nissan's IMk electric car concept is based on 'timeless japanese futurism'

japanese automaker nissan has unveiled a new compact electric car concept: the IMk. the copper-colored vehicle, which features the brand’s all-new EV platform, hints at the new direction of nissan’s design language.

images courtesy of nissan

the concept reflects a minimal aesthetic and draws on nissan‘s new design philosophy, which it calls ‘timeless japanese futurism.’ throughout the design, nissan has included details that reference traditional crafts and materials, opting for an ‘akagane’ (which means copper in japanese) color scheme that it says pays homage to artisans who formed the material into functional works of art. interlocking with the lower door section wooden slats that are a nod to the japanese wood joinery technique of ‘kigumi’, which is highlighted by concealed lighting.

‘we incorporated `japanese DNA’ into the design of the IMk,’ explains satoru tai, executive design director at nissan. ‘for example, the bumper, wheels, tires, windows, tail lamps, roof and high mount spoiler treatment borrow from the flowing patterns of mizuhiki, a thin twine made of japanese rice paper.’

‘just as mizuhiki flows naturally by design, on the IMk this flowing pattern blends the front, sides, and rear of the concept together for a completely new presence, outside and inside,’ he adds. ‘the shield, which replaces the grille in gasoline-powered vehicles, represents a new signature element in our redefined design language.’

‘it follows function with style, giving the vehicle visual strength and inspiration while also providing protection and advanced technology underneath, including sensors and electronics.’

inside the IMk concept’s cabin, nissan wanted to create a space that is akin to a cafe or a lounge. it features a bench-style seat with a dimpled texture and light tonal upholstery on the dashboard and sections of the doors. a dark coffee-colored floor carpeting with woven strands of metallic fiber enhances the cozy, relaxing setting.

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 akagane trim. meanwhile, important driving information, such as vehicle speed and navigation directions, appear in ‘midair’ by way of a bezel-less prism display.

the IMk uses a new fully electric platform underneath and nissan’s semi-autonomous propilot tech means you can remote park it from your smartphone. drivers can also link to the car with a smartphone to authenticate their identity, automatically apply personal settings such as seat position, interior lighting and climate controls, before planning their commute.