Nissan’s Concept Car Creates The Feeling Of Flight
Nissan showed off its futuristic concept car on Thursday that tilts to the side when going around bends, making drivers feel like they are gliding through the air, AFP reported.
Only two passengers can ride in the zero-emission electric "Land Glider," but at 3.6 feet wide, it can easily squeeze into tight parking spaces and through narrow streets.
Nissan’s Ryusuke Hayashi, who is overseeing the project, said in the past a car could only move in a two dimensional way but now the Land Glider can move in a three dimensional way.
"Although you are driving on the road, you feel as if you are flying," he said.
The four-wheel car has tilting wheels and moving fenders that were inspired by motorbikes and glider aircraft. This enables it to lean by up to 17 degrees.
The wheels are built with special sensors that calculate the best tilt for rounding a corner.
The vehicle also sports airplane-style controls rather than a steering wheel. The Land Glider also aims to give motorists a sense of security with its cocoon-like cabin and a body designed to look like it is protected with armor.
This month’s Tokyo Motor Show, which opens to the public from October 24 to November 4, will display the vehicle. Nissan will also show the electric Leaf, which it plans to launch late next year.
Nissan’s chunky concept sports crossover, the Qazana, looks like a cross between a tank and a beach buggy, and will also be on display at the motor show.
—
On the Net: