Tag Archives: nissan

Nissan’s Frontier TARMAC Concept: A 440 Horsepower Muscle Truck Built for the Track

Posted on by

The Nissan Frontier TARMAC concept isn’t here to haul lumber or rocks. This one’s about making a statement. Designed by Nissan Motorsports (NISMO), Forsberg Racing, and Nissan Design America, this bold concept takes the classic work truck idea and supercharges it—literally and figuratively. Think of it as a track-ready muscle truck, complete with a 3.8-liter V6 that churns out a hefty 440 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. And if you’re already picturing burnouts, you’ll be glad to know that a custom handbrake was added just for that purpose.

Designer: Chris Forsberg & Nissan

This is no standard Frontier, not by a mile. The Frontier TARMAC’s heart is a supercharged engine with carbon fiber accents that reflect its performance-driven personality. The NISMO air intake and performance exhaust deliver power on demand, while custom NISMO brakes ensure it can actually stop when it needs to. This setup isn’t just about big numbers; it’s about delivering a refined level of control that’s engineered for precision on the track.

The Frontier TARMAC’s Afterburn Orange paint—a new hue for the 2025 Frontier lineup—brings a bold aesthetic that turns heads. Carbon fiber fender flares add to the truck’s aggressive stance, giving it a sleek but dominant appearance. Those wide carbon fiber accents aren’t just for show either; they’re there to add strength and reduce weight. And then there are the wheels—custom 20-inch NISMO wheels wrapped in Yokohama Advan tires—adding yet another layer of performance and visual appeal. From top to bottom, the Frontier TARMAC looks ready to handle the asphalt with all the confidence of a sports car.

If you’re wondering how they pulled off that low-riding look, the answer is in the suspension. This truck sits improbably low, thanks to a prototype NISMO coil-over setup in the front, with a rear flip kit and C-notch to make sure it stays close to the ground without compromising structural integrity. This custom suspension, paired with those beefy tires, gives the truck a “slammed” stance, as described by Chris Forsberg himself. Just one look tells you this vehicle isn’t meant for off-road adventuring—think racetrack, not mountain trails.

Inside, the TARMAC concept doesn’t skimp on comfort or style. You’ll find Recaro seats that offer the perfect balance of support and sportiness, making every drive feel like a track day. The carbon fiber steering wheel and handbrake, both track-inspired, give drivers full control, emphasizing that this truck is built for those who value a more hands-on driving experience. Nissan clearly wasn’t aiming for “rugged” here—this is all about precision and speed.

Even though the Nissan Frontier TARMAC is just a concept, it’s a fascinating nod to the muscle truck era, when power and performance were the only metrics that mattered. Nissan is showing off the TARMAC at SEMA this year, where it’s sharing the spotlight with other concepts like the “Project Trailgater” for tailgating fans, and the Kicks Beach Patrol for coastal explorers. Each concept represents a different aspect of Nissan’s vision for the future, but the Frontier TARMAC is easily one of the standouts.

For anyone who’s ever wanted a pickup with muscle car roots, the Frontier TARMAC might be exactly the kind of “truck fantasy” they didn’t know they needed. It’s the answer to a question nobody asked: What if a work truck had a double life as a track star? In the end, the Nissan Frontier TARMAC might be one for the show floor, but it’s proof that Nissan isn’t afraid to play around with tradition and take its designs into bold new territory.

The post Nissan’s Frontier TARMAC Concept: A 440 Horsepower Muscle Truck Built for the Track first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nissan Interstar converted into comfortable camper van with adaptable living module from PlugVan

Posted on by

Camper vans have come of age. There are liveable vans for all types of adventure and camping enthusiasts, but do not have much for the tradesmen. Nissan is breaking the norm with the introduction of the Interstar converted into a camper van using a slide-in conversion module from its new partner, PlugVan based out of Germany, which allows the Nissan van to be used as a camper over the weekend and turned effortlessly into a commercial cargo van over the weekdays.

Interstar is one of the larger vans from Japanese automobile manufacturer that is easily customizable to user requirements thanks to its availability in different range of wheelbases, body sizes, and payload capacities. Now at the Caravan Salon 2024 in Düsseldorf, Germany, Nissan is not going to just reveal the Interstar, but will show its camper van abilities using the new PlugVan camping module.

Designer: Nissan

From how it appears, the PlugVan camper-in-a-box for the Nissan Interstar can be installed and removed from the vehicle in minutes. With the camper module onboard, it is ready for a tiresome adventure, and when you take it down it is your everyday back-to-work van. The cleaver conversion module therefore transforms the Interstar in a few steps thanks to its detachable and height-adjustable form factor.

