Infiniti revealed the design of its first electric crossover — but not much else. Nissan Motor Co.’s luxury brand said Friday it plans to show the QX Inspiration concept at the Detroit auto show this month.
The concept will be the blueprint for a production electric crossover in the next couple years. Infiniti plans to electrify its portfolio from 2021 onward, using either its e-Power hybrid system or full EV powertrains. Infiniti, however, is late to the electrification game.
“Electrification and other new technologies have given us the opportunity to evolve our design philosophy,” Karim Habib, Infiniti’s executive design director, said in a statement. “The concept car we will show in Detroit is the beginning of a new era for Infiniti, and an illustration of where we want to go with the brand.”
Infiniti was light on details about the QX Inspiration, vaguely noting the cabin is “hand-crafted using traditional techniques and a choice of materials inspired by a subtle Japanese sensuality.”
New interior technology, meanwhile, “follows the Japanese hospitality principle of omotenashi, creating a welcoming environment while assisting drivers and connecting occupants to the world around them.”
Infiniti used the 2018 Detroit show to introduce the Q Inspiration sedan concept. And in August, the automaker showed off the Prototype 10, an electrified single-seat speedster concept.
“The industry is at a technological inflection point,” said Roland Krüger, Infiniti’s president, adding that Infiniti has “a compelling vision as a luxury challenger brand to bring … electric vehicles to customers around the world.”
