When speculation surfaced a few weeks ago that the Nissan 370Z might be succeeded by a crossover not unlike a Juke, most people paused at the information, but didn't take it too seriously. But then the Japanese introduced the Gripz concept , which, according to a press release, was inspired by the modified 240Z racing coupe, which also happens to be the winner of the Safari Rally. And the threat of a "zetka" crossover is a little closer.
However, if you forego the crazy trade-in of a sports coupe or roadster for a coupe-SUV hybrid, you'll get a surprisingly pleasing car with a corporate V-shaped grille, 22-inch wheels and two pairs of doors. At the same time, the front one folds up, while the rear one opens against the direction of travel. The lights have a boomerang shape, another typical feature of the new Nissans, while the front cameras are integrated into them, recording the driving style. In addition, the car can transmit everything live to a device with an Internet connection.
Some elements, like the frame of the car, are made of carbon , which has managed to reduce the weight and increase the overall stiffness. However, carbon fiber is not an end in itself, as another inspiration in the creation of Grpz was racing bikes . Their design also reflects the already mentioned 22-inch wheels with Bridgestone tires, designed exclusively for this car. The painting is interesting, combining matte black with red or silver on the roof.
The interior with a 2+2 layout does not offer many standard features, as it is also the work of a Japanese design studio (the body was designed in Europe). So we have a carbon steering wheel with a design similar to racing wheels, bold red and orange elements , a combined instrument panel and a centrally located infotainment screen. Not only the steering wheel comes from the cyclist's world, but also the appearance of the pedals or the central tunnel. It stretches along the entire length of the car, as a maximum of four passengers can sit in individual seats. The concept with a length of 4.1 meters and a wheelbase of 2.58 meters is powered by the Pure Drive e-Power hybrid system with a gasoline engine and an electric motor from the Leaf hatchback. However, the combustion unit only supplies energy to the electric unit.
Source: Nissan
