Not only did Nissan debut a new concept vehicle at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show – it also surprised the crowd with the introduction of Canto, the future of Nissan’s electric cars.
“An important element of Nissan Intelligent Mobility is how the vehicle mixes with society, and a top component is sound,” said Daniele Schillaci, executive vice president for global marketing and sales, zero-emission vehicles and the battery business.
Intelligent Mobility is the company’s approach to changing how cars are powered, driven and integrated with society.
“The Canto was developed to help with pedestrian safety, as well as to provide a distinct sound – one that is energising and confident, authentic to our brand and marks our position in the electrified vehicle market.
“Canto is the English word for a section of a poem but it comes from Latin meaning ‘I sing’. The car’s sound changes in tone and pitch depending on whether the vehicle is accelerating, decelerating or backing up. The sound is activated at speeds of up to 20km/h to 30km/h.”
The Canto was created with the goal of developing an alert sound as the priority. However, it is also designed to enrich the sounds of the typical city street with a distinct Nissan flair. The level of the sound will be clearly audible, without being loud enough to disturb pedestrians, residents and other occupants.
Nissan has been a pioneer in the vehicle sound arena since 2010, with its “approaching vehicle sound for pedestrians” system.
