(REPOST: Express)
Nissan looks to continue it pursuit towards electrified transport with the new IMx Concept.
The electric car debuted yesterday at the Tokyo Motor Show 2017 and shares some features of the Nissan Leaf but with improved power and range.
It is claimed that the car will be able to travel around 373 miles on a single charge which would surpass that of the Tesla Model X, which currently leads the way for electric SUVs.
While no official range figures have been revealed due to the fact that the car is a concept and a number of ways away from production, it does show an insight into the company’s electric car ambition.
The manufacturer currently makes the Leaf, which is one of the most popular electric cars in the world.
Its range however doesn’t set the world alight with between 100 and 150 miles on a single charge.
Beyond improving the power and range and looks ( see new Leaf) of its EVs, Nissan also loos to be trying to address some of the shortcomings, flaws and side effects of a battery-powered car.
One of these issues, depending on how you look at it, is the fact that the car does not produce an engine noise.
The battery and motor are relatively silent when you drive along in an electric car.
This is pleasant for the passengers and driver of the car but it is also a cause of concern in regards to safety.
If a pedestrian cannot hear the car coming and step into the road it could cause an accident.
Nissan is addressing that by introducing Canto which is apparently the future sound of its electric vehicles.
Canto is a sound that varies in tone and pitch depending on whether or not you are accelerating, decelerating to reversing.
It will be heard up to speeds of 20kph to 30kph and is designed to help pedestrians.
“An important element of Nissan Intelligent Mobility is how the vehicle integrates with society, and a crucial component of that is sound,” said Daniele Schillaci, executive vice president for global marketing and sales, zero-emission vehicles and the battery business.
“‘Canto’ has been developed to help with pedestrian safety, as well as to provide a distinct Nissan sound – one that is energising and confident, authentic to our brand and representing our unique position in the electrified marketplace.”
The cars will almost sing as you drive them along. It’s a clever solution for something that could be a potential problem but it sounds like the old THX certified VHS loading screen music.