Nissan showcases Teatro for Dayz concept ahead of Tokyo debut

As Nissan gears up for the upcoming 44 Tokyo Motor Show, it knows that it can’t let itself be outdone on its own home turf. Bizarrely dubbed Teatro for Dayza name that blends the Italian word for theater (teatro) and a current Nissan minicarthe EV concept was designed not so much for driving, but for occupantsinterested in creating, connecting, and sharing. Nissan’s Product Planning General Manager Hidemi Sasaki said this about the digital natives, which he actually calls “share” natives: “The generation now getting their first driver’s licenses has always been connected through digital devices, email, social media and so forth. If anything, such auto traits just call to mind old-fashioned technology that bears little relevance to their lives”. “For example, through design we typically try to convey a sense of acceleration, power, or supreme quality”.

However, when it is parked, the clean canvas receives quite the smattering of color.

The dashboard, steering, seats and interior door panels are all made up of display units.

And that’s because the interior can be customized to suit the mood, pretenses and interests of the occupants. “What Teatro for Dayz is, how it’s used, and what it could become are all up to the share native’s imagination”, said Tai. There are no conventional knobs or buttons as those would disrupt the flow of the screens, or “would limit display arrangement and expression” as Nissan puts it. Instead, users can control the AC and audio systems with voice commands and motion sensors. Nothing attached to the body suggests speed, performance or handling. “Just wait and see”, said designer Tai. Although it’s yet to be confirmed, it’s possible the Teatro for Dayz also previews styling destined for next-generation versions of Nissan’s Dayz kei auto range.