Luxury automaker Infiniti is providing a glimpse of its first electric vehicle, the “Vision Qe,” ahead of its official debut later this month. The Vision Qe offers a sleek fastback design, providing a preview of Infiniti’s venture into the electric vehicle market, although arriving later than some competitors.
Infiniti, a subsidiary of Nissan, has yet to unveil its first fully electric vehicle despite the market shifting towards electrification. The brand witnessed a decline in sales in the US, prompting a revamped visual identity and roadmap to align with the changing automotive landscape. It has even been discontinued here in Malaysia for some time now but is expected to make a comeback in our market.
As part of its plan, Infiniti aims to revamp sales and target 100,000 sales by mid-decade, relying on four new or refreshed models, including two fully electric vehicles. The updated identity encompasses retail stores with large glass windows akin to Apple stores, symbolizing a new era for Infiniti.
The Infiniti logo has also undergone modifications, emphasising the “Infiniti road” and horizon line, signifying a new chapter for the brand, which includes the introduction of its first EVs.
The Vision Qe concept will be officially revealed on October 24, along with several other new models, providing a glimpse into Infiniti’s future lineup and electrification strategy.
Some believe the inverted ‘V’ in the logo of Infiniti represents Mount Fuji, the largest mountain in Japan. Others see a mathematical symbol for infinity.
The Infiniti car logo though was created not long after the Infiniti brand’s history began in 1985. The name for the new brand, chosen in 1987, inspired the logo image, which actually attempts to symbolise a road leading towards an endless horizon.
Nissan will be stepping up its electrification strategy as it aims to be carbon-neutral across the lifecycle of its products by its fiscal year 2050. With its new long-term vision – Nissan Ambition 2030 – announced today, the carmaker will advance technologies to reduce its carbon footprint and pursue new business opportunities and become a sustainable company.
Having been a strong promoter of electric vehicles (EVs), starting with the LEAF, Nissan will continue to place electrification at the core of the company’s long-term strategy. In this respect, it aims to accelerate the electrification of its vehicle line-up and rate of technology innovation with investments of 2 trillion yen (about RM76.2 billion) over the next 5 years.
23 new electrified models to come
By fiscal 2030, the Nissan range will see 23 new electrified models, including 15 new EVs, to achieve an electrification mix of more than 50% globally across the Nissan and Infiniti brands. Within the next 5 years, 20 new EV and e-POWER equipped models will be launched and with these new models, more than 75% of sales in Europe will be electrified models by 2026. In Japan, the mix is expected to be more than 55% of sales, while in China, it will be more than 40% of sales.
“We are proud of our long track record of innovation, and of our role in delivering the EV revolution. With our new ambition, we continue to take the lead in accelerating the natural shift to EVs by creating customer pull through an attractive proposition by driving excitement, enabling adoption and creating a cleaner world,” said Nissan COO Ashwani Gupta.
Representing the next stage of Nissan’s electrified future, the company today also unveiled three new concept cars that offer enhanced experiences through sophisticated technology packaging. These concept cars are being developed under Nissan EV Technology Vision, a technology study that looks beyond the Ariya and next-generation crossover EV. The technology considers the direction of future EVs, and how advancements in battery technology, hardware and packaging can offer customers a wide variety of mobility solutions to match their needs and lifestyles.
All solid-state battery (ASSB) technology
At the core of Nissan EV Technology Vision is the integration of all solid-state battery (ASSB) technology that integrates with optimized components into a skateboard-like structure that allows for a variety of vehicle types. The optimum hardware structure will bring out the full potential of future complex software configurations and further realize the precision, performance, efficiency and versatility of EV offerings. Recharging time will be reduced to one-third, it is claimed.
CMF-EV platform
ASSB, which offers innovative integration of the body, chassis and battery pack, has ideal geometry with electric drive. Motors are located at the front and rear and together with a very low centre of gravity and ultra light weight, optimal mass distribution can be achieved. To efficiently manage and operate the vehicle precisely, AI (artificial intelligence) will also be integrated and this includes technologies such as Advanced e-4ORCE and Advanced ProPILOT.
Nissan will also continue to advance its lithium-ion battery technologies and introduce cobalt-free technology to bring down the cost by 65% by fiscal year 2028. The proprietary ASSB will be installed in EV models by fiscal year 2028.
