The Chappo's jaunty shape signals a break from the usual youth vehicle of choice, the sports car. Young people who cannot afford their own homes increasingly depend on a set of wheels to get away from their families and spend time with friends. The single seat on the passenger side slides back and forth on a track, creating a sofa effect if desired. The rear window is shaded by a motorized sliding screen, a kind of high-tech shoji. The Chappo has two computer screens, one popping up from the dashboard, the other dropping down from the ceiling.
Passengers can play video games or watch DVDs, and use the Internet.
The boxy configuration allows for more headroom and larger side doors than conventional sedans, said the interior's designer, Kaoru Satou. The folding door on the passenger side opens to provide an extremely wide entry. To automotive purists devoted to the shapes of speed, brick-shaped cars designed from the inside out are anathema. There has to be some sculpture there. Many buyers do buy from the inside out - falling for cushions and cup holders, space configuration and foot room.