Nissan’s ingenious NV200 Van Concept

The entire design takes cues from underwater themes - above the front seats is a glass panel incorporating a wave pattern that bathes the interior in a diffused light and on either side of the panel are two forward-facing glazed holders into which high-powered professional underwater torches can be slotted to provide a floodlit area ahead of NV200.

The designers in the UK have also thrown in a small visual joke. Opening the sliding door reveals the legend ‘Mind The Gap’ on the step up into the work area… a reference familiar to anyone using London’s Tube network.

Although the NV200 has been designed to suit the specific needs of one user, the principle behind the concept has wide ranging potential. The team has identified mobile libraries, greengrocery stores, florists and even field ambulances among possible users of the pod.

“Although NV200 might, at first glance, appear to be a flight of fancy, the more you study its potential the more you realise it is an entirely practical and feasible project,” says Nakamura.

And the verdict from Dr Mustard, the man around whom the concept was created?

“Perfect… just perfect. It even answers needs I hadn’t realized that I had. I only have one question: when will NV200 be put into production?” he says.