Probably everyone hearing about the Nissan Pivo is first thinking about the verb “to pivot” and that’s exactly what Nissan wanted, because the first two versions of the concept car featured an innovative technology that allowed the cabin to rotate at 360 degrees while the car was not running. But this idea was a little to revolutionary for these days and putting a car like this into production would probably be a big mistake. And that’s why the Japanese carmaker will bring a third version of the Pivo concept to the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show that will open its gates in December. The Nissan Pivo 3 is a more conventional vehicle, looking a little like a more fancy Renault Twinzy but which is also a lot closer to production than its two previous brothers. However, the “pivoting” idea is still used, but it’s a little more realistic, meaning that the rear wheels are also able to turn, allowing the Pivo 3 to basically spin around its central axis.
But this doesn’t mean the concept car doesn’t feature innovative and futuristic elements. Because the two doors don’t open like normal ones, instead they glide towards the rear of the car, in a style pretty similar to small cargo vans. This is a very practical idea, very useful in narrow parking spaces and which offers the three passengers an easier access when entering or getting out of the car. On the interior, the car features a three-seat layout, the driver’s seat featuring a central position while the other two seats are placed in the back, one on each side of the front seat.
Under the bonnet, the car is powered by an all electric propulsion system, so we could probably call it a mini Leaf. More detailed information about the powertrain hasn’t been released by the Japanese carmaker, but we’ll definitely find out more after the car will debut at the Tokyo show.
One other innovative feature of the Nissan Pivo 3 is the AVP (Automated Valet Parking) system. What this system does is basically make the car find an available parking spot and automatically parking there, especially if a charging station or outlet is available nearby. Then, through a mobile phone app, the driver is announced where the car has found the parking spot.
Packed with modern technology, the Nissan Pivo 3 concept car previews an upcoming urban production model from Nissan, which will have an all electric powertrain and which will most likely feature the innovative all wheel turn.