Nissan Max-Out electric convertible concept revealed; Ambition 2030 vision

UPDATE: Nissan Max-Out EV convertible concept displayed in real life

Nissan has demonstrated a physical model of its Max-Out electric convertible concept, more than a year after its debut.

The open-top EV was unveiled in November 2021 as a computer rendering, alongside the electric Chill-Out crossover, Hang-Out SUV and Surf-Out ute, to demonstrate the Japanese automaker’s vision for design, “dynamic driving experience”, and EVs using solid-state batteries.

The Max-Out is currently being displayed to the public at the Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery in Yokohama, Japan, until March 4, 2023.

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November 29, 2021: Nissan reveals Ambition 2030 vision alongside four concept vehicles

Nissan's electric future has been previewed as the Japanese manufacturer reveals its 'Ambition 2030' vision.

Aiming for electric vehicles to make up 50 per cent of its overall production volume by 2030, Nissan will launch 23 electrified models – 15 of which will be fully-electric – before its self-imposed deadline, although this includes offerings from its luxury sub-brand, Infiniti.

To do this, a large investment will be made, as Nissan commits to putting roughly ¥2 trillion (AU$24.6 billion) into its electric vehicle development over the next five years, which will be capped off by the manufacturer bringing all-solid-state batteries (ASSB) to the new car market by 2028.

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Nissan Chill-Out

Potentially spearheading the sales push will be a production version of its new Chill-Out – a concept vehicle which Nissan says is a near-future preview of the next line of EVs.

Based on the CMF-EV platform, which is shared between Nissan and Renault, the high-riding crossover is something of a next-generation step from the current Ariya in Europe, with dual electric motors providing power to all four wheels.

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Nissan Max-Out

While not in its immediate plans, the remaining three concept cars will be crucial for Nissan's EV future by 2030 – with all featuring dual motors, AASB and integrated AI, all within a low-height skateboard platform.

The most unconventional concept is the Max-Out – a two-seater convertible with a radical, 1970s-concept car-esque design with its front and rear bumpers.

Tipped to feature a low centre of gravity, the Max-Out's seats can morph and move to give the driver any number of driving positions – ideal for export to both right- and left-hand drive markets.

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Nissan Surf-Out

Setting its sights on the off-road market, the Surf-Out could lend its styling to an all-electric Navara, boasting a range of power outputs to suit any number of terrains.

Thanks to the low-lying skateboard platform, cargo space is maximised, while the batteries can also be repurposed to power equipment – similar to systems in current EVs such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

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Nissan Hang-Out

Finally the most relatable concept, the Hang-Out. Somewhere between a Qashqai and X-Trail in size, its modus operandi is to suppress vibrations and jolts, perfect for car-sick passengers.

Nissan believes the interior provides a theatre-like setting, creating a place of peace and quiet should the occupants want to relax or work at any time.

It's hoped the Chill-Out, as well as potential production versions of the remaining three concepts, will help boost Nissan's EV sales globally, with its 2026 targets standing at a 75 per cent increase in EV sales in Europe, 55 per cent in Japan and 40 per cent in China.