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2011 Infiniti Etherea Concept
Infiniti is clearly interested in expanding its model line into the compact segment, a fact evidenced by 2011 Infiniti Etherea Concept that it is currently showing off at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The most far-out styling feature of the Etherea is no doubt the crescent-shaped C-pillar, though opinions seem to vary on its effectiveness on such a compact car.
In any case, all the hallmarks of a modern-day concept car are present and accounted for, including a hybrid powertrain that features a 245-horsepower supercharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a twin-clutch system that links the electric motor to the engine. All those ponies are routed through a continuously variable automatic transmission to the front wheels.
2011 Infiniti Etherea Concept segment-busting appeal is based on the coming together of several vehicles styles. It is part elegant coupé, part spacious sedan, part practical hatchback and even part tall crossover. And being an Infiniti, there is also a large helping of sports car in the way it drives.
Like all Infinitis, Etherea puts driving pleasure high up alongside design. 2011 Infiniti Etherea Concept has been designed for a potent yet highly efficient hybrid drivetrain based around an in-house platform and the innovative one electric motor/twin clutch system used in the Infiniti M35h, the marque’s first hybrid currently going on sale around Europe.
A supercharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine developing 245 PS provides quick response and strong acceleration throughout the performance range. Boosting power when more is needed, and providing silent, emission-free driving at low speeds, is an electric motor. The transmission is a continuously variable (CVT) type and, in an Infiniti first, drive is to the front wheels.
Harmonious design and materials are central to 2011 Infiniti Etherea Concept’s interior, just as they are to any Infiniti. Features making their debut on Etherea include Kumihimo, the kimono-inspired piping on the seats, and Inuyarai, the striking vertical strips on the inside of the doors. 2011 Infiniti Etherea Concept also debuts Infiniti’s newest trim, a version of the parchment paper-style finish known in Japanese as Washi. The new finish is called Kasane-Washi and introduces a new way of layering the paper, enhancing its texture. The craftsmanship in Infiniti Etherea Concept is inspired by Japanese culture and re-interpreted through leading-edge technologies.
