Nissan smiling vehicle...

[Dexter Dogg]

Forget the horn...

Youtube Link

It seems the car industry doesn’t have any problems left that need to be solved. Or what else can explain Nissan’s shot at designing a car that can “show emotions”? The so-called Smiling Vehicle was jointly developed by the Hara Design Institute Nippon Design Center and the automaker. And yes, the mini vehicle, based on the Nissan Cube, does look friendly.

The concept car is covered with a substance called ROICA, a polyurethane elastomer fiber from major chemical company Asahi Kasei. ROICA has the ability to deform by up to 900% and is normally used for producing shoes, clothes or car seats. Combine the material with Animatronics, and you get a car grill that can actually “smile”.

The idea behind the Smiling Vehicle sounds rather esoteric. Apparently, Nissan sees this technology as an extension of the driver’s character, meaning it can be used to express your current feeling when you sit in the car. This involves being able to share your feeling with other drivers, thereby “communicating” with other people while on the go.

Ok, this second pic is a poor photoshop, but just imagine all the road raged drivers!!

[Paddysmom]

Looks like the Pillsbury Dough Boy in sunglasses.

[MidwestGirl]

Ha Ha...

[Samson]

I think that the Audi equivalent ( the mad bull ) will sell more cars !

That's a little old ladies car.

[Garth]

That's a little old ladies car.

So have you placed your order yet?

[Golfgirlrobin]

I wouldn't be caught dead in a Cube, but you throw that on the front of my 370Z and maybe you've got something.

[Samson]

So have you placed your order yet?

I would buy you one Garth but I can't afford the postage !

[Dexter Dogg]

I would buy you one Garth but I can't afford the postage !

LOL! Good come back. You guys crack me up.

[Bob Pr.]

I think it'd be cheaper to add a tail that can be wagged (or not).

[Di]

Smile or not that is one butt ugly car!!