EV Created by Nissan GT-R Designer Reaches Prototype

Since stepping down as head of Nissan Design in 2017, designer Shiro Nakamura, responsible for several Nissan and Infiniti models, including the R35-generation Nissan GT-R, runs his own design firm, SN Design Platform.

At the 2024 Paris Motor Show starting today, the Tokyo-based design firm will unveil the THK LSR-05, a four-door electric car built to showcase new technology from THK, a Japanese company specializing in components that rely on linear motion via rolling contact.

The LSR-05 will premiere as a concept at the 2023 Tokyo Motor Show, and a more advanced prototype version with several new technologies developed by THK will be shown in Paris. These include a sliding seat that takes up less installation space, an active suspension system with magnetic dampers, a contactless charging system, and a brake-by-wire system.

The LSR-05 is also equipped with in-wheel electric motors developed by THK. One on each rear wheel, each rated at 125 hp, works in conjunction with a conventional electric motor (295 hp) that drives the front axle.

The SN Design Platform describes it as a crossover with coupe-like proportions. With an overall length of approximately 196 inches, it is in the midsize segment. However, the lack of a transmission tunnel helps, and thanks to clever packaging and new seats, the interior space is close to that of a full-size car. Legroom is very generous, and the rear seats even have extendable legrests.

Neither SN Design Platform nor THK have mentioned production of the LSR-05, but THR has stated that it is working on a more advanced design called the LSR-07.

The LSR-05 is not the first EV announced by SN Design Platform. Last year the company also unveiled the EV Sport 01, a similar concept designed to showcase an electric motor developed by Japanese technology firm AIM.