The NIDO by Pininfarina Rethinks Automobile Design

The NIDO by Pininfarina Rethinks Automobile Design
With the Nido project, Pininfarina has chosen to rethink the current methodology of the car design process, resulting in an innovative concept, which reexamines safety in small automobiles.

The Nido concept builds upon Pininfarina's grand tradition of continuous investment in research and development programs in each of the Company's areas - Design, Engineering and Manufacturing - to quickly and methodically tackle contemporary problems as they arise in the automotive industry.

For example, during the 70's energy crisis, the industry looked towards aerodynamics and alternative energy sources to cut fuel consumption. Pininfarina responded by developing the CNR Energetica 1 prototype, an ideal aerodynamic body shape, and the electric powered Ecos. In the 80's Pininfarina's pioneering research into lightweight material application bore the Audi Quartz and Lancia Hit prototypes, which explored the use of new light metallic and composite materials.

The 90's witnessed to heightened environmental awareness, spawned research into recyclability of materials, improved ergonomics and more efficient vehicle packaging.

Pininfarina offered solutions with the Ethos macro-project, a family of three cars with aluminum chassis, recyclable plastic bodywork and innovative, low emission internal combustion engines, highlighted by the 19