Providing a real-world take on a next-gen compact SUV crossover, the Chevrolet FNR-X Concept made its debut at the Shanghai Auto Show. Unlike Chevy’s original FNR (for Find New Roads–a one-off that was presented at the same show in 2015, this still flashy follow-up jettisons over-the-top design flourishes in favor of a modern-chic exterior complemented by a host of trick tech that range from a multi-mode plug-in powertrain to an Advanced Driver Assist System with near-autonomous capability.
Visually, the FNR-X Concept melds elements from Chevy’s current design portfolio with avant-garde body contours and subtle Asian inspirations. Among them are the Chinese woodworking influences apparent in mortise-and-tendon joint look seen in this crossover’s full LED front and rear lighting. In addition to aero-enhancing automatic grille shutters and adaptive blades on the wheel spokes, the FNR-X’s wind-cheating bag of tricks also includes front and rear spoilers as well as active side skirts that move up or down to match the drive mode. Other features include an adaptive suspension that allows the FNR-X to modify its handling as road conditions warrant and that the gas/electric powertrain features both V (Versatility) and S (Sport) modes.
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Remote-control doors
The absence of a B-pillar coupled with conventional front and remote-controllable coach-style rear doors ease access to the FNR-X Concept’s roomy passenger cabin which boasts a rich feature set of its own. High-tech hex-pattern fabrics inspired by graphene crystal structures cover the seats, while ambient lighting is on offer to better tailor the mood of the vehicle to the nature of the journey. Like any good multipurpose vehicle, this Chevy’s split rear seats also fold flat to enhance cargo capacity, although that sharply raked back glass will definitely impact its total toting capability.
The tech side of the equation on the FNR-X Concept opens with intelligent connected mobility capabilities that link an Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) dynamic display, an intelligent speech recognition and an ID-customizable information setup. Also in the cabin is a panoramic intelligent augmented reality head-up display that provides a clear 270-degree posterior-lateral view and an all-terrain Advanced Driver Assist System. With a battery of optical and acoustic recognition sensors the FNR-X Concept also provides “highly autonomous assistance” by selecting optimal routing based on its assessment complex road conditions.
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“The Chevrolet-FNR is one of Chevrolet’s most forward-thinking concept cars, truly exemplifying the brand’s passion for innovation and ingenuity,” said Alan Batey, GM executive vice president and president of GM North America and Global Chevrolet at the latest Shanghai reveal. “The FNR-X builds on the design and technology showcased on the original FNR concept and embodies the belief at Chevrolet’s core that anything is possible.” While anything may be possible, there’s still no indication that Chevy has any production plans for the FNR-X.
