Nissan and Infiniti have been “also ran” automakers for years, but a shift to electrification presents new opportunities to break through the noise and climb back up the sales charts. To get there, Infiniti is looking at a range of new models in body styles familiar and futuristic. The luxury automaker recently announced four new models that it said will lead its transformation to an all-electric company by 2030.
The concepts have familiar shapes with futuristic touches that don’t appear in the automaker’s current lineup. Infiniti’s Vision Qe concept illustrates its vision of the modern sedan, with a striking fastback shape and unique lighting elements that give it a real Tron vibe. Similarly, the brand’s QXe concept blends that styling philosophy with advanced tech and a crossover body style.
Infiniti also previewed its new QX80 flagship SUV, scheduled to arrive in 2024. The automaker previewed its upcoming luxury three-row with the QX Monograph concept earlier this year at Pebble Beach, and the new model looks to be a refinement of the existing SUV’s boxy, upright shape. Infiniti said the cabin will feature upscale materials and high-end tech that elevate the experience.
Finally, the QX65 is a new midsize crossover coupe that Infiniti said will channel its FX crossovers from years ago. The automaker promised the new SUV would be a “stylish two-row alternative in the cluttered midsize crossover segment.” Infiniti didn’t show a closeup of the vehicle, but we can get a hint from the teaser image, which displays a small crossover with seeping lines and a unique roofline.
Infiniti and parent company Nissan have work to do before they are anywhere near level with their rivals, but they haven’t been able to capitalize on missteps by others, including the fact that heavy-hitters Toyota and Honda have been slow to move on electrification. Nissan’s Ariya saw significant delays and landed well after its intended release date, losing what could have been an impressive early mover advantage. The good news for brand hopefuls is that the shift to electrification should open the door to more flexible vehicle designs and technology-sharing opportunities with the company’s alliance mates, Renault and Mitsubishi.
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