Infiniti Essence Concept

The Essence is the halo car Infiniti needs to define itself as a luxury sports car manufacturer.
Representing the theme, "Everything I want, nothing I don't," the Essence is a front-engine, rear-drive sports coupe with seating for two. Its shape is sinewy with some interesting lines. Notably absent are side mirrors — they've been replaced with miniature cameras.
Power comes from a twin-turbocharged 3.7-liter V-6. It's not exactly the engine from the Nissan GT-R, but it's close. The initial specs call for 434 horsepower with a 7500-rpm redline, but the final car promises a total output closer to 600 horsepower. This is done with the addition of a hybrid drive system that integrates a 158-hp electric motor in parallel. It combines the two power sources by way of clutches installed ahead of the transmission.
Taking another cue from the GT-R is what appears to be a dual-clutch transmission. Rather than being an all-wheel-drive beast like the GT-R, however, the Essence will send power only to its rear wheels, resulting in superior steering feel but requiring a more attentive driver.
The interior is unique, with separated driver and passenger areas designated by a two-tone color scheme. The driver's cockpit is black, while the passenger's is a deep reddish brown. A metal shift lever and mechanical gauges are a tribute to classic sports cars, as is the car's lack of chrome. The brightwork is polished stainless steel or aluminum, giving an understated, high-quality look.
A large lithium-ion battery pack leaves minimal space for luggage. The solution? Custom luggage from Louis Vuitton. With the click of a button the rear deck opens and out slides the custom cases. The automatic luggage ejection is neat — just what you'd expect of a concept.
The Infiniti Essence seems to be part fantasy, part reality. If the hybrid technology exists to support this design, I say build it. We need future sports cars and grand tourers that offer performance, driving pleasure and fuel efficiency in one package.
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