iV Design Study (Japan, 2010)

Nissan fast-forwards to 2035: EVs and the green energy infrastructures that power them have matured into a fully sustainable system. The Nissan iV is a high-performance super-lightweight sports tourer inspired by nature. It showcases “organic synthetics,” a manufacturing technique in which automotive parts are cultivated like agriculture in a 100% sustainable, carbon-neutral process.

The Nissan iV is engineered toward renewable, lightweight strength and efficiency. Featuring an interwoven organic frame, iV’s chassis material is synthetically grown and formed into a aerodynamic shape. Derived from fast-growing ivy and re-enforced with spider silk composite, the biopolymer frame is flexible and ultra-light, yet robust. The spacious, panoramic cabin seats four adults and is constructed from a photovoltaic material that weighs 99% less than traditional glass. While the canopy collects solar energy, it also provides protective safety and open-air views of the outdoors. Underneath it, a slim bio-battery provides stability and a near limit-less range made possible by regenerative super-capacitor technology that recoups 60% of kinetic energy spent.

Nissan’s patented concentric hub-less in-wheel motors not only propel iV, they do triple-duty by functioning as the vehicle’s steering as well as its suspension system, via magnetic levitation and propulsion. Concentric magnetic rings amplify rotation with each outer ring to boost performance and provide independent wheel control. Inspired by schools of fish and their fluid movement, Nissan’s pro-active Safety Shield™ renders collisions a thing of the past and reduces weight by eliminating the need for heavy savety structures.

In 2010 the Design Challenge was awarded at the Los Angeles Auto Show for the 7th time. Clearly, the challenge 2010 was referring to the need for society to minimize consumption of the earth's resources and produce and consume more sustainably.

The major automotive design studios were invited to develop an efficient, light-weight, four passenger vehicle (not to exceed 1,000 lbs./454 kg kerb weight), that is both comfortable and safe, while delivering satisfactory driving performance without sacrificing the styling consumers demand. For the first time studios from Germany and Japan took part in the competition which gives studios a chance to explore new ideas in automotive design.