An electrifying new take on a sports car: that’s how Infiniti describes its first-ever mid-engined model, the Emerg-E concept, which made its world premiere at the 82nd Geneva Motor Show.
Placing the engine in a midship position is not the only novelty introduced by the Emerg-E. It is also the brand’s first model that has been developed in Europe and its first-ever supercar.
The 4,464mm long Emerg-E is powered by a hybrid drivetrain comprising two electric motors, a lithium-ion battery pack, four inverters and a three-cylinder gasoline engine that works as a range extender.
A maximum output of 300kW (402HP) enables it to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.0 seconds and from 0-130 mph (0-209 km/h) in 30 seconds. It can also operate in EV-mode alone for up to 30 miles (48 km) and with the help of the internal combustion range extender, it has a driving range of up to 300 miles (480 km).
Shiro Nakamura, Infiniti’s Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer, commented at the press conference: “I am very pleased to introduce you a new exploration of Infiniti design language and advanced technology We have designed a shape of real energy and elegance, and one with the emotional flow you know of Infiniti. But what you cannot see is that this silk dress of a body is super light made out of carbonfibre.”
Infiniti, which hasn’t really managed to penetrate the European market, figured that it needed a halo model. The Emerg-E is that car with Nakamura adding that Infiniti’s UK engineering team will build two drivable prototypes this summer.
