The Infiniti Project Black S is a radical rework of the Q60 coupe said to celebrate the brand’s association with the Renault Formula One team.
However the concept has another, important role – Infiniti management wants to know if high-performance versions of its model range would be popular and reaction to Project Black S will be closely noted – approval from Geneva Motor Show visitors could lead to a future production model.
The car’s powertrain adds Formula One technology in the form of a KERS – Kinetic Energy Recovery System – to the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine of the Q60. Developed by Renault F1 engineers the KERS harvests energy, for example, developed under braking, to boost power and torque, pushing the car’s output to 500bhp.
Styling to match the potency is added, based around a matt grey exterior colour with gloss black detailing replacing the chrome of mainstream Infiniti models.
Composite body elements
Carbon fibre is also used extensively, including a large front splitter, rear diffuser, wings and side skirts. Ultra-thin aero ‘blades’ are fixed in the side sills ahead of the rear wheels to channel air around the lower body of the car while a large fixed rear wing – also made of carbon fibre – is mounted at the rear.
The Infiniti Project Black S features a matt grey paint finish with gloss black detailing. Photo: Andrew Charman
Other bespoke touches include larger air intakes at the front to channel cold air into the engine bay and brakes, and vents in the bonnet to allow heat to escape. Forged 21-inch aluminium alloy wheels – larger, wider and lighter than those on the standard Q60 – are fitted under wheel arch extensions.
“The company believes there is potential for a ‘Black S’ grade that offers progressive levels of product enhancement – including higher power and torque from innovative powertrains, new or uprated suspension systems, and unique design elements,” Infiniti says.
“Project Black S suggests what a Black S grade could offer customers, and the concept’s debut in Geneva will help Infiniti gauge potential interest in daring high-performance derivatives of its cars that benefit from genuine motorsport technology.”
Keyword: Geneva: Infiniti Project Black S debuts