Perhaps the slightly foldable roof of the PlugVan unit allows it to fit through the Interstar doorway and expand inside into a full-blown home facility with pop-up roof, full kitchen, and a sleeping zone for a couple. The kitchen is erected behind the driver and is meant to slide, lift and expand depending on the user’s requirements. It comes with a portable single-burner stove, slide-out fridge box, an integrated sink and a faucet connected to 43l gray and freshwater tanks (also connected to the outdoor shower) onboard, respectively.

The kitchen has slide-out drawers and a retractable dining table accessible from the sofa on the opposite side of the kitchen unit that lifts upward to clear room below for the convertible sofa bed at night. The PlugVan unit does not fill up the entire space of the full-size Interstar, so a bathroom (that packs down into a suitcase) with fabric walls, portable dry toilet, and a water heater is provided alongside. The interesting camper van with an interesting exterior colorway is accessible through the side door, while the large rear window provides amazing views of the surroundings while you drive to your halt by the evening.

The post Nissan Interstar converted into comfortable camper van with adaptable living module from PlugVan first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nissan’s interactive robots team up to make in-car parenting a breeze and favorite activity for babies onboard

Posted on by

Experts suggest, going out with your fussy infant for a drive can lull them to sleep and smoothen their peace. But sitting in the car, facing the other way around in their chair, a child may not always be the happiest and you may not have all the control you desire. To your rescue, Japanese auto giant Nissan has designed cute robots that will make in-car parenting a breeze and a favorite activity for your tiny winy.

This is being made possible by Nissan through Iruyo: The Intelligent Puppet. The automaker has collaborated with compatriot Akachan Honpo, a baby goods retailer, to make the Iruyo, furry babysitter. It comes built-in with a range of sensors and communication devices to ensure parents get an affordable toy robot they can safely have around their baby.

Designer: Nissan x Akachan Honpo

To cut the chase, Iruyo: The Intelligent Puppet is a moniker used for a set of two similar-looking state-of-the-art robotic companions that vary visually in their size and come in thoughtfully fashioned red and subtler pink and white colors. The little one, aptly called the Baby Iruyo, is designed to sit near the driver – essentially in the cup holder – while the elder Iruyo rests in the backseat, facing the child sitting in their chair.

Baby Iruyo is programmed to understand voice commands; guess, only in Japanese for now. So, when the child gets cranky in the backseat, the parent can speak some consoling commands such as “I’m here” or “play peek-a-boo” and the little Iruyo relays that to the Iruyo, facing the child, which then makes suitable gestures to keep the kid entertained.

Well, Iruyo is either avatar is only a concept for now, but already the highly researched companion robot has been found to be a preoccupying activity in 90 percent of babies. Half of this percentage of babies have even experienced mood enhancements with the robot by their side. This data is instigating the makers to continue with trials and general experience sessions. One such event is slated at the Akachan Honpo store in LaLaport Yokohama on February 10 and 11.

The post Nissan’s interactive robots team up to make in-car parenting a breeze and favorite activity for babies onboard first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nissan Trail Mountain Rescue off-roader is built for tough rescue operations in the Italian alps

Posted on by

Nissan has just revealed a specialized version of its X-Trail model, tailored for mountain rescue operations, that would mean the difference between life and death in inclement weather conditions. The robust Nissan X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle is equipped with the innovative e-4ORCE all-wheel drive powertrain, marking a significant step forward in the brand’s commitment to versatile and capable off-road vehicles.

The twin motor e-4ORCE system powering the heart of this X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle enhances the rig’s performance on challenging terrains, with exceptional grip management. The traction in just 1/10,000th of a second (1000 times faster than traditional systems), ensures optimal power delivery to each wheel, promoting stability and control, essential attributes for speedy mountain rescue missions. The system’s seamless integration into the X-Trail platform demonstrates the Japanese automotive giant’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of treading inhospitable terrain.

Designer: Nissan

The mountain-ready X-Trail will understandably catch the attention of automotive enthusiasts during its debut at the Italian ski resort of Cervinia. The vehicle’s robust design and purpose-built features make it an ideal choice for navigating the demanding landscapes associated with mountain rescue scenarios. The X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle is not just a visual spectacle; it boasts practical elements designed to aid rescue teams. The addition of tracks, replacing traditional wheels, enables the X-Trail to conquer snow-covered terrain with ease. This modification ensures the vehicle remains surefooted in challenging conditions. Loaded with additional gear including a stretcher, removing the rear seat, also ensures medical personnel can be on site for emergency care. The vehicle also comes with a siren, flashing light bar, powerful roof and hood lights, wider fenders, an enhanced front bumper with a winch and reinforced towing hooks. The footboards and a raised ride height make sure there is easy access in and out of the vehicle.

