Infiniti M hybrid coming in 2010

Nissan has been selling a hybrid version of its Altima sedan for the past couple of years but the core technology of the vehicle, the petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain, is based on technology borrowed from Toyota. Nissan has always promised to deliver a vehicle using its own proprietary hybrid drive system, and in August of last year we got out first glimpse of some of the new technologies currently in the works.

Nissan was coy about when we’ll start seeing productions of its new hybrid system but Japanese media are now reporting that the first models will be on sale in both the U.S. and Japan by next year. The Nikkei business daily is reporting that the next-generation Infiniti M sedan (Nissan Fuga in Japan), due next year, will be the first to use the new hybrid drivetrain but that it will eventually feature in more luxury models and sports cars.

Unlike its rivals, Nissan’s system will rely on advanced lithium-ion batteries which engineers claim is better at providing quicker recharge times and more power. The drivetrain features two clutches, with the electric motor connected directly to the engine and transmission via these two separate clutches.

The parallel-powertrain hybrid system eliminates the need for conventional torque converters, contributing to higher responsiveness and linear acceleration for improved driving feel. The different driving modes include electric only drive at low speeds, combined electric and petrol power at high loads, and petrol only power when cruising.

Nissan recently previewed the latest version of its hybrid system in its Infiniti Essence concept car at the Geneva Motor Show, where it was also fitted with a pair of turbochargers and direct-injection technology for a combined output of 592hp (442kW).

To further boost performance while reducing fuel consumption, Nissan will also introduce direct-injection technology across its the range. The new M sedan will also be used to debut this technology next year.