Small Concepts Dominate Nissan's Frankfurt Display

Nissan is turning up the green factor for its big Frankfurt debut. Its latest

concept car, the Mixim, is completely electrical, showcasing what Nissan projects to be a “future vehicle”. However, it's on a mission to make showgoers believe that small-sized cars need not be boring, but rather that they have the potential to be sporty.

Modeled after a race car driver's helmet, the Mixim conveys an unusual look with a wide, almost jaw-like bumper and inset doors. The link to Nissan vehicles is strengthened by the typical “square” Nissan nose, while wraparound LED headlamps take the familiar shape of other cars in the Japanese company's lineup, but they've been adjusted for a sportier look. Meanwhile, at the rear of the car, the Mixim's shoulders form into taillights that cap off the rear fenders of the vehicle, bordered by a concave shaped rear windscreen. It's all very interesting considering the roofline is sloped backwards as you progress down the car from front to rear.

The Mixim's seating arrangement mimics the almighty McLaren F1 with a 1+2 layout (central driver's seat plus two offset seats) giving the

driver better visibility and the feel of an open fender race car. In the case where an extra seat is needed, the Mixim offers an occasional-use fourth seat behind this arrangement, giving it the occupancy rating of a traditional small subcompact car.

A pure electric vehicle, this Nissan is powered by two of the automaker's brand new “Super Motor” electric motors, one located at each end of the car. This gives the little Mixim all-wheel drive capabilities. What's interesting is that the power that's supplying the wheels comes from a brand new lithium-ion battery that was developed in collaboration with electrics giant NEC. The two have been working together recently to perfect this elusive technology, which will make sustainable electric power a true possibility for real-life commuters.

By our normal North American standards, the Mixim is absolutely tiny. At exactly 145.7 inches in length, it undercuts the Toyota Yaris Liftback by 4.90 inches, though it's significantly wider and lower, yielding a much more aggressive shape and profile. In keeping the car's physical dimensions so small and advancing the type of powertrain it uses, Nissan ensured a curb weight of well under 2,200 pounds.