With its new 2012 M Hybrid set to formally bow in at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November, Infiniti has just announced that it will introduce a dedicated pure electric vehicle to various global markets in 2013, including the United States. Details on this purpose-built premium EV are largely confined to a semi-revealing sketch and the fact that it will be a “stylish, high performance five-seat luxury vehicle with zero emissions technology” that will fully embody the brand’s “Inspired Performance” philosophy. The vehicle will be based on a bespoke derivative of the Nissan LEAF platform, although it will share no sheetmetal or interior bits with its Nissan cousin.
According to Infiniti Vice President Ben Poore, “This future EV will play a major part of Infiniti’s ‘eco performance’ strategy that will see a greater focus on hybrid and EV technology. We are committed to applying the world’s best technologies to reduce emissions without sacrificing driving excitement or engagement — a pledge that will become more evident soon with the upcoming introduction of our new Infiniti M Hybrid.”
On display at the Paris Auto Show and on sale here in the spring, the 2012 Infiniti M35h Hybrid is fitted with Infiniti’s Direct Response Hybrid Technology that matches a 302-horsepower/3.5-liter V6 with a 67-horse electric motor. In addition to delivering V8-level performance with four-cylinder fuel economy, the Infiniti says the M35h Hybrid will be able reach speeds of up to 50 mph on electric power alone.
