FRESH from launching the game-changing 100 per cent electric Nissan e-NV200 compact van, the world’s leading electric vehicle manufacturer has created a new zero emission concept for VIP transportation – the Nissan e-NV200 VIP Concept.
Designers have upgraded the all-electric e-NV200 Evalia people carrier into a zero emission van perfect as shuttle transport for VIPs. The benefit of being zero emission means that the van can access all current and future clean air zones, as well as drive inside buildings, for the ultimate in discreet convenience.
Behind the spectacular two-tone exterior lies a sophisticated and luxurious interior. The seats are covered in premium quality white leather with blue accents, which contrast with the predominantly black lower portion of the cabin – the trim and carpets are black with a piano black finish on the control surfaces. The top half of the cabin, including the headlining, window surrounds and pillar covers are also white to create a spacious feel.
The two ‘Club Class’ rear seats come with integrated seat belts, armrests and extending leg rests.
By positioning the rear seats well behind the sliding door not only is access to the passenger compartment made as easy as possible, it also extends legroom up to 670 mm and could accommodate the tallest of passengers in incredible limousine-like comfort. Behind the seats there is ample room for luggage, making the e-NV200 VIP Concept ideal for business travelers at airport transfers.
The rear passengers are entertained with the help of a 21.5-inch DSP monitor, which can display movies or other images from a passenger’s digital device, such as a smart phone, tablet, or computer.
The central console between the rear seats incorporates controls for the monitor and room lights as well as housing a drinks fridge. A large LED roof lamp spreads diffused light through the rear compartment, while each seat has an individual reading lamp.
The e-NV200 VIP Concept is equipped with Nissan’s Smart Rear-View mirror, as recently introduced at 2014 Geneva Motor Show. This innovation enables clear rearward visibility under all conditions. The Smart Rear-View mirror is housed within the structure of the conventional rear view mirror, with a built-in LCD monitor that can be activated in place of the conventional mirror. A high-resolution camera, mounted on the rear of the vehicle, provides the driver with a clear unobstructed view of the rear, giving the ability to check blind spots and other traffic conditions.
The e-NV200 VIP Concept is powered by the same 80kW AC synchronous electric motor and advanced 48-module lithium-ion battery as developed for Nissan LEAF and e-NV200.
The drivetrain has proven to be superbly reliable, powering in excess of 135,000 Nissan LEAF vehicles globally, since launch. The driving range will be close to the homologated range of the standard production vehicle and can be easily and rapidly extended by using any of the over 1,200 CHAdeMO-compatible quick chargers across Europe, just like the standard e-NV200.
“The e-NV200 Evalia is already an unprecedentedly quiet and comfortable vehicle, and this concept takes zero emission downtown transportation further, to a new level of serenity. The e-NV200 concept for VIPs is guaranteed to generate interest from luxury VIP operators,” said Dany Boulenger, Nissan’s Global Corporate Sales, Division General Manager.
“Based on demand some of its features could easily be offered as affordable aftermarket conversions.”