Nissan Pivo 2

By Gavin Green

Motor Shows

25 October 2007 02:40

Haven’t we seen this weird Pivo before?

We have. Two years ago, Nissan showed the first Pivo, an urban car that features some clever tech specially designed for the challenges of the city jungle. Pivo 2 takes the concept on a stage, improving battery technology and the electric engines, and adding a weird robot interface. Now you have a robot as travelling companion. Part of his job is to cheer you up. Nissan says a happy driver is a safer driver.

Pivo 2 has four totally independent wheels that swivel like a supermarket trolley, all powered by individual electric engines. The ‘Metamo’ system allows for the wheelbase and track to be altered, and for the wheels to swivel. The passenger bubble cell also turns through 360 degrees. So you don’t need to reverse park into tight spots: spin the cabin 90 degrees and drive the car in sideways, crab-like. Irrespective of the car’s direction, the driver always faces forwards. It’s clever and greatly simplifies parking.

By Gavin Green