The Nissan IMx Crossover is unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show

Yesterday we watched a short video in which Nissan kept the shape of this electric crossover hidden under a sheet. They did not want us to see it before its presentation at the Tokyo Motor Show, but at last they have unveiled it in a photo gallery and we have been able to see it in detail. The Nissan IMx Crossover is a version of the LEAF, so this is a vehicle that captures the spirit of that model, but with a bolder and more dynamic touch. It is based on the same platform as that model and has a low centre of gravity, promises a pleasant drive and a spacious interior for four passengers.

The Japanese brand intends to take on the models of Tesla, so the battle for success in this type of vehicle is expected to be quite fierce and very rewarding for buyers, who will have a good variety of models to choose from. What does Nissan offer in this newly born segment? A car that looks attractive, aggressive and dynamic, that can move elegantly around the city and that also seems to have good off-road capabilities.

The power will come from two electric motors, one on each axle, which together deliver a total output equivalent to 429 CV and a maximum torque of 700 Nm, which guarantees good traction. This is supported by batteries that, according to the brand, will allow a range of 600 km, considerably more than the Nissan LEAF, the benchmark in this segment. Technologically, progress has also been made compared with the small electric city car.

The Nissan IMx features autonomous driving technology, which allows the driver to be dispensed with. Although we know it is still a long way from reaching the market, it gives an idea of the level Nissan aims to reach in this area, thanks to ProPILOT. When autonomous driving is activated the steering wheel retracts and the seats recline, helping passengers to relax. When ProPILOT is deactivated, both the steering wheel and the seat return to their usual position.

As with everything in Japanese culture, this vehicle has its own meaning. To create it, the designers drew on two terms from their language. “ma“, a sense of time and space, and “wa“, which represents harmony. They have created a clean, sporty design with a large windscreen, a glass roof and a very minimalist interior, since they want to prioritise comfort and autonomous driving over manual use. Obviously, when it goes into production many changes will be made, so we will have to wait and see how they bring this concept into reality.