Nissan to Present Fuel Cell Concept in Paris

Nissan Motor Co.'s TeRRA concept is an fuel cell-powered SUV driven by three electric motors that eliminate the need for a driveshaft tunnel. Nissan will unveil the oddly styled electric vehicle at the Paris auto show in two weeks.

The TeRRA's front wheels are driven by the same single-motor electric system used in the company's Leaf EV. Each rear wheel has its own in-wheel electric motors that are variants of the company's PIVO concepts.

All three motors are powered by Nissan's proprietary fuel cell, whose latest iteration has a power density of 2.5 kW per liter. Nissan says the system is smaller and one-sixth as costly as its first-generation fuel cell stack in 2005.

Nissan says the TeRRA is intended to be an "urban-relevant" SUV that appeals to young, "always-on" consumers who want a secure but eco-friendly driving experience.

The exterior's sharp angles, high belt line and pronounced fender creases are traditional SUV styling cues writ large. Inside, the vehicle offers a softer and more welcoming environment with flowing lines and blond wood trim. The main instrument cluster is a removable electronic tablet that also serves as an "intelligent" key.

The TeRRA's unusual diagonal seating arrangement puts the driver almost in the center of the front row. The front passenger seat is positioned slightly behind. The two rear seats also are offset from each other such that rear passengers look over the shoulders of those in front.