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The Nissan Xmotion Concept Showcases the Brand’s Rich Heritage While Pointing the Way Forward

By Gerard
.
January 18, 2018

Tough yet sophisticated, a mix of contrasting worlds. This is how Nisan describes its latest concept vehicle, the Xmotion Concept. The new design study was unveiled to the world at the 2018 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

The Xmotion (pronounced cross motion) Concept fuses traditional Japanese design elements with Western-inspired style. It blends the typical Western-derived Sport Utility Vehicle that exudes toughness with the quiet and calm world of Japanese design.

These elements can be seen in the new interpretation of the brand’s signature V-Motion grille. This one uses horizontal bars that are bathed in a bright silver glow. The headlights that flank it are likewise a new take on the trademark boomerang style.

Moving to the side, the U-shaped elements break the monotony of the otherwise slab panels. This helps make the crossover look smaller than it actually is. At the rear, the taillights are inspired by Kuniko or Japanese woodwork and puzzles. The look is finished off by tool-inspired wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.

The six-seater cabin is likewise a place of calm, interspersed with futuristic tech that keeps occupants connected to the outside world even on the go. The floor, for instance, is thought of as a river flowing throughout the interior. All three rows are connected by a center console that spans the length of the vehicle. This “bridge” is inspired by Japanese wood joinery techniques, Kanawa Tsugi. It is the same technique used to build Japanese religious shrines and temples and it doesn’t employ a single nail or glue to piece things together.

The instrument panel, meanwhile, uses Kigumi wood joinery. This type of construction, along with that of the one employed on the console, symbolize strength and trust—n integral part between man and machine. Speaking of the human machine interface, the center console has motion sensors that interpret various hand movements to signal commands for different vehicle functions. One can control the ventilation or infotainment system just by waving one’s hand, for instance.

For security purposes, the Xmotion Concept is operated using fingerprint access. This authentication procedure starts up the vehicle and its various functions, which are tailored to one’s personal settings. A koi is what guides one through the various menus. Very Japanese, indeed.

All told, the Nissan Xmotion Concept represents traditional Japanese values while at the same time, points the way to the future of the brand. It shows where Nissan is headed while still being firmly rooted in its rich heritage. Expect to see it as a future production SUV within the next few years.

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About the Author

Mr. Gerard Jude Castillo
Gerard has been a self-confessed car nut ever since he was a little boy. As a grown-up, he indulges in his passion by collecting toy cars (which he started since childhood) and reading up on the latest cars out there.  As Associate Editor, he will ensure that you get your fill of the latest cars in the market, as well as a load of automotive features.