Nissan’s strategic collaboration with mountain rescue services underscores its commitment to leveraging its automotive expertise for the greater good. By tailoring the X-Trail to meet the specific needs of rescue teams, Nissan showcases its ability to adapt and innovate within the automotive landscape. The X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle’s unveiling will generate excitement among outdoor enthusiasts and those in search of reliable off-road solutions.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Nissan’s foray into specialized off-road applications reflects a broader trend of manufacturers catering to niche markets. The X-Trail Mountain Rescue vehicle not only serves as a testament to the brand’s engineering prowess but also highlights the brand’s commitment to addressing the unique needs of diverse user groups.

 

The post Nissan Trail Mountain Rescue off-roader is built for tough rescue operations in the Italian alps first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nissan Skyline Moist Tissue Box Looks Fast & Furious

Posted on by


Styled after the late-90’s R-34 Nissan Skyline GT-R, this moist tissue holder is hands down the fastest-looking tissue box I’ve ever seen. Hopefully, it’s not so fast I can’t grab a tissue, though, or I will have to wipe my hands on my shirt.

An officially Nissan licensed product, the mini Skyline is available with Sonic Silver, Bayside Blue, and Black Pearl exterior paint and costs ¥6,600 (~$47) from Camshop.jp before shipping from Japan. So, it’s not exactly the cheapest tissue box. But can you really put a price on a tissue box that looks ready to speed off your coffee table and crash onto the floor?

The car measures a respectable 29cm x 11cm x 8cm (11.5″ x 4.5″ x 3″) and fits most standard-size boxes of moist tissues. The only thing that would make it better is if it produced engine revving or tire squealing noises whenever you pulled a tissue from it. They really should have made that a factory option.

[via TechEBlog]

Nissan Hyper Adventure concept lets you have an eco-friendly outdoor trip

Posted on by

If you’re the type to go on adventurous trips but would also like to take care of the carbon footprint that you leave behind, you are lucky to live in an era where brands are also intentional about the products that they create. Having environment friendly products are now the norm if you want to score points with Mother Earth and with the eco-conscious market. The latest vehicle concept that Nissan unveiled seems to fit into this category.

Designer: Nissan

The Nissan Hyper Adventure is the second concept in the Electronic Vehicle category that they have announced and is specifically designed for those who want to go on eco-friendly outdoor adventures. The renders show a futuristic design for a vehicle that can survive going through a snowy mountain or the rainy trail in a rainforest. It is designed with the e-4ORCE all-wheel-control system so you can get to your destination safely. It also looks pretty spacious inside so you can drive comfortably and even use the vehicle as your shelter if you feel like going “camping” or sleeping outdoors.

The vehicle has a glass that integrates the roof and side windows as well as the flush surface of the back. It also has crampons or snow traction gears on the wheels and bumpers so it can drive through snowy areas. It also has a wide field of view since the instrument panel is connected to the bottom of the windshield. There is enough cargo space for things like tents, skis, and can even fit a kayak. The rear bench seat can be rotated 180 degrees so you can sit facing outside and it even has automatic extendable and retractable steps.

The Nissan Hyper Adventure comes with a large-capacity battery that can also become an energy source. It should be able to power the gadgets and equipment that you’ll use on your outdoor adventure. It also uses the V2X (vehicle-to-everything) capability so it can even power a house. It’s an interesting concept but we’ll have to wait if it becomes an actual vehicle.

The post Nissan Hyper Adventure concept lets you have an eco-friendly outdoor trip first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nissan 20-23 concept is an electric hot hatch for city speed demons

Posted on by

Making an electric car boxy without drifting away from the idea of lending it a futuristic look takes a special skill set. That’s what Nissan has achieved with its new Concept 20-23, designed to be a fun city electric car that you’d want to “drive every day in London,” as Alfonso Albaisa, Nissan’s senior vice president for global design, put it.

He also emphasized the fact that the concept is inspired by the online racing world. To sum it up, the electric hatchback is the perfect intersection of modern city living, online gaming and zero-emission mobility. The car is a true reflection of the “Nissan Ambition 2030 target of introducing 27 electrified vehicles by the year 2030. THe Japanese automotive giant also plans to have solid-state batteries in all its EVs by 2028, thereby achieving a 65 percent reduction in the cost of energy storage.

Designer: Nissan

The electric hot hatch, crafted to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Nissan Design Europe, is fitted with an all-electric powertrain with the option to drive it in both urban and sporty modes. Formula-1 influence of the Concept 20-23 is evident as soon as you step inside via the scissor doors. White bucket seats and the square steering wheel mounted on a carbon fiber column indicate Nissan’s intent to pitch the EV to speed addicts. The minimalist interior enhances the concept’s distraction-free aesthetic, focused on just pushing the foot to the metal.

The aggressive aero styling radiates the sporty character of the concept amplified by the semi-circular dissected headlights and the taillights. Sporty elements like the huge rear lip spoiler, wide arches and the roof scoop feeding air add cool factor to the cute little sexy thing. If ever Mini Cooper would ever get some serious competition from an EV or any hatchback, this would be it.

