Chrysler to Debut Zen-Lounge on Wheels
Of all North American brands that are sold across the world, Chrysler is the brightest shining beacon of art-deco America. Its latest
products are smart, advanced, and deliciously retro, a reflection of the 1930s Airflow, and the landmark Chrysler Building in New York City. Its latest creation, the Akino Concept, takes Chrysler's truly unique current styling theme into uncharted territory that's sure to have more than a few brows furrowed.
For the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, Chrysler will emanate a new kind of presence for the pan-Asian market, away from the recently introduced 300 sedan. After bringing over cars that import the statement "American Dream Machine" to the heart of Japan, Chrysler has decided to put together an interpretation of the modern Japanese city car, influenced by its own rich history.
As with many Honda, Toyota and Nissan urban-centric concepts, the Chrysler
Akino is a miniscule, one-box vehicle. The purpose of the Akino is to provide a mobile sanctuary, sort of a personal, private space where up to five people can hide away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. This is the reason for some of its slightly abstract features inside and out, such as texture-coated rear privacy glass, bamboo flooring, a throw rug, lighting sconces and even throw pillows. Car or portable Zen lounge? You decide.
On the outside, the Akino takes many of Chrysler's most distinctive traits and integrates them into an unfamiliar shape, with virtually nonexistent overhangs. Its amorphous nose is adorned with the big-chrome, big-metal Chrysler egg-crate grille, and angular headlamps. Other than a few minor items, such as ornamental fins on the hatch lid and winged logo on the top corner of the doors, there's little styling shared with other Chryslers. Distinctively pointed slivers form tail lamps, bumper edges and the side cladding.
Of all North American brands that are sold across the world, Chrysler is the brightest shining beacon of art-deco America. Its latest
 |
| For the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, Chrysler will emanate a new kind of presence for the pan-Asian market. (Artist's Rendering: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
For the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, Chrysler will emanate a new kind of presence for the pan-Asian market, away from the recently introduced 300 sedan. After bringing over cars that import the statement "American Dream Machine" to the heart of Japan, Chrysler has decided to put together an interpretation of the modern Japanese city car, influenced by its own rich history.
As with many Honda, Toyota and Nissan urban-centric concepts, the Chrysler
 |
| As with many Honda, Toyota and Nissan urban-centric concepts, the Chrysler Akino is a miniscule, one-box vehicle. (Artist's Rendering: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
On the outside, the Akino takes many of Chrysler's most distinctive traits and integrates them into an unfamiliar shape, with virtually nonexistent overhangs. Its amorphous nose is adorned with the big-chrome, big-metal Chrysler egg-crate grille, and angular headlamps. Other than a few minor items, such as ornamental fins on the hatch lid and winged logo on the top corner of the doors, there's little styling shared with other Chryslers. Distinctively pointed slivers form tail lamps, bumper edges and the side cladding.