We just want to stare at its modular design. It can be powered by a variety electric motors.
The Infiniti had us captivated last year with its stunning Prototype9 Concept – an what-if version of a 1930s-era race car. It was absolutely breathtaking in every way. Its successor is what we are focusing on this year. This retro-inspired design draws inspiration from classic speedsters. The Prototype 10 is its successor. While the Prototype 10 suggested a different past, the new concept offers a glimpse into the future.
It doesn’t necessarily mean that next-generation Infinitis won’t be single-seat, roofless runabouts. However, it is quite attractive with its elegant silver design. However, it incorporates design cues that we saw on the Q Inspiration concept, which was revealed at the North American International Auto Show in January. The car’s thin headlights, square-ish chin, and sculpted sides could be considered a production-level sports car if it was fitted with a greenhouse and roof.
Infiniti says that the design language of the future car is one of “clear lines, concise lines, and confident proportions ” that will be able to drive the form and style of the new electric powertrains. Almost all electric cars currently in production still have design elements that require internal combustion engines or related components. Infiniti hopes to show how the Prototype 10 will look when it considers the electrical components beneath the skin. With a little 1950’s retro flair.
Infiniti describes the Prototype 10’s geometric bodywork as a representation of the shock experienced from “sudden acceleration enable by a powertrain which can instantly deliver 100 percent torque with a push on the accelerator pedal.” It does have a large chin spoiler at the front and diffuser at the rear so cornering might not be a dying art.
Although the cockpit layout is minimalistic, it focuses on the driver. However, since the Prototype 10 only has enough space for one person, this seems to be a minor issue. A huge vent channels air through the car to cool its electric motor and batteries. This doesn’t mean that the car has a single motor. Infiniti explicitly labels this car as a design study so it’s likely there is nothing beneath the skin. This doesn’t negate the importance of its potential powertrain. The concept car was designed to show a modular platform that could be used in future models to include a wide range hybrid or all-electric combinations.
This could be the most important takeaway from the Prototype 10 Concept. Infiniti has committed to electrifying all of its vehicles by 2021. That means all models, hybrid or fully electric, will be electrified.
Karim Habb (Infiniti’s executive director of design), stated that prototype 10 is a link between INFINITI’s current position and the future. “Electrification for us means performance. Our cars will be powerful, efficient and highly rewarding to drive. Prototype 10 is a physical representation our electrified future.”