Nissan has long been a pioneer in the electric vehicle market, and its latest creation — the Nissan Concept 20-23 — showcases the brand’s vision for the next generation of sporty, urban electric cars. Unveiled to celebrate 20 years of Nissan Design Europe (NDE) in London, this futuristic concept car blends cutting-edge aerodynamics, youthful design, and zero-emission inspiration into one striking package.
A Celebration of Heritage and Innovation
The Nissan Concept 20-23 isn’t just a design study; it’s a tribute to Nissan’s past and future. The name itself carries meaning — combining the “20” for NDE’s anniversary and “23” from the Japanese pronunciation of “ni-san.” The design team, including some of the studio’s youngest and most creative minds, was given total freedom to craft a car they’d love to drive through London’s busy streets.
Drawing cues from Formula E and online simulator racing, the Concept 20-23 nods to Nissan’s long-standing heritage of distinctive hatchbacks while pushing boundaries in electric mobility.
Design: Aerodynamic and Aggressive
The Nissan Concept 20-23 features a three-door hatchback body, sculpted with bold aerodynamic elements at both the front and rear. Deep side skirts help manage airflow, cooling the brakes while reducing drag around the wheels. Prominent wheel arches and motorsport-inspired rims add to its racing DNA.
Along the sides, extended skirts and angular vents enhance aerodynamics, while the rear end is dominated by a single-piece roof spoiler and a squared-off diffuser, both reinforcing the car’s dynamic personality.
Despite its aggressive stance, the Concept 20-23 maintains a touch of friendliness. Slim LED headlights and taillights, shaped like semi-circles, add character, while scissor doors and a matte grey paint finish elevate its futuristic appeal. The signature number 23 and a roof scoop for added ventilation complete the look.
Minimalist, Racing-Inspired Interior
Although primarily an exterior model, the Nissan Concept 20-23 interior offers a glimpse into Nissan’s minimalist design philosophy. The cabin features two deep racing-style bucket seats, an extended steering column, and a multifunction steering yoke — all reminiscent of a professional race car.
Instead of a traditional dashboard, two compact digital displays deliver essential driving information, underscoring the car’s clean and driver-focused aesthetic.
The Future of Nissan EV Design
According to Alfonso Albaisa, Nissan’s Senior Vice President for Global Design, the Concept 20-23 embodies the spirit of modern urban living, online gaming, and sustainable mobility. It’s a vision that merges performance and practicality — the perfect symbol of what city-focused electric vehicles could become.
While Nissan hasn’t revealed technical specifications or powertrain details, it’s widely believed that the Concept 20-23 will influence upcoming Nissan EV models, potentially including the long-awaited Micra EV.
The Nissan Concept 20-23 is more than just a show car — it’s a statement of intent. It captures Nissan’s evolving design language, celebrates two decades of European creativity, and previews the brand’s electric future. With its sharp styling, aerodynamic innovation, and youthful energy, the Concept 20-23 stands as one of the most exciting glimpses yet into Nissan’s electric mobility revolution.
