Infiniti has
released new photos of the stunning Prototype 9 concept. Published by Motor
Trend, the images give us a better look at the retro-inspired concept which
will be unveiled at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
Looking like a modern-day silver arrow, the
Prototype 9 draws inspiration from classic race cars and features a minimalist
exterior with handcrafted aluminum body panels, an open cockpit, and exposed
wheels with a wire-mesh design. Unfortunately, things take a turn for the worse
up front as hood ornament feels out of place and the grille will undoubtedly
prove controversial.
Despite the retro-inspired styling, the Prototype 9
is an extremely high-tech vehicle as it reportedly has a powertrain that is
loosely based on the next-generation Nissan Leaf. The rear-mounted electric
motor is powered by a 30 kWh battery pack and produces a modest 148 hp and 320 Nm of torque.
That might not sound like much by today's standards
but the concept only weighs 890 kg. Thanks to its extreme
lightness, the car will accelerate from 0-60 mph in less than 5.5 seconds and
hit a limited top speed of 105 mph (168 km/h). The latter figure is a bit
disappointing and so is the claim that the model is only good for about 20
minutes of action on the track.
