Previewing a new generation of Infiniti vehicles, the Q Inspiration Concept proposes how an innovative VC-Turbo powertrain, next-level autonomous drive technologies, and a unique human-centric interior could enrich the experience for drivers of luxury sedans.
Presenting the next stride in Infiniti design, the exterior of the Q Inspiration Concept features a concise design with dynamic and confident proportions. The concept car eschews classical sedan forms with coupe-like proportions and an elongated silhouette, demonstrating Infiniti ’s design vision for vehicles in this segment.
Inside, the cabin features plenty of room thanks to a minimalist design, with an emphasis on driver and passenger experience. Infiniti ‘s VC-Turbo engine – the world’s first production-ready variable compression ratio engine – powers the Q Inspiration Concept and allows for optimal performance on demand while optimizing fuel economy across the powerband, previewing future uses of variable compression drivetrains.
Paired with the latest ProPILOT suite of semi-autonomous driving systems, the Q Inspiration Concept allows the driver to delegate certain driving tasks to the vehicle’s systems and enjoy the experience of the human-centric cockpit, while retaining ultimate control of the vehicle.
The front of the car is dominated by a large double-arch grille, echoing the signature design of existing Infiniti vehicles, yet exhibiting a more obsessive and technical level of execution. The appearance of the grille is matched with sharp louvers running up the sides of the hood, and blade-like vents fore and aft of the wheels. Infiniti’s hallmark human-eye headlamps have evolved to accommodate precise LED strip headlamps.
The car integrates passengers into the cabin with a human-machine interface. With wellbeing and relaxation at its core, the Q Inspiration’s human-machine interface – a touchscreen for each passenger – offers a meditation-regeneration mode. This minimizes the level of information displayed and offers guided meditation to help occupants leave any stress behind when they start a journey. The car can also monitor passenger biometrics.
The Q Inspiration’s ProPILOT autonomous drive technologies support drivers in identifying and responding to other road users and potential hazards. Acting as a co-pilot, these autonomous drive technologies enhance drivers’ capabilities and enable them to delegate more onerous driving tasks to the car.
When the driver does not require the individual performance and engagement afforded to them by their Infiniti, ProPILOT frees them from mundane or stressful driving situations. ProPILOT empowers drivers with end-to-end autonomous driving, providing autonomous multi-lane highway driving and intersection auto-navigation functionalities. These near-future technologies work alongside existing ProPILOT Assist technologies, such as the capability to navigate stop-start highway traffic and monitor the positions of surrounding vehicles.
The car has been unveiled at the 2018 North American International Auto Show.
all images courtesy of Infiniti