In addition to technology upgrades, Nissan will localize manufacturing and sourcing to make EVs more competitive. The carmaker will expand its unique EV Hub concept, EV36Zero, which was launched in the UK, to core markets including Japan, China and the USA. EV36Zero is a fully integrated manufacturing and service ecosystem connecting mobility and energy management with the aim of realizing carbon neutrality.
Preview of future models
For those who worry that electrification will mean the end of sportscars from Nissan, this seems unlikely to happen. Even in the EV age, there will be sportscars although they may have a different sort of feel from today’s musclecars with combustion engines. They will still offer impressive performance, thanks to the high torque characteristics of electric motors.
The Max-Out concept (above) is one idea which Nissan designers are looking at and it is a convertible. Technical details are not available at this time but there is the promise of ‘a new driving experience with superlative stability and comfort’. The low centre of gravity will provide dynamic cornering and steering response with limited body roll and the occupants will feel united with the car. The 2-seater has a unique ability to morph the seating, flattening into the floor for more interior space when needed. This would be ideal when the driver is out on the road alone.
The Max-Out will have Advanced e-4ORCE which offers powerful, smooth and high output, ride comfort, and independent brake control. This electric-drive 4-wheel-control technology integrates Nissan’s electric propulsion and 4WD control technologies with chassis control technology to achieve a huge leap in acceleration, cornering and braking performance on par with the latest sportscars.
The Surf-Out concept (above), as the name suggests, is more of an adventure concept with the bodystyle being that of a compact pick-up. It is all-terrain capable and could have a variety of power outputs to suit different conditions. The low and flat cargo space will make stowing gear convenient, while the vehicle can also supply electric power for other devices or equipment. Like the Max-Out, this concept vehicle is also engineered with Advanced e-4ORCE.
With the Hang-Out concept (above), the designers are exploring new ideas for interior layouts. This is possible as the floor is completely flat from front to rear. Thus, the cabin can be a mobile living room which travels off the highway. Theatre-style seating will make viewing movies on the built-in display enjoyable for everyone. Special effort is made to suppress vibrations and jolts so that the occupants are less likely to experience motion sickness.
The driver will have the support of Advanced e-4ORCE and Advanced ProPILOT to make journeys safer and more comfortable. ProPILOT technology is already available in some Nissan models as the carmaker was the first to introduce a combination of steering, accelerator and braking that can be operated in full automatic mode. This technology enables autonomous operation during highway driving in single-lane traffic.
Nissan aims to expand ProPILOT technology to over 2.5 million Nissan and Infiniti vehicles by fiscal year 2026. The company will also further develop its autonomous vehicle technologies, aiming to incorporate next generation LIDAR systems on virtually every new model by fiscal year 2030.
Besides the three models, a more advanced concept model is the Chill-Out (above), which shows some of the design language that we might see in future Nissan vehicles. It sits on the modular CMF-EV platform of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance.
Designed specifically for electric vehicles, the CMF-EV platform is exceptional in its modularity. For example, it allows for the installation of batteries of different heights which means it can be used for low sedans as well as SUVs which have more ground clearance. The platform is variable in its length, making it applicable for more different types of vehicles.
Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury brand, presented its all-new QX60 crossover SUV via a short, branded-film entitled “INFINITI Presents: Conquer Life in Style with All-New QX60“, starring Kate Hudson, Golden Globe-winner and Academy Award-nominated actress, producer, entrepreneur, and mother. The association with the filmstar was said to be a ‘natural fit to bring to life the qualities of the target customer for QX60’, according to Infiniti.
The QX60, originally badged as ‘JX’, has been around for 9 years and has been made in the USA, available only in LHD form. However, the new generation will also be produced in China, only for that market.
Previewed by Monograph concept last year
The revised styling follows that seen in the Monograph concept shown last year with a more muscular appearance than before. Fine details have embedded and unique, yet subtle, Japanese essence: kimono folds in the headlamps, with the intricate folds of traditional Japanese origami. Chrome frames the signature grille and reaches up toward the corners into the signature piano key LED headlights.
