Nissan's
new creation has everything you can ask for in a concept: a
high-performance electric powertrain, augmented reality, autonomous
capability, and a wild design.
Debuting at the Detroit auto show, the Nissan IMs concept is neither a sedan nor a crossover, although Nissan says it's closer to the former. Nissan calls it an "elevated sports sedan." It has unusual proportions, and since there is no B-pillar, it has reverse-opening rear doors that make it easier to enter. The flush lighting, invisible door handles, and wing cameras replacing traditional outside mirrors contribute to a low drag coefficient.
Debuting at the Detroit auto show, the Nissan IMs concept is neither a sedan nor a crossover, although Nissan says it's closer to the former. Nissan calls it an "elevated sports sedan." It has unusual proportions, and since there is no B-pillar, it has reverse-opening rear doors that make it easier to enter. The flush lighting, invisible door handles, and wing cameras replacing traditional outside mirrors contribute to a low drag coefficient.
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| © Motor Trend Staff |
Although it's not immediately apparent, Nissan
has given the concept a lunar theme, saying the roofline is inspired by
the shape of the moon. Gold-colored accents on the roof rails hints at
"the ring of moonlight created by an eclipse." The model receives a
paint job that evokes an imaginary material on the moon, according to
Nissan. Inside, dark fabrics set apart with light streaks are meant to
suggest moonlight and shadow.
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| © Motor Trend Staff |
On its glass roof, a geometric graphic pattern inspired by the
traditional Japanese Asanoha pattern is printed in gold. Other standout
details on the exterior include 22-inch wheels, super flush side
windows, and holographic-style rear tail lamps.
If it weren't just
a concept, drivers could choose whether to put the car in manual or
autonomous mode. When in autonomous mode, blinking blue lights notify
the outside world of its autonomous status. The interior has also been
outfitted accordingly. The steering wheel retracts in autonomous mode,
and the front seats pivot to face the rear seats for a living room-style
effect. There's no center console to get in the way of the open seating
area. Rear seating is reconfigurable. There are three seats, but the
rear outboard seats can be folded to reveal one "Premier" center seat.
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| © Motor Trend Staff |
Inside
the cabin, drivers will encounter a large screen with multiple layers.
Sensors and cameras monitor a driver's facial expressions and body
posture to determine if he or she is fit to drive. If the car senses the
driver is not capable of operating the vehicle, the IMs will bring
itself to a safe stop. The model also features Nissan's "Invisible-to-Visible" technology
first seen at CES. This augmented reality technology helps drivers see
around corners, visualize traffic jam information, and even welcome a
"passenger" from the virtual world.
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| © Motor Trend Staff |
Under the sheetmetal, the Nissan IMs concept carries two electric
motors, one at the front and another at the rear for a dual-motor
all-wheel drive setup. With the help of a 115-kilowatt-hour battery, the
system makes 483 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Range is estimated at a
healthy 380 miles. To improve the ride, the model is equipped with an
air suspension.
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| © Motor Trend Staff |
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