Mississauga, Ontario - Nissan has announced more details about its FORUM minivan to be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. The company calls it the next revolution in family transportation, incorporating such ideas as trackless sliding side doors, a multi-position swivelling second-row seat and next-generation entertainment and family communications technology.
The FORUM is conceived as a "gathering place" that brings adults and children together in two linked but independent "zones", targeting families with older children who can entertain themselves. The parents' zone in front includes advanced information technology controls and seats designed to enhance driving pleasure. The rear zone is dedicated for children and keeps them comfortable and entertained.
"From a conceptual standpoint, FORUM is closer to a family limousine than the minivans Gen Xers have grown up with," said Rachel Nguyen, director, Advanced Planning and Strategy for Nissan North America Inc. "But unlike a real limo, or sometimes traditional minivans, the FORUM driver is just as important as the passengers. It offers a sophisticated space for adults and an engaging space for children, allowing both groups to enjoy themselves in their own individualistic ways, while being connected in one vehicle. Like every Nissan, this dramatic FORUM Concept combines passionate driving, emotive design and an abundance of advanced, user-friendly technology."
FORUM's design includes front doors that open 90 degrees, no B-pillars, trackless side doors, a Skyview sunroof with sunshades, front and rear LED lights, soft-edged outside mirrors, wide six-spoke alloy wheels with low-profile tires, a wide rear hatch and dual exhaust outlets. Inside, the vehicle features leather-appointed pedestal-style front seats, a "floating" instrument panel, built-in console microwave that fits a standard bag of microwave popcorn, wool carpeting and "turntable seating".
