Infiniti is celebrating their 30th anniversary this week and the company is marking the occasion by revealing new details about their electrification plans.
While a number of automakers are embracing electric vehicles, Infiniti isn’t putting all their eggs in one basket. Instead, the company will offer both electric vehicles and “gas-generated EV models.” The latter will be equipped with a petrol engine that acts as a generator.
As part of the company’s “two powertrains, one platform” approach, future models will ride on platforms which can accommodate both powertrains. EVs will have a high-capacity battery pack, while gas-powered EVs will have a smaller battery, a fuel tank and a 1.5-liter three-cylinder petrol engine with variable compression technology.
Also Read: Infiniti Qs Inspiration Previews An Upcoming Electrified Production Model
Infiniti didn’t go into too many specifics, but confirmed gas-powered EVs will have a battery pack that ranges in capacity from 3.5 to 5.1 kWh. It will power an all-wheel drive system with an electric motor on each axle.
The motors will have a combined output ranging from 248 hp (185 kW / 251 PS) to 429 hp (320 kW / 435 PS). The latter high-performance variants will be to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in around 4.5 seconds.
Unlike plug-in hybrids, Infiniti’s gas-powered EVs won’t have a charging port. Instead, all electricity will be generated by the petrol engine.
The company’s dual powertrain strategy is a tad unusual, but Infiniti believes gas-powered EVs offer the best of both worlds. As they explained, they’ll have thrilling and instantaneous acceleration without drawbacks such as a limited range and a lackluster recharging infrastructure.
Furthermore, gas-powered EVs will have lower emissions than conventionally powered vehicles. They’ll also act as a “bridge to full electrification” as some customers aren’t ready to embrace traditional electric vehicles.
New Look To Accompany New Powertrains
Future models will have a new look as Infiniti says designers won’t have to create vehicles around an “internal combustion engine, propshaft, fuel tank or transmission.” This means they’ll be able to explore new shapes and proportions as well more efficient packaging.
As part of this effort, future models will have a “Powerful Serenity” design that promises to be “progressive, seamless and [as] powerful as their electrified powertrains.” They’ll also be very Japanese and incorporate the spatial concept of “Ma” which is described as “emptiness full of possibilities, potential and anticipation.”
Infiniti says future electric vehicles will have designs that emphasize the smooth, muscular spaces between the sharp, sheer lines of their bodywork. The company also said the models will have “svelte, graceful and uncluttered” styling as well as surfaces and creases inspired by origami.
One of the biggest changes will be the elimination of a traditional grille. It will be replaced by an outline of a grille which features a prominent Infiniti logo.
The exterior styling won’t be the only thing that changes as the cabin will benefit from improved packaging and a battery located beneath the floor. This will allow designers to create larger and more spacious interiors that are “lounge-like.”
Note: Infiniti Q Inspiration and Qs Inspiration concepts pictured
