The luxury electric vehicle has landed – star of the New York International Auto Show is the Infiniti LE. Officially it’s still a concept but Infiniti admits that a production version of the sleek zero-emission sedan will hit the streets within the next two years “in near-similar form”.
Like the stunning Infiniti EMERG-E range-extender sports concept that wowed the Geneva Motor Show, the LE Concept combines a sweeping aerodynamic body – with a Cd figure of just 0.25 – with an elegant interior, inspired driving dynamics and advanced next-generation technology. The difference, of course, is that the LE is a 100 per cent pure electric vehicle.
About the same size as an Infiniti G sedan, Infiniti LE Concept uses advanced lithium-ion batteries which are mounted low in the floor. This layout provides optimum weight distribution and doesn’t encroach on cabin/luggage space. They power a high performance electric motor, rated at 134hp, which drives the front wheels. Check out the technical specification here.
As well as a conventional charging port, Infiniti LE Concept has an innovative Wireless Charging System which uses inductive energy flow. All the driver has to do is park the car over a coil encased in the floor of his garage and which is connected to a power source. When a second coil – built into the Infiniti – is placed overhead, a magnetic field is created which excites electric current in the car’s coil and which then recharges the battery. Clever, fuss-free and safe.
As anyone who’s driven an electric car will know, instant and rapid acceleration is a given, while the low centre of gravity will mean superb handling. Add all the luxury expected from an Infiniti and the LE is certain to advance Nissan’s global leadership in sustainable mobility. As President and CEO Carlos Ghosn told visitors to the New York Show: “In a rapidly changing world, Infiniti is well ahead of the game.”
• Find out more on Infiniti Newsroom
• See the Infiniti LE Concept Reveal video
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