Tokyo Motor Show - Chrysler

What will make it to the showrooms?
Maybe certain elements of the Akino concept car’ styling and seating arrangements.

The Akino is basically a styling study to come up with new ideas for family transport. It’s about the size of most European superminis and MPV-like in appearance, but the five seats are more like the three-piece suite in your home rather than the folding or removable items fitted to MPVs.

The front passenger seat swivels to face the rear bench, which can be turned into a bed.

There’s only one door on the driver’s side and two on the passenger side, opening in opposite directions.

The roof has an unusual interlocking design which improves rear headroom. The materials used to furnish the car are natural and recyclable. A throw rug, pillows and mood lighting add to the homely ambience.

The car was designed to have a hybrid engine, although currently there’s no power source at all.

What’s the best bit?
It’s sociable.

And the worst?
It doesn’t move unless you push it or tow it.

Any gossip?
It’s named after Akino Tsuchiya, a 37-year-old Japanese woman based at Chrysler’s Californian design studios.