subject: Boston Infiniti FX dealer anticipates big things for Infiniti electric model [print this page] Boston Infiniti FX dealer anticipates big things for Infiniti electric model
Infiniti engineers must have been listening to some old Eddie Grant tunes because they are planning to "rock down to Electric Avenue" with the first Infiniti luxury vehicle. Or maybe they just decided that with the success of little brother Leaf that it was time they go in on the fun.
Regardless, Infiniti has entered the electric arena and this luxury branch of Nissan will likely create a more luxurious electric than we can imagine. Infiniti has given us amazing models like the G35/37 and this electric is sure to be impressive. Boston used Infiniti QX owners will have to be patient, though.
Many of the obstacles of early electric cars have been overcome - range has increased hugely in the last couple of years, from under 20 miles to nearly 100 for some models. Speed has increased too, and most electrics can be driven just like a normal vehicles. The charging challenges and cost of batteries is still being worked out, but charging stations are beginning to show up in some metro areas and quick-charge batteries have been developed as well.
Boston Infiniti FX buyers should support this electric technology. Even though it won't be on the market until 2013, the Infiniti electric promises "stylish, high performance five-seat luxury . . .with zero emissions technology. The car will be based on the Nissan LEAF, but a bigger platform would be nice.
So far we've only been teased with a sketch of the Infiniti electric and no name has been settled either, although if it follows suite with most of the recent names it will contain a letter and a couple of numbers. Apparently all possible vehicle names in the world have been taken and we must now resort to random combinations of letters and numbers which all sound alike.
We do know the car will be roomy enough to seat five and that it will probably have a decent range. "This future EV will play a major part of Infiniti's eco performance' strategy that will see a greater focus on hybrid and EV technology," Infiniti Vice President Ben Poore stated. "We are committed to applying the world's best technologies to reduce emissions without sacrificing driving excitement or engagement a pledge that will become more evident soon with the upcoming introduction of our new Infiniti M Hybrid."
For now, the 2012 Infiniti M35h hybrid will be out in the spring with Infiniti's Direct Response Hybrid technology. With a six-cylinder engine, it feels more powerful, and pulls 302-horsepower supported by a 67 horsepower electric motor. Just one more model for Boston used Infiniti QX customers to anticipate.
Capable of up to 50 mph on strictly electric power, the M35h has a compact lithium-ion battery pack which leaves room for lots of passenger and storage space. Boston Infiniti FX customers will want to check out the hybrid while we wait for the all-electric in a couple of years.
