2011 The Nissan Townpod provides a simple platform

As our working and living situations evolve with the opportunities afforded by the digital age, our cars must adapt to the way we conduct our lives. Throughout the world, a new breed of entrepreneur has emerged. Preferring to work for themselves from their own homes or small offices, these new professionals do not work fixed hours, or have regimented schedules. The lines between their business and social lives are blurred, even non-existent, so their means of personal transportation must be equally multifaceted.

Range is estimated at 100 miles, but the Townpod is clearly no sports car. Nissan is cagey about power figures, yet sources say the lithium-ion-supplied motor generates similar performance to the Micra, so expect about 70bhp.

That’s not a huge amount, yet as the unit delivers 100 per cent of its torque from zero rpm, the car feels surprisingly perky at low speeds – proof that, in future, fun and functionality will be more closely linked than ever.