Nissan Powers Up High-Tech Autonomous EV Concept

Nissan Motor Co. says its IMx crossover concept represents a vision for future fully autonomous, connected electric vehicles.

The carmaker unveiled the compact EV at this week’s Tokyo auto show. There are no immediate plans to produce the IMx, but Nissan reiterates its intent to launch an electric crossover vehicle by 2020.

The concept is built on the same platform as the just-launched, second-generation Leaf EV. Nissan plans to use the platform for a host of future electric models—ranging from small hatchbacks and sedans to large crossover/SUVs—and share it with alliance partners Renault and Mitsubishi.

The architecture allows the battery pack to be packaged flat into the floor to minimize space requirements. Nissan says the IMx’s next-generation, high-density battery pack can provide a 370-mile driving range—more than doubling the Leaf’s 150-mile range—and is capable of wireless recharging.

Power comes from a pair of high-output electric motors (one at each axle) that generate a combined 430 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. By comparison, Nissan’s GT-R sports coupe with a twin-turbo V-6 kicks out 565 hp and 467 lb-ft of torque.

The IMx also features a more advanced version of Nissan’s ProPilot automated driver-assist technology that debuted last year on the Serena minivan and was added to this year’s Leaf. Fitted with nine radar sensors, 12 cameras, 16 ultrasonic sensors and lidar, the concept car is designed to operate fully autonomously on command and park itself without a driver onboard. Nissan aims to launch the upgraded ProPilot system in 2022.

In self-driving mode, the steering wheel retracts into the dashboard and the seats are reclined. Large panoramic displays wrap around the bottom of the windshield and into the woodgrain paneling to help create a more open atmosphere. Occupants can control various vehicle features through hand gestures and eye movements rather than traditional knobs and buttons.

The IMx concept also is designed for vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, according to Nissan. This includes exchanging data with roadside transceivers and local businesses, as well as connecting with the power grid to maximize energy use.