British performance car manufacturer Ariel Motor Company is expanding its American presence through a new exclusive U.S. distribution arrangement with Forman Motorworks of Scottsdale, Arizona. For the first time, U.S. customers can access the full range of Ariel’s latest UK factory-built models.
The U.S. lineup now includes the Atom 4, the 400 bhp Atom 4R, the 525 bhp Atom 4RR, and the off-road focused Nomad 2. Forman Motorworks will serve as Ariel’s exclusive U.S. distributor and customer contact, establishing a direct relationship with Ariel in the UK. Every U.S. customer now has direct access to the latest engineering, specifications, and factory-installed options across the range, with the UK factory building every U.S.-bound rolling chassis.
“We want to ensure customers in the U.S. have a much closer connection to the cars we design and build here in England,” said Simon Saunders, founder of Ariel Motor Company. “Supplying directly from our factory means American buyers can choose from the full model range, while also enjoying the same total specification flexibility as UK customers.”
“Forman Motorworks brings longstanding experience of Ariel plus an enthusiast’s understanding of the people who buy them and the individual needs of each customer,” Saunders added. “We look forward to building a strong U.S. operation together.”
The enhanced direct supply of UK-built models marks a new chapter for Ariel in the United States, replacing the previous licensed U.S. manufacturing program. Forman Motorworks will also oversee parts, servicing, and maintenance through select support sites in strategic U.S. locations.
Forman Motorworks’ relationship with Ariel dates to January 2009, when founder Franz Forman became the first U.S. Ariel dealer. The Scottsdale-based business has since sold more than 200 new and pre-owned Ariel Atom and Nomad vehicles.
“After more than 17 years representing Ariel, we’re excited to work directly with the UK factory and introduce the latest Atom and Nomad models to American enthusiasts,” Forman said. “This new relationship allows us to build on our experience while providing the personalized service and support our customers have come to expect.”
Forman Motorworks’ first two demonstrator models, an Atom 4 and Atom 4R, are in build in the UK for delivery in Q1 2027. Order inquiries are open, with first U.S. customer deliveries planned for Summer 2027.
The U.S. range spans four models. The Atom 4 offers up to 350 bhp in a sub-600 kg (1,350 lbs) exoskeletal sports car with turbocharged Honda power. The 400 bhp Atom 4R adds revised aerodynamics and track-focused dynamics, while the Atom 4RR tops the range with a bespoke hand-built 525 bhp motorsport-spec engine, sequential gearbox and race-grade components. For gravel, mud, desert and other demanding conditions, the rear-wheel drive Nomad 2 delivers up to 305 bhp with a lightweight tubular chassis, long-travel suspension and high ground clearance.
Source: Ariel Motor Company press release via Newspress
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