Ahead of 2019 Tokyo Motor Show, Nissan has
unveiled the IMk, a fully electric concept car that showcases the brand’s
Intelligent Mobility vision as well as the new direction for its design
language, dubbed “Timeless Japanese Futurism.”
The IMk
“combines chic design, cutting-edge technologies and powerful EV acceleration
in a compact body to create the ultimate urban commuter.” The boxy look is reminiscent of
vehicles that are prevalent in Nissan’s home market – namely kei cars – and the
dimensions reflect this – 3,434 mm length, 1,512 mm width and 1,644 mm height.
Adding to this are plenty of unique details that are inspired by the simplistic
nature of traditional Japanese design.
For instance, the Akagane paint scheme reflects a
reddish copper colour that points towards artisans who use the metal to create
functional works of arts. Meanwhile, the V-motion signature grille and
headlamps feature a trellised, woodwork-type impression. These lines, which you also see
on the bumpers, wheels, tyres, windows, tailights, roof and rear spoiler,
attempt to mimic the flowing patterns of mizuhiki, a thin twine made of
Japanese rice paper.
More elements of Japanese craftsmanship are evident
inside the lounge-like cabin, with wood slats in the lower door section being a
nod to the Japanese wood joinery technique of kigumi. Meanwhile, the bench-style seat
with a dimpled texture, the use of light tonal materials on the dashboard and
sections of the doors, and Akagane-coloured accents in various areas represent
contemporary cues.
There’s very little in the way of
physical controls, with just the start button and shifter on the IMk’s thin
dash. Upon startup, comfort controls and other settings are illuminated within
the copper trim, while a bezel-less prism display shows important driving
information just in front of the steering wheel.
There’s no exact details on the electric powertrain
used here, but Nissan did confirm the IMk employs the latest ProPILOT and
connected technologies, the latter including Invisible-to-Visible (I2V) and
Nissan Energy Share (Vehicle-to-Home) systems.