An understated character line runs the length of the QX60, bisecting its two-tone roof from its lower body. The black roof — a first for the brand — visually reaches toward the rear wheels and is emphasized with chrome accents that frame the expansive greenhouse.
At the rear, digital piano key lighting — also previewed on the Monograph design study — creates an unmistakable look at night to identify the QX60. The rear taillight signature echoes the distinctive front LED headlamp display, combining powerful athleticism with harmony and simplicity, a new hallmark in Infiniti’s design language.
One engine choice only
The powertrain has a 3.5-litre V6 engine with new 9-speed automatic transmission. The Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system is significantly enhanced with an all-new direct coupling which almost instantly engages when it detects wheelslip. In some cases, it can proactively engage for better grip in slippery conditions and up to 50% of the available power can be sent to the rear wheels for increased grip. Active Brake Limited Slip functionality can brake individual wheels to redirect torque to the wheels with grip almost instantly.
Active safety features include Rear Automatic Braking, Predictive Forward Collision Warning, and Forward Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection as well as Adaptive Front Lighting and Auto-Levelling Headlights.
An enhanced ProPILOT Assist system also debuts in the QX60 and draws information from the onboard navigation system to assist the driver. The ProPILOT Assist with Navi Link system can proactively slow the car for sharp bends or off-ramps and can automatically adjust the vehicle’s speed when engaged. In stop-and-go traffic, the system can slow the QX60 to a stop and restart travel after up to 30 seconds stationary.
The new QX60 shares the same platform as the latest Nissan Pathfinder with no change in wheelbase and a slightly shorter body. Its 3-row cabin has helped make it a popular choice in markets like North America, where it has one of the brand’s bestsellers.
Cabin with theatre-style seating
The spacious cabin has premium soft-touch materials throughout with ambient interior lighting bathes the cabin with soft but expressive illumination on entry and exit. The standard panoramic moonroof opens up the airy cabin further to let in natural light.
The front seats are Nissan’s well known, ergonomically designed ‘Zero Gravity’ seats with a structure that attempts to replicate the experience felt by astronauts in zero-gravity conditions. Developed in a joint study with Yamazaki Laboratory at Keio University, the seats more closely follow the natural curvatures of the human spine and reduce pressure on the hips, so driver and passengers arrive at their destinations feeling refreshed.
For additional comfort, seat massagers are available along with the front seats having their own climate control. Customers can choose Captain’s Chairs for the second row with theatre-style seating from front to rear. In such a seating layout, each row behind the driver and front passenger rises in without significantly impacting headroom.
Latest Infiniti InTouch system
A new Infiniti InTouch 12.3-inch Interactive Display touchscreen for infotainment is standard and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and USB-based Android Auto compatibility software. A 12.3-inch Dynamic Meter Display in front of the driver presents information such as speed, navigation information and more, and can be paired with a sharp 10.8-inch Head-Up Display (HUD). The sharp HUD is significantly enhanced from earlier displays with a dual free-form mirror that provides a crisp readout from more viewing angles than before.
Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury brand which was created in 1989, will no longer be involved in Formula 1 after a 10-year presence. The brand entered the F1 scene in 2011 as a commercial sponsor of Red Bull Racing, progressing to become title sponsor of the team in 2012.
Contribution to electrification of vehicles
Following the introduction of hybrid powertrains in the sport in 2014 and given the brand’s extensive experience in hybrid performance, Infiniti became a more active F1 participant in 2016. It became technical partner of the Renault DP World F1 Team for the co-development of the Energy Recovery System (ERS).
The development work on the ERS led to an electrified performance powertrain explored through the Infiniti Q60 Project Black S. The main aim of the prototype is to test how F1 electrified performance and thermal efficiency can potentially be transferred and applied to the brand’s future electrified vehicles.
Infiniti entered F1 with Red Bull Racing in 2010 and then switched to the Renault DP World F1 Team.
5 years with Renault team
The 5-year technical collaboration with the Renault DP World F1 Team has been very successful for Infiniti. During the partnership, several Infiniti engineers have worked with the team in the development of the racing car’s ERS. Both companies have raced 100 Formula 1 rounds together, achieving a total of 459 championship points and 3 podiums.
