Nissan concept targets propeller heads

Geeks of the world rejoice! Nissan plans to use the Frankfurt motor show to unveil a concept aimed at "young drivers who are mostly engaged by their computer and the world via the internet".

The Japanese carmaker says the Mixim concept is inspired by computer games and, as such, its steering wheel and controls are designed to appeal to PlayStation/Xbox junkies.

Its seating configuration -- whereby the driver sits in the central one of three pews -- was last seen in the 1990s McLaren F1.

The Mixim isn't quite as rapid as the McLaren though, as its propulsion comes from a 'Super Motor' electric motor/generator and compact lithium-ion batteries. That said, Nissan claims the Mixim has "unusually rapid performance combined with a usefully extended range".

One Super Motor powers the front axle and a second drives the rear axle, effectively making the Mixim an all-wheel-drive vehicle.

The coupe's distinctive shape is dominated by a wraparound windscreen that gets its design inspiration from the visor of a crash helmet.

Diamond-shaped styling cues feature inside and out, notably on the twin air intakes to the rear of the doors and the front LED driving lights. The triangular side window links the gentle slope of the roof with the dramatic angular slash that runs through the centre of the doors.

The rear hatch opens to reveal a large luggage area behind the three seats, and there's an occasional fourth seat housed behind the front seat module.

Sitting on a 2530mm wheelbase, Mixim is 3700mm long, 1800mm wide and 1400mm high, which means it's shorter and lower than the Micra (due here in November), though slightly wider.

It tips the scales at 950kg, which is quite light for an electric vehicle (as the battery packs tend to weigh a lot).

Despite being a concept car with no guarantee of being turned into a series production model, the manufacturer claims the Mixim's development is in line with the Nissan Green Program -- an initiative to create a more sustainable mobile society.

Throughout the Frankfurt show, the Mixim will drive from a low stage via a ramp to an elevated display platform on the Nissan stand.

To comment on this article click here