Nissan has further blurred the lines between fantasy and reality with its Urge concept car. Unveiled at the 2006 Detroit motor show, the Urge incorporates an Xbox gaming console within a 350Z-inspired body that also takes hints from high-performance motorbikes.
But, unlike other cars that boast PlayStations and other computer games for the rear seat passengers, the Urge’s console is set up for the driver. When the car is parked the driver can flip down a screen then use the car’s pedals and steering wheel to play the car racing game Project Gotham Racing 3.
"The Urge concept previews yet another dimension of Nissan’s innovative sports car design leadership," says Nissan president and CEO Carlos Ghosn. "With its motorcycle-inspired body, caged interior, integrated gaming system and quick, agile performance, Urge is a spirited, high-excitement sports car for a new generation of youthful Nissan drivers."
Ghosn hinted that the thinking behind the Urge could inspire a production car within years.
"Urge is easily understandable and highly desirable – merging performance and technology in unique ways," he says. "We believe that there is a growing market demand for such vehicles, and certainly a place for a car like Urge in Nissan showrooms before the end of the decade."
Nissan claims the concept behind the Urge appeals to younger drivers – the core of the ‘PlayStation generation’ that is shunning TV and other traditional media for more interactive pastimes.
"Nissan conducted an internet survey of 2000 echo boomers, a majority of which said technology and gaming are among the most important attributes in their first car," said Bruce Campbell, vice president of design at Nissan Design America in California.
PlayStation’s popular Gran Turismo series has surprised many in the automotive industry with its ability to attract a broad range of potential customers. Car companies regularly supply the game’s programmers with detailed information about new and upcoming models as part of the company’s regular promotion. Some car makers even previewed concept cars or upcoming models in the latest Gran Turismo 4.
The Urge is only a concept for now, but if such an idea were to go into production, it would further blur the lines between real-life driving – where crashes can kill – and the world of video games. - Sydney Morning Herald 11/01/06
