This is Nissan’s IDS Concept, a vehicle that represents the automaker’s vision of the future of autonomous driving and zero emission EVs. It should also preview the design of the next-generation Leaf, although Nissan doesn’t say anything about that.
Unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show, the IDS study features Nissan Intelligent Driving, the carmaker’s next-generation autonomous driving technology which will equip future models starting from 2020.
The system offers two driving modes. In Manual Drive mode, the driver has control. However, Nissan Intelligent Driving will continue to provide assistance, with sensors continually monitoring conditions. In the event of imminent danger, the system will assist the driver in taking evasive action. In Piloted Drive mode, the car does all the driving, but the vehicle’s performance, from accelerating to braking to cornering, imitates the driver’s own style and preferences.
The car’s interior design reflects the fact that this is an autonomous vehicle. The cabin changes depending on whether the driver opts for Piloted Drive or Manual Drive. In Piloted Drive, the cabin becomes more spacious as the steering wheel recedes into the center of the instrument panel and a large flat screen comes out. Furthermore, all four seats can rotate slightly inward, facilitating easier conversation.
In Manual Drive, all seats face forward and the steering wheel appears along with driving meters and a heads-up display that shows route and other driving information. Interior lighting switches to blue, which Nissan says stimulates the ability to concentrate.
As for the exterior, a lot of attention was paid to the aerodynamics. The low (1,380mm) full carbon body favors a low aerodynamic drag, while the very thin 175-size tires are designed to minimize air and roll resistance. The tires are positioned close to the corners of the body in order to maximize interior space while enabling a wrap-around cabin design.
The grille pattern is shaped like a stack of ice blocks and appears transparent, matching the car’s bluish satin silver body color. Since this is an autonomous vehicle, it features various exterior lights and displays aimed at making pedestrians and others aware of its presence and intentions.
The Nissan IDS Concept is fitted with an all-electric powertrain which sources energy from a high-capacity 60 kWh battery which is said to help the vehicle drive long distances. Other technologies on the Nissan IDS Concept include Piloted Park that can be operated by smartphone or tablet, and wireless charging technologies.
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