Infiniti Essence concept with Shiro Nakamura

The Infiniti Essence concept was first presented as a concept at the 79th International Motor Show of Geneva. I met up with Shiro at the 59th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. I had the rare opportunity of sitting inside the leather/suede Essence with Shiro.

The dramatic design flows from the outside to the interior. The concept is based on a 592-horsepower, rear-wheel-drive gasoline/electric hybrid coupe.

Essence Overview

* A front-engined, two-seat, 592-horsepower, rear-wheel drive luxury coupe concept measuring 185 inches long
* A preview of Infinitis gasoline/electric hybrid drivetrain “ capable of high speeds when conditions allow, zero emissions where they dont
* Fresh design language to influence future production models
* New safety technology, including Back-up Collision Prevention
* Minimalist and intensely driver-focused interior
* “New luxury” meets traditional Japanese craftsmanship
* Louis Vuitton fitted luggage to maximize trans-continental capability

About the Author: Lou Ann Hammond

Lou Ann Hammond is the CEO of Carlist and Driving the Nation. She is the co-host of Real Wheels Washington Post carchat every Friday morning and is the Automotive, energy correspondent for The John Batchelor Show and a Contributor to Automotive Electronics magazine headquartered in Korea. Hammond is a member of the North American Car and Truck of the Year (NACTOY), Women's World Car of the Year (WWCOTY), and the Concept Car of the Year.