SMALL COMMERCIAL VAN
SMALL COMMERCIAL VAN
SMALL COMMERCIAL VAN
NISSAN MICRO-VAN
These are ideation sketches done for an
advanced design program on a small
commercial van project at Nissan Design
America. They were done in 1997-8 as new
technology was beginning to have a big effect
on many business models. The growth of the
internet, robotics, data sharing, etc. were
combining with new physical layout ideas to
redefine this segment. One important factor
for this vehicle was the emergence of electric
power as a viable option. Many products have
to be manufactured with both electric and
conventional power plants in mind, but gas
tanks are not so easily substituted with battery
packs. Another issue is the consideration of
passenger van versions along with delivery.
The project had just got rolling when we were
diverted to work on other things. By 2006, the
project was started again although on a larger
physical package. By then I was in retirement.
I believe that Brian Thompson was the
designer that had the winning design. His work
can be seen at his website:
http://www.bryanthompsondesign.com/
Packaging/Space Allocation:
Investigating the size and
arrangement of interior volumes
Access, Container Modules:
Looking at ACCESS to &
USAGE of the interior
IC/EV/RV Versions on same vehicle:
This is looking at Internal Combustion,
Electrical and Recreational Variants of
a package layout.
The Cab-Chassis concept is one
where small companies utilize a Nissan
chassis for their vehicles. Wreckers,
ambulances, etc. are existing examples
of this kind of collaboration.
The point is to allow flexibility for these
small companies to become
laboratories of innovation.
Detail Development:
Interior & Exterior Details.

Including options for integral  tie-downs.
Delivery Cycle Concepts:
Looking at the "delivery" cycle in general.
Some companies were beginning to offer
internet based grocery purchase and delivery.
Detail Development:
Interior & Exterior Details
LAST EXTERIOR SKETCH      I was just getting rolling when the project was cancelled.
These sketches are not the usual type associated with car designers' work. On the
contrary, they probably are more what would be expected from PRODUCT DESIGNERS,
which is not surprising considering the fact that I graduated in Product Design from the
Illinois Institute of Design, headed by the legendary Jay Doblin. He was the pivotal mentor
in the development of my design philosophy. This is what probably distinguishes me from
most transportation designers - from schools like CCS and Art Center.
Remember this was before the
so-called smart phone was out,
certainly before the "app" revolution.
I don't know about the commercial
application of this max-width idea but I
sure wish I could have a small vehicle
with this kind of function.
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