| Motorshow Preview | Tokyo Motor Show | Nissan Display |

The Pivo will make a comeback at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show, this time featuring new 90-degree pivoting wheels fitted with In-wheel 3D motors that will take its parking capability to unprecedented levels. The newly named Pivo 2 will retain its cute bubble-look and make full use of its 360-degree revolving cabin that allows great accessibility and gives infinite novelty value. Furthermore, because the concept runs solely on lithium-ion batteries it produces absolutely no emissions, albeit at a leisurely pace.

A new youth-oriented convertible will also be on show in Tokyo. With an apparent fixation on the sensation of speed, the Round Box concept is unconventional in both name and appearance. Using road-surface level windows on the flanks to enhance the feeling of pace, the four-seater hopes to exhilarate what Nissan believe younger generations are after in a vehicle. In terms of looks, the concept is a bold-looking design, but unfortunately, that doesn't mean that it's attractive. Blistered wheelarches and a lack of roofing do little to take the car away from, yes, the round and boxy look. Nice wheels though...

The Nissan Intima is a more restrained concept effort. Huge suicide doors open to present a wonderful blend of leather and colour-coded sky blue trim. Nissan wants to promote an upmarket impression with the Intima and has subsequently hinted at design intentions for the US-branded Maxima executive saloon. What might not make showrooms are the 80-degree swivelling front seats that turn out of the door as if to welcome the driver. The exterior character of the concept is less impressive, however. The Intima uses conventional crease lines and an inoffensive front grille, but does have a panoramic glass sunroof.

Where the Intima is relatively normal and pushes a limited number of boundaries, the NV200 rectifies that situation, quite thoroughly. The concept is aimed at the LCV market buyer no less, but the NV200 differs in its use of interior; or should we say exterior space. Using a fully customisable cargo area, the set up accommodates a removable pod for holding all your gear - in this case Nissan chose drivers who have a soft spot for underwater ocean photography. The pod extends out of the rear of the car with a number of shelves and drawers, whilst the interior then becomes a technology centre for developing photographs. Silly yes, but interesting nonetheless.

With cars taking centre stage, Nissan will use Tokyo to debut its new clean diesel engines and around view monitors alongside. The show will also see the manufacturer's new compact lithium battery pack for hybrid vehicles and Distance Control Assist system. There, a full Tokyo Show report for Nissan without a single mention of the GT-R. Oops...

Kyle Molyneux - 15 Oct 2007