Nissan reveals IMk electric vehicle concept for urban commuters

Nissan has unveiled the IMk, a concept car that combines chic design, cutting-edge technologies and powerful EV acceleration in a compact body to create the 'ultimate urban commuter.'

The 100% electric car hints at the new direction of Nissan's design language and how it helps bring to life Nissan Intelligent Mobility - the brand's vision for changing how vehicles are powered, driven and connected to society.

Nissan's designers and engineers looked at a vehicle segment that is prevalent in Japan and becoming more so the world over - the city car - and sought to pair it with nimble driving characteristics and connectivity to fit a wide range of needs and lifestyles.

The result is the IMk concept. More than a strictly functional city car, it is a chic vehicle that reduces driver stress while offering excitement and confidence on an EV platform.

Equipped with the latest ProPILOT advanced driver assistance technologies and seamless connectivity features, the IMk provides a glimpse of how urban-oriented cars may look and feel in the near future.

The IMk's looks and proportions reflect a minimal aesthetic, drawing on Nissan's new design philosophy, called Timeless Japanese Futurism. Adopting the simplistic nature of traditional Japanese design, the exterior is characterised by clean flowing lines.

The Nissan IMk concept's cabin meanwhile is a new type of 'room' that exudes the ambience of a cafe or lounge. A bench-style seat, with a dimpled texture, promotes a relaxing, welcome space that gives the impression of sitting on a floating cloud. The dashboard and sections of the doors are upholstered with light tonal materials, adding to the cosy atmosphere.

Other than the start button and shifter, the IMk's thin dashboard is void of physical controls. Powering up the IMk reveals cabin comfort controls and settings with soft glowing icons within the trim.

Important driving information, such as vehicle speed and navigation directions, appear in 'midair' by way of a bezel-less prism display, while customised information is communicated to the driver via holographic displays.

Drive wise, the concept car's extremely quiet operation and low centre of gravity gives urban commuters a smooth and powerful driving experience. The electric motor delivers excellent acceleration and a high level of responsiveness that is effective in stop-and-go traffic and even on steep slopes.