New Nissan NV350 Caravan Office Pod Concept Debuts – 2021 Virtual Tokyo Auto Salon

By Steve & Tamami Laser

As Japan’s largest custom car show, the annual Tokyo Auto Salon has something for everyone. Over the years, we’ve enjoyed seeing some of the most creative and amazing modified vehicles, from automakers, aftermarket companies, and custom car shops.

This year, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the organizers decided to make it virtual with live streaming to deliver the magic online from some 280 exhibitors.

Let’s take a look at one of Nissan’s cool new concepts making its debut.

Nissan NV350 Caravan Office Pod Concept

With its boxy silhouette, the long-running NV350 is the perfect shape for van conversions. We’ve seen the NV350 converted to an ambulance, a taxi, and a custom van for surfing trips. Yet Nissan has captured perhaps the perfect concept for the times by transforming the NV350 into the Office Pod Concept. On the outside, the NV350 Office Pod receives bold body graphics, over fenders, and custom wheels wrapped with BFGoodrich® All-Terrain T/A tires, designed to give it a rugged look.

Instead of commuting to work, the NV350 takes the office on the road, off-road, or anywhere the driver desires. While the idea of using a van as a mobile office is not unique, Nissan provides a new twist with the power-retractable office “pod.”

With the Office Pod in the extended position, a user can enjoy the open feeling of the great outdoors, while the NV350’s tailgate provides some overhead shelter from the elements.

The NV350 Office Pod Concept also features a polycarbonate floor, plus a wide-open rooftop deck, complete with a modern chaise lounge, and an extra-large umbrella.

When night falls, users can enjoy additional features, including black-light carpeted floor mats that display hidden images under UV light, retractable window shades that can show virtual views of the great outdoors, and a glovebox with UV antibacterial lamp to keep personal items fresh and ready for use.

Also included is a DC/AC inverter, allowing users to plug in home appliances, such as a coffee maker. About the only thing that’s missing is a water cooler for virtual hallway chats.

Note: The Nissan NV350 Office Pod is a concept vehicle and is not for sale. The regular production NV350 Caravan lineup for the Japan market is not sold in North America.

News source and photos courtesy of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. Additional news source and logo courtesy of the Tokyo Auto Salon Association (TASA)