Nichols Cars and RML buddy up to build N1A

7.0-litre Can-Am homage will be built at Ray Mallock; first deliveries are expected in the summer

By Matt Bird / Tuesday, 26 May 2026 / Loading comments

It came as no surprise that the Nichols N1A was a big hit on PH: so much power and so little weight in such a pretty shape was guaranteed to be met enthusiastically. Now the project has taken a big step forward in terms of the lucky few actually getting one, with RML brought onboard to ‘support Nichols Cars through the transition from development to series production’ - a transition that often threatens to become a hurdle for low-volume manufacturers.

While there’ll never be more than a hundred of these incredible Can-Am-inspired machines, making that number is considerably more challenging than getting a working prototype out the door. And that’s where RML’s expertise from cars like the Short Wheelbase and GT Hypercar will come in very handy.

All of the Nichols N1As will be built at RML HQ in Wellingborough; what a sight they’ll make, too, with a 7.0-litre V8 stuffed into just 900kg of retro sports car body. The first ones are said to be going into build ‘imminently’, after what’s said to be ‘the final phase of development’; as much development as humanly possible sounds eminently sensible with more than 800hp per tonne, plus a manual, to contend with. We’re almost there though, folks, following what Nichols CEO John Minett has called an “exceptional response” to the N1A, with the first customer car scheduled for the middle of this year. Goodness knows how hot it will be then.

RML CEO Paul Dickinson added: “We’re proud to deepen our involvement in the N1A programme and to be entrusted with the production build. Nichols has set an uncompromising brief for a true driver’s car, and we’re looking forward to playing our part in delivering the N1A to customers.” The drive to a Sunday Service will never quite be the same again…