The Infiniti Pavilion at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is home to Infiniti’s newest Edition 30 models. Commemorating the 30th anniversary of the Infiniti brand, these exclusive versions of the Q50, Q60, QX50, QX60, and QX80 are packed with a full suite of advanced safety features and special exterior appointments.
The Infiniti Edition 30 lineup arrives at dealerships this fall
Infiniti didn’t say much on what goodies are in store for potential Edition 30 customers. But we do know the complete Edition 30 lineup arrives at US dealerships in the fall of 2019 as 2020 models. We also know the special-edition treatments include a full suite of standard driver assistance systems including a 360-degree surround-view camera system, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.
Based on the press images, the Edition 30 model lineup also includes dark chrome exterior accents including a darkened chrome grille, blacked-out exterior accents, and dark alloy wheels. This gives the Edition 30 vehicles a sportier and more aggressive vibe.
Infiniti Project Black S Concept
But the Edition 30 lineup are not the highlights of Infiniti’s return to Pebble Beach. The Japanese carmaker will showcase the much-anticipated Infiniti Project Black S Concept sports car at the Concours d’Elegance Concept Lawn on August 18. The Project Black is Infiniti’s supercar baiter equipped with electric turbochargers and the world’s first dual-hybrid powertrain.
Is the Infiniti Project Black S Concept the new Godzilla?
It’s hard to speculate at this point. But based on looks alone, the Project Black S Concept is zeroing in on Godzilla himself – the Nissan GT-R – including the new Toyota Supra and even the Porsche 911. Developed in collaboration with the Renault Formula One team, the Project Black S comes with a VR30 3.0-liter V6 engine with twin electric turbochargers.
You know what this means, right? Electrified turbochargers mean instant spool up the very moment you step on the pedal. Connected to a seven-speed automatic, the Project Black S produces 563-horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque and rushes from 0 to 60 mph in less than four seconds.
What about the dual-hybrid tech underneath?
Ah yes. Now that you mentioned it, the Infiniti Project Black S also comes with three motor-generator units (MGU). There’s a single MGU to harvest energy from kinetic braking while two MGUs harvest the heat generated by the twin electric turbochargers. The MGU-kinetic system can also send power to the rear wheels. Electricity is stored via a 4.4 kWh battery pack tucked neatly under the rear compartment.
This means the MGU units produce electrical power while braking or accelerating the vehicle. It gives the system enough juice to constantly provide electrons in powering the twin electric turbo units. This means you get a violent push from the powertrain unit without pushing the pedal to the floor. If this doesn’t sound like the merits of a potential supercar, then maybe the aerodynamics will seal the deal.
F1-inspired Aero Wizardry
Power is a big part of the equation, but aerodynamics also plays a key role in making a car as fast as possible, and so does weight – the Project Black S is adorned by carbon fiber panels for the hood, roof, and fenders. The lines, creases, and aero ducts in the bodywork were designed using digital modeling technology to provide stability at higher speeds.
Even the rear wing was not spared from F1 trickery. Designed by the Renault F1 team, the prominent rear spoiler is optimized to maximize downforce and deliver better grip. With a curb weight of under 3,915 lbs. the Project Black S has a better power-to-weight ratio than the Q60 Red Sport 400.
You can catch a glimpse of Infiniti’s Edition 30 lineup at the 2019 Concour’s d’Elegance at Pebble Beach. Infiniti also said the Project Black S in the Concept Lawn is a drivable prototype, which means the car is nearing final production specs. Infiniti’s future showroom design is also on display along with the company’s lineup of Inspiration concept vehicles like the Q, QX, and Qs.