Nissan’s Advanced Minivan

Birth defects, impaired learning, liver toxicity and other health problems - these, according to a study conducted by the Ecology Center two years ago, are just some of the effects of too much exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) - chemicals used in seat cushions, armrest, floor coverings and other interior auto components. Solar exposure triggers these chemicals to produce reactions leading to the abovementioned serious health problems.

Good thing, the 2008 International Auto Show in Detroit highlighted concept cars focusing on vehicle's interiors, the AIADA newsletter reports. A time out button on the steering wheel allowing the driver to talk over a microphone and an XM Satellite Radio's real-time weather service that provides weather reports to drivers even miles ahead by breaking the weather map into blocks are just some of the pride of these upcoming cars.

The Nissan Forum, that's said to be identical with the Nissan Intima Concept, has all those concepts. Having an advanced Bose Media System with individual seat-mounted speakers, proximity sensor-based information controller, a one-button audio muting system and monitoring cameras on its second and third row, this Forum indeed have the most advance technology for minivans.

It also flaunts trackless sliding doors making entry and exit more convenient to its passengers as well as second row seats that swivel up to 90 to 180 degrees towards the third row bench just the way an Acura Integra window regulator works.

Nissan Forum is a genius product of Nissan Design America. It will have its preview this December.

But we must take note, there's something more than aesthetic appeal and comfort - that is health safety. Examine.