Infiniti embraces electric future
Pure-electric SUV could put Infiniti ahead of Lexus. Sort of, writes David Linklater.
Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury brand, is sometimes accused of following Lexus a little too closely. You could argue that the QX Inspiration SUV concept being unveiled tomorrow at the North American International Auto Show puts Infiniti ahead for once: it’s a plug-in luxury crossover that the company says points the way to its near-future models.
The QX Inspiration follows on from the Q Inspiration sedan unveiled this time last year; except that had petrol power rather than the pure-electric powertrain of the QX version.
An electric QX would be a huge step forward for Infiniti. While rival Lexus is well-known for its hybrid models, it hasn’t gone so far as to launch a proper EV (with a plug, in other words).
All sounds exciting and original, especially as Infiniti has pledged that all future models will be heavily reliant on electrification, including pureEV power.
As they should be: the NissanRenault Alliance is a leading maker of EVs in the mainstream space.
But then Infiniti’s blurb goes on to say that the QX Inspiration cabin has been ‘‘hand-crafted using traditional techniques and a choice of materials inspired by a subtle Japanese sensuality. The new interior technology follows the Japanese hospitality principle of ‘‘omotenashi’’, creating a welcoming environment, while assisting drivers and connecting occupants to the world around them.
Nice idea, but the omotenashi principle has already been heavily espoused by Lexus in relation to the latest LS. Oh well, old habits and all that.
The Inspiration cabin does sound promising, because an EV-specific platform free of the constraints of an internal combustion engine and the associated hardware has allowed what Infiniti calls a ‘‘spacious, lounge-like interior’’.