The Infiniti Engineering Academy has also thrived during this technical partnership, given the unique opportunity it offered to work 6 months with Infiniti and 6 months with Renault DP World F1 Team. This global recruitment program received nearly 30,000 registrations from engineering students in 44 countries and 133 universities throughout the 5-year period, hosted 28 final events around the world and selected 33 winners, 50% of whom went on to secure full-time positions with Infiniti or in motorsport after completing their placements.
“This decade in Formula 1 has been an incredible and fruitful journey for us. We have had the privilege of collaborating very closely with companies that shared our goals and supported our vision, and we certainly come out of this experience wiser and stronger. We wholeheartedly thank all of our partners, and especially everyone at Renault DP World F1 Team, for the fantastic work we’ve done together during the past few years and for their continued support as we begin a new chapter focused on our development,” said Tommaso Volpe, Nissan and Infiniti Global Motorsports Director.
“Our involvement in the sport has gone from strength to strength during these past 10 years, and we have not only increased our brand awareness but also strengthened our technical credentials and capabilities. Now it is the right time for us to concentrate our resources and all the knowledge gained through our Formula 1 activities in the research and development of our new technologies and future powertrains,” he said.
Although the Range Rover, launched in the mid-1970s, can lay claim to being the first premium SUV, large premium SUVs only appeared in the late 1990s. However, the two Japanese premium brands – Lexus and Infiniti – had developed their own versions of luxury SUVs based on existing 4×4 models of their parent brands, Toyota and Nissan, respectively.
As the volumes are relatively small, it has not been viable to develop their own models so up till today, the large SUVs are still adapted from the models of the other brands. Unlike the newer models, these two original ones retain the greater degree of ruggedness and capability for off-road driving. This year, both companies are using the Rebelle Rally to demonstrate this.
Lexus J201 Concept
Lexus, Toyota’s premium luxury brand, has a range of SUVs today but before the RX came out in 1997, its only SUV was the Land Cruiser-based LX. The model line continues up till today, offering a large premium SUV which is also pretty rugged.
The LX has gone through the usual evolutionary improvements over the years being launched in 1995 and to remind people how rugged it is, the company has developed the J201 Concept which uses the current LX570’s platform. The ‘J201’ designation is even derived from the internal Lexus chassis code of the LX470 – URJ201.
The inspiration for the J201 project came from seeing how a growing number of Lexus SUV owners are going off-road with their adventurous activities. The concept SUV, which has a supercharged 550-bhp engine, is for what Lexus calls the ‘Experiential Adventurer’ and has been built by overlanding experts, Expedition Overland.
The J201 Concept will demonstrate its capabilities in the 10-day Rebelle Rally, an all-female event covering over 2,000 kms of off-road terrain in the US states of California and Nevada. The crew will be defending Rebelle Rally champions, Rachelle Croft and Taylor Pawley of The X Elles.
Infiniti QX80 Rebelle
Infiniti, Nissan premium luxury brand, also has a big flagship SUV, the QX80 which has been around for the past 16 years and is based on Nissan’s Patrol model. Like Lexus, Infiniti has also prepared a special QX80 for the Rebelle Rally. The crew of the 5.6-litre 400-bhp SUV consists of Nicole Wakelin and Alice Chase (Team Wander Women).
Infiniti worked with off-road specialists CALMINI Products to prepare the QX80, installing off-road suspension components, custom front and rear bumpers suited for demanding approach and departure angles, heavy-duty control arms, thicker skid plates, and chunky all-terrain tyres.
The red QX80 also has Off-Road Monster 18-inch wheels, a PowerTank air-up tank and digital air-down kit, plus a unique and secure custom safety cage.
About the Rebelle Rally
The Rebelle Rally was started a few years ago by Emily Miller, 51, who is very active in adventure events. Apart from being only for women, the event is unique in that the participants cannot use modern devices – no smartphones, no GPS systems – and must find their way from point to point using maps and compasses… and maybe following the sun. Yes, the old-fashioned methods of navigation that adventurers used.
In the past, a concept model was mostly a work of fantasy intended to wow crowds at motorshows but which the company would not be able to make for showrooms. Perhaps the excitement of seeing something futuristic has worn off and these days, manufacturers often show concept models that are close to what they will launch in a year or in a few years.
Displaying a future production model as a ‘concept’ allows the designers to get last-minute feedback from the public on certain ideas they may want to use. They may learn that people don’t appreciate a certain styling element and omit or modify it before production starts.
Future 3-row SUV
Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury brand, is displaying the QX60 Monograph this weekend at the Beijing Auto Show and it confirms that the concept model previews some of the proportions and design elements for the brand’s future three-row SUV.
“In crafting this concept, we wanted to change the tonality of the QX60 and transform the nameplate from a sculptural and architectural point of view. We raised the visual centre of gravity, giving it a strong, straight shoulderline that carries through to the bonnet, with a higher, more prominent grille, and longer-looking cabin to deliver a sense of muscularity and a commanding presence,” said Alfonso Albaisa, Senior Vice-President, Global Design at Nissan Motor.
Japanese inspirations
“The QX60 Monograph embodies the Japanese concept of ‘Ma,’ a sense of minimalism where designers seek harmony, adding just the right number of elements with very specific meaning to create something special. This is evident on the body, where at a glance it is simple, but when you get closer, you see that there are elements that are playing against each other in a sense of harmony,” Albaisa explained.
Focused solely on the exterior, the designers imagined the QX60 Monograph as a sophisticated yet functional solution for a busy, modern family. The proportions include a wide stance, sleek greenhouse, horizontal shoulder line and muscular wheel arches. The combination of which creates a commanding posture and defined SUV persona.
Advanced lighting appearance
Intricate ‘Digital Piano Key’ lighting at the front and rear projects a futuristic appearance and showcases how Infiniti blends human artistry with the latest technology. The inner structure of the headlamp features a shape and pattern of lines inspired by an electrical heatsink device.
Bright white at the front, and ultra-red at the back, the QX60 Monograph’s lamps are accompanied by the glowing ‘infinite road’ brand emblem. Combined, the opening light sequence begins at the logo and fans out to the headlamps in a dynamic welcome for drivers.
Viewed from the side, the Monograph shows off its horizontal bonnet, muscular fenders and long wheelbase. Paired with the gentle rake of the A-pillar and tapered, teardrop-like glasshouse, the result is a long sweeping, sophisticated profile. The roof flows into a subtly integrated rear roof spoiler — also in gloss black — to further enhance the car’s aerodynamic appearance.
At the rear, the wide body and track, complementing the horizontal window line give the QX60 Monograph a sense of poise and stability. Embossed with the INFINITI name, the SUV features large alloy wheels that fill the pronounced fenders and reinforce the performance-inspired aesthetic.
The rear lamps are tinted and, when turned off, appear to wrap around the back of the vehicle and into the rear flanks in one continuous shape. Illuminated, the piano key lighting shines through to form a beautiful, futuristic light signature.
Platinum paint and black roof
“The platinum paint on the QX60 Monograph projects a sense of warmth. The highly reflective nature mimics the qualities of liquid metal, allowing the surface of the body to capture the shadows and lights of the environment in which it is displayed creating a sense of dynamism,” said Taisuke Nakamura, Senior Design Director, Infiniti Global Design.
A large panoramic roof features a ‘kimono fold’ pattern. This geometric feature, a series of intricate perpendicular lines, draws inspiration from the folds of a silk kimono and the structures of Japan’s modern architecture.
He explained that the black roof creates a strong contrast to the rich body colour for a dramatic visual statement. The pillars, roof, front, side and rear glass all seamlessly connect — giving a panoramic feel to the cabin and promoting a sense of openness. Slim-line roof rails provide a practical counterpoint to the QX60 Monograph’s sleek, sporty proportions.
“We commenced the design of the Monograph knowing this was an opportune time to start a discussion about where we are planning to take the QX60 in the future and more broadly, where we are heading as a brand with our design language,” said Albaisa, adding that the production version of the next generation QX60 can be expected in 2021.
Current QX60 has been around since 2012 (known as JX35 at the start) and was Infiniti’s first 3-row SUV.
Running out of things to do during this #stayathome period which the Movement Control Order (MCO) requires you to do? Here’s something from Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury brand, which could help you discover a new hobby.
Drawing on its Japanese heritage and dramatic designs, Infiniti is releasing a collection of ‘Carigami’ models as part of the #ParkitforNow campaign in the USA. The project is part of the brand’s effort to encourage people to stay at home to contain the spread of COVID-19, by providing a free creative outlet for customers and fans.
Combining two elements of Infiniti brand DNA – powerfully elegant design with Japanese inspired craftsmanship – the aim is to create designs like origami. This art of folding paper is said to have its origins in China and Europe though today it is usually associated with Japanese culture.
A series of three different Infiniti models can be produced in 1:27 scale, replicating the design of the Q50, QX80, and the FX crossover. They can be downloaded for free from www.infiniti.com and printed on paper (the thicker, the better). Using a hobby knife or cutter and some glue, the templates can then be assembled into the cars.
“In this unprecedented time where citizens of the world are doing their part to fight COVID-19 by staying at home, we wanted to develop something that will help ease the boredom, while having a bit of fun” said Phil York, General Manager of Infiniti Global Brand and Marketing. He continued, “Our hope is that lovers of cars and crafts alike will enjoy Carigami.”
The team who created the project embraced the playful spirit of the concept when producing content, including capturing a scaled-down ‘at home reveal’ of the models on a record turntable (in place of the typical design revolve). The aim is to inspire users who are seeking for a creative outlet as they practice social distancing at home.
Starting with the Q50, the QX80 and the FX, Carigami model templates will be progressively available. After assembly, you can upload images of your efforts to social media and add the hashtags #ParkitforNow #Carigami.
Servicing your Nissan, Renault, and Infiniti cars here in Malaysia just got a whole lot easier with the launch of the DriveOn by TAN CHONG mobile app by Tan Chong Ekspres Auto Servis Sdn Bhd (TCEAS). The app helps to provide added convenience for owners when it comes to vehicle maintenance. (more…)
Weight has long been known as something that must be reduced as much as possible in a car. Lowering the weight brings benefits to fuel efficiency and handling, two important aspects that engineers keep trying to improve all the time. However, back in the days before computer-aided engineering (CAD), it was difficult to achieve weigh reductions and manufacturing technology then was also not able to handle advanced steel materials.
The advent of high-tensile steel was a big leap forward for the auto industry. This type of steel has high strength but the greater strength does not require extra weight. In fact, compared to conventional steel, high-tensile steel is lighter yet stronger.
Stronger steel produces a number of clear benefits for the customer. The overall weight reduction improves fuel economy, while the increased strength builds on existing safety. Since the steel is stronger, the sections become smaller and more interior space is available, producing environments that are more open for the driver and passengers.
Use of advanced high-tensile steel gets award
When creating the latest QX50, engineers at Infiniti, Nissan’s premium brand, went into molecular detail to ensure it was the best it could be in every aspect, and the science behind a more advanced high-tensile steel used in the QX50 has just received a prestigious global award.
One of the challenges of very high-tensile steel is it can be difficult to work with in the manufacturing process, limiting the complexity of parts and adoption in a new vehicle. In order to make this world’s first steel compatible for mass production, engineers worked directly with a steel supplier to formulate a brand new, high-strength, lightweight and highly formable steel for the model.
980 MPa steel supersedes 590 MPa steel
The new 980 MPa steel, created using a specially developed formula, has superseded the traditional 590 MPa steel. As part of the work around the new steel, an academic paper on ‘The application of 980 MPa advanced high strength steel with high formability’ was chosen for The SAE/AISI Sydney H. Melbourne Award for Excellence in the Advancement of Automotive Steel Sheet. It is awarded by SAE International, a global nonprofit organization based in the USA, which has more than 128,000 participating engineers and researchers working in aerospace, passenger car and commercial vehicle industries.
Around 27% of the QX50 body is made from special steels – an increase of 21% over the previous generation – resulting in a 23 kg mass reduction overall. Within the front of the car alone, the adoption of high-tensile steel has provided a 13 kg weight reduction, while frontal energy absorption improved by 10%.
With the QX50 being the first car in the world to use 980 MPa steel, Infiniti will look into adopting it in more applications in coming years. The goal is to achieve 25% or more of the vehicle weight made from advanced high-strength steel, benefiting customers with reduced weight, improved fuel economy and enhanced levels of safety.
Visit www.infiniti.com.my to know more about the models available in Malaysia.
