Built as part of a UK-sponsored technology initiative, the Infiniti Emerge-E electric sports car concept is the first Infiniti model to be designed in Europe. Called the “ulitmate expression of Infiniti’s inspired performance,” the mid-engined, twin-motored concept gives a glimpse into the future of sports cars.
Power comes from both a lithium-ion battery pack and from a generator powered by a gasoline-fueled three-cylinder engine. Infiniti says the rear-drive Emerge-E is capable of sprinting from 0 - 60 mph in four seconds, or from 0 - 130 mph in 30 seconds. The battery range is said to be 30 miles, although we suspect that may be decreased by full-throttle starts.
As with the Fisker Karma and Chevrolet Volt, the Emerge-E switches from battery mode to generator mode when the battery pack is depleted, giving the Emerge-E a theoretically unlimited range (as long as you stop for gasoline, that is). Infiniti isn’t saying what kind of fuel economy the Emerg-E will deliver in generator mode, nor is it defining the total range on a full tank of gas.
With over 737 pound-feet of torque available at zero rpm, the Emerge-E has the potential to be highly entertaining. There’s no denying that it’s wrapped in some sexy bodywork as well, and Infiniti’s Chief Creative Officer, Shiro Nakamura, describes the body as “silk wrapping over the wheels.”
It’s still unclear whether or not the Emerge-E will see production, but its a safe bet that the technology developed for the concept will see the light of day. We wouldn’t be surprised to see styling elements of the Emerge-E make their way to future Infiniti models, either.
For more news and live images from Geneva, check out our dedicated 2012 Geneva Motor Show page.
