Nissan Pathfinder, Electric Van Concepts Debuting At Detroit Auto Show: UPDATED

Update: Nissan just released the first teaser image of the upcoming Pathfinder Concept which will make its debut at the Detroit Auto Show next month. From the teaser image we can pick out curved front and rear fender flares, and a sweeping character line down the side of the body. And that's about it. The outline of the Pathfinder Concept bears a distinct resemblance to the new 2013 Infiniti JX, which we've seen unmasked in photos and in person, at the 2011 Los Angeles auto show.

With announcements of new vehicles due at the Detroit Auto Show coming by the handful--vehicles like the 2013 Buick Encore, Acura NSX Concept, and Smart For-us, it was only a matter of time before Nissan showed its hand.

The automaker, which returns to the auto show this year with its co-brand Infiniti, has announced it will preview the next-generation Pathfinder by showing a Pathfinder Concept.

While little is known about the next-generation Pathfinder, we've heard rumblings that it will be a unibody crossover more in line with the new Ford Explorer and Dodge Durango. Styling will likely follow that of the Murano and Sentra. The front and rear ends are likely dropping the blocky, squared-off look in favor of swoopy, flowing lines. The Pathfinder will share its platform with the new 2013 InfinitI JX, which almost guarantees a third-row seat. We expect the new Pathfinder to launch in the fall of 2012 as a 2013 model.

Also on hand will be both an electric van concept and an NV200 food truck. Little is known about the electric van concept that Nissan is bringing to the Detroit show, but our money says it'll be battery-powered version of Nissan's new NV200. While an electric NV200 is already being tested by FedEx in Europe, we have yet to see one on our shores. The model FedEx is testing uses the drivetrain from the Nissan Leaf and has the ability to be quick-charged to 80 percent of capacity in a mere 30 minutes while using a DC Fast Charge system. If Nissan were to bring this vehicle to market, it would likely have its eye on the new Ford Transit Connect Electric.

Last but certainly not least, Nissan plans to have a food truck set up in its booth. This is all in an effort to show the versatility of the NV200 van. Nissan pulled a similar stunt feeding many auto journalists at the LA Auto Show last month.