For now, Nissan has no plans of pushing the Concept 20-23 into the production lines. However, we want to see this baby roll on the streets, given its killer sharp looks fused perfectly with the sumptuous contours where required. Hone its torque, gear ratios and power delivery capabilities, and motorheads have got a winning hatchback in proposition.

The post Nissan 20-23 concept is an electric hot hatch for city speed demons first appeared on Yanko Design.

With pop-up roof and kitchen in the boot, Nissan Townstar EV is your ticket to unforgettable escapades

Posted on by

The automotive world has been buzzing with excitement at the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon set to continue until Sunday, September 3. Amidst the spectacular displays, Nissan has unveiled its latest masterpiece: the Townstar EV station wagon with a remarkable camping conversion. This is the first time the fully electric vehicle has undergone a camping-friendly makeover.

Enter the future of family travel with the Nissan Townstar EV – fusion of practicality and eco-consciousness – now a captivating camping-ready drive, bound to redefine your outdoor experiences. Imagine embarking on a journey with a vehicle that’s not only stylish but also equipped for all your camping desires. The Townstar EV boasts an unmistakable charm, a departure from the traditional van aesthetic, to be one irresistible mini-camper.

Designer: Nissan

For this, the Townstar EV is topped with a pop-up roof from Maggiolina Airlander. The soft roof elegantly pops up high, transforming the space within into a cozy haven. With a simple crank, the tent effortlessly rises, revealing a sleeping area with a 130 x 210cm double bed inside. It’s surrounded by mesh windows that allow in gentle breeze, while zippered weatherproofing adds to comfort in all weather conditions. A thoughtfully designed interior with ceiling lamp adds a touch of convenience to your evenings under the stars.

The transformation doesn’t stop at this, it continues to the rear of the vehicle where Irmscher i-BOX kitchen module is installed. It can be easily removed if your camping adventure doesn’t require one.  Otherwise, for a multi-day camping experience, the kitchen comes with a dual-burner gas stove, mini fridge, sink, and a water canister. Beyond the alluring aesthetics and thoughtful conveniences, the camping version of the Nissan Townstar EV is equipped with 18-inch rims in a stylish cross design, coupled with all-weather tires.

It has a versatile 45 kWh battery that can charge with alternating current or direct current via the vehicle’s CCS connection. This means you can charge from 15 to 80 percent in an astonishingly brief 37 minutes, ensuring your adventures aren’t stalled by lengthy charging sessions. To top it off, the variant with a 22 kW charging system boasts an efficient heat pump that warms the vehicle interior, creating a cozy space when the weather outside turns gray. With this meticulous attention to comfort and sustainability, you can make the Nissan Townstar EV your ticket to unforgettable memories and thrilling escapades.

The post With pop-up roof and kitchen in the boot, Nissan Townstar EV is your ticket to unforgettable escapades first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nissan unveils Max-Out sports convertible concept oozing out Tron Legacy elements

Posted on by

Like other leading automotive manufacturers’ sustainability is at the top of Nissan’s agenda too. Reason enough for them to launch a series of vehicles at the Nissan Futures event in Yokohama, Japan from February 4th to March 1st.

Our attention however is focused on one right now, the Max-Out all-electric convertible roadster. This Tron-like sports car of the future was initially just a digital blueprint more than a year ago when initially revealed. Now, finally, the two-seater Nissan has come to life for good.

Designer: Nissan

The core idea behind its design is to feel one with the vehicle, bringing a sense of openness by offering a very “enhanced and dynamic” driving experience every time the driver hits the pedal. As far as looks go, the futuristic appeal in the form of a digital landscape is undeniable, but the retro elements balance out the overall personality. The wheels, headlights and taillight have an 80s sci-fi character, while the rectangular front section, side profile, and the interiors have a definitive future-forward design.

There’s a lot of neon blue and neon green used in the exterior and the interior to amplify that hypnotic digital landscape appeal further. The dashboard gets a wide digital screen for seamless multitasking, and the sporty yoke-like steering wheel makes me want to play Overture by Daft Punk and feel the muted electric motor of the Max-Out revving at full blast on a freeway.

That said Nissan hasn’t released any information about the powertrain, electric battery or the probable range of the convertible. Nor is there any word on when this ride will hit the production lines, if it ever does. The only thing marked down y Nissan is that they will create 23 electrified models by 2030 for motorheads – 15 of them will be fully electric. Also, they have a serious vision of a 50 percent electrification mix along with the Infinity brands in the ending phase of the decade.

So, we are looking at a probable situation where the elements of Max-Out will be in some way or another other implemented in a production version. Still, it is good to imagine we’ll have roofless electric cars with steering wheels and normal aesthetics – not something that’s straight out of a creative designer’s pipedreams!

The post Nissan unveils Max-Out sports convertible concept oozing out Tron Legacy elements first appeared on Yanko Design.