So after a couple of highly intriguing teasers the new Nissan Gripz Concept makes its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, revealing the most radical crossover concept ever to grace the hallowed ground of the IAA. The car, according to Nissan, is inspired by classic desert rally cars and racing bicycles.

That would invariably result in an odd mixture, and you know it has when realize they call this design language ‘emotionalgeometry’. This is going to be how Nissan designs their cars from now on: inspired by things other than cars. It’s an interesting concept though, this Nissan Gripz. Fun and games oozes off of this thing, which is the whole point, as Nissan likens it to a mountain bike and those things are hella fun.

In spite of its naughty exterior, Nissan Gripz Concept is a fairly sophisticated thing underneath. It is equipped with an EV technology based on ‘Pure Drive e-Power’ system with a small petrol engine hooked up to an electric motor from the LEAF. There is no mention of performance figures, but Nissan says it offers a smooth, refined and exhilarating driving experience with outstanding fuel efficiency.

“Nissan pioneered the idea of the compact crossover, and this is reflected in the enormous popularity of Qashqai and Juke and the resulting growth of the market segment as other manufacturers play catch-up. While the Nissan Gripz Concept is not seen as a direct replacement for either of those two iconic vehicles, it does show the extremes to which the compact crossover can be pushed,”said Shiro Nakamura, Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer.