Representing a bold next stage in Infiniti’s quest for performance luxury motoring in the most sustainable way possible, the Infiniti LE Concept is a true Infiniti with just one thing missing – a tailpipe. Making its European debut at the Paris Motor Show on September 27 in Hall 1, stand 224, the LE Concept will line up alongside the award-winning Emerg-e sports car concept and M35h production hybrid in a powerful display of “no compromise” performance motoring.
“The Infiniti LE Concept is a ‘production intent’ concept and most of what you see will become a reality,” said Bernard Loire, Vice President of Infiniti Europe, Middle East, India and Africa. “It is too early to confirm exactly when and where it will go on sale, but we are heartened by recent moves to encourage electric cars, such as France raising the purchase incentive from €5000 to €7000 per car. It is fitting that the LE Concept should make its European debut in Paris.”
Combining driving appeal with zero emissions in a dramatically-styled compact saloon body, the all-electric LE Concept is being shown in Paris with a pledge that a production version will be on sale in selected markets in around two years’ time. The showroom model will not only share the LE Concept’s advanced powertrain but also much of its design character – one that shouts “dynamic luxury” rather than “electric vehicle”. Also in line for production are its highly crafted cabin and user-friendly technology – including the possibility of a ground-breaking wireless recharging system.
At around 4.7m long, the LE Concept is a similar size to the Infiniti G Saloon, supporting Infiniti’s belief that zero emissions does not have to mean small. Nor does it mean plain: the cabin is that of a true luxury car, capitalising on the silence of the electric drivetrain to provide a tranquil ride at all speeds.
The LE Concept does not compromise either on roominess or comfort. The advanced packaging solution of placing the lithium-ion batteries under the floor not only provides a no-compromise approach to luggage and passenger room, but also contributes to the vehicle’s low centre of gravity, enhancing handling.
Staying true to the Infiniti creed of Inspired Performance, the LE Concept is designed to stimulate rather than sedate on the road. This is achieved by a high performance electric motor with 100kW (134PS), along with 325Nm (240lb ft) of torque. The target for the engineers was “impressive EV acceleration without sacrificing the range”, is expected to be around 160km. A sculpted shift knob controls the drive system, which offers several driving modes, while a centre cluster shows information such as a dynamic range calculator, using a mix of digital and analogue displays.
The battery system is a proven laminated 24 kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) design with a ChaDeMo DC50kW quick charger that can deliver an 80% charge in 30 minutes. Other charging options being looked at include an innovative home-based Wireless Charging System. This uses a coil safely encased in the charging pad to charge the battery via inductive energy flow. The Intelligent Park Assist feature will automatically align the vehicle over the charging pad for optimum charging and the driver can walk away, with no cables to connect. The high-frequency, non-contact charging, controlled by the car’s display or by smartphone, is safe for children and pets and can be installed easily in a home garage.
“A luxury car for a new generation of sustainable luxury buyers must not compromise on performance. Buyers want ‘green,’ but won’t settle for any aspect of the driving experience being less than that of their current luxury vehicles,” said Bernard Loire.
