Yesterday I was wondering around the Geneva Motor Show, marvelling at all the plug-in hybrids and the ground-up electric concept cars from the major manufacturers. What struck me was how unispiring the plug-in hybrids were and how the freedom of expression that a pure electric platform gives designers, explicit in the new exterior shapes and interior layouts that were on show. It's great to see the industry embracing the electric future. Two of the new pure electric concept vehicles caught my attention.
First up, the VW Bulli concept.
If you are not from Germany, you may not recognise the name. but you will remember the vehicle. We Brits call it the VW Camper Van, the Americans the Microbus, that expression of the Summer of Love, the spirit of freedom without the macho muscle, reincarnated. The red 'V' on the bonnet remains, as does the two tone colour scheme, the clean lines, bench seats and 6 seat configuration, all updated yet retaining the original spirit. Today's version is squarer, with a docked i-pad at the front console and a 300 km range. The fact that it may never make it into production doesn't really matter. Surfs up. I loved it, I want one for my summer holidays.
Next up was the Townpod concept from Nissan.
I presume the Townpod is the Cube concept updated. First shown in Paris, the Townpod is an MPV, with a Leaf-style front end, large swing doors at the rear, no B-pillar, suicide doors and a low walk through floor front and rear. Room for everyone, another fresh piece of thinking that will make you want to download a few ZZ Top albums and drive your mates around town.
