Nissan Unveils Race Helmet-Inspired Mixim Electric Car Concept

The Mixim is Nissan's crystal ball view into the future of automobiles, modeled for the Gran Turismo generation and beyond. The driver sits in the middle with two passengers--or should we call them "viewers"?--flanking the middle seat, which is designed with the feel and controls of a video game. Like a computer, it runs on only electric power, with two of what Nissan calls "Super Motors." They use compact lithium ion batteries to provide "unusually rapid performance combined with a usefully extended range." The windshield is supposed to look like a race helmet's visor, but unfortunately, it's part of a design that's pretty frightening. The Mixim almost looks like Toyota's FT-HS Concept from January's Detroit show, except smashed down by a team of angry bulldozer operators. Thankfully, it is only a concept, with no production spin-off intended. However, to show that the Mixim is fully operational, Nissan will have it driving up and down a ramp at the Frankfurt show in a few weeks.

The Mixim concept car is a compact vehicle for young drivers who are mostly engaged by their computer and the world via the internet. The driver sits centrally, with two seats either side, while the steering wheel and controls are inspired by the interfaces so familiar to computer gamers.

Powered by Nissan's 'Super Motor' electric motor/generator and using compact lithium-ion batteries, 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, giving Mixim all-wheel drive.

Mixim takes the most up-to-date electric vehicle (EV) technology and clothes it in a svelte and distinctive coupé shape. Its wraparound windscreen, inspired by the visor of a crash helmet, dominates the profile while the swept back windscreen, flowing roofline and sharply truncated rear hints at sporting performance unexpected from an electric vehicle.

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, while an upper 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 trunk area behind the three seats. An occasional fourth seat is also housed behind the front seat module.

Sitting on a 2530mm wheelbase, Mixim is 3700mm long, 1800mm wide and 1400mm high, the Mixim is shorter and lower than Micra, though slightly wider. It weighs just 950kg.

Despite being a concept car with no guarantee of being turned into a series production model, Mixim's development is in line with the Nissan Green Program, the company's publicly stated desire to create a more sustainable mobile society.

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