 4,600 rpm
Optional:
7.0-litre naturally aspirated LS7-derived, dry-sump, hand-built, Chevrolet V8
Power: 700 bhp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque: 600 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm
Chassis & body
Bonded aluminium and carbon-fibre chassis
Carbon-fibre body panels
Suspension, steering & brakes
Independent front and rear suspension
Double wishbones with anti-roll bars
Rack-and-pinion steering
Motorsport-derived multi-piston brakes
Wheels & tyres
Front: 19-inch wheels, 245-section tyres
Rear: 20-inch wheels, 305-section tyres
Tyres: Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2
Transmission
Nichols-developed six-speed manual gearbox
Driver systems
Traction control: available
Power steering: optional
Switchable ABS: optional
