Development of World Car: Infiniti

Showing posts with label Infiniti. Show all posts

Geneva Preshow: Infiniti Outlines New Concept for Entry-Level Model

A pair of black and white sketches outlining the shape of what appears to be a hatchback model and a statement from Infiniti's Vice President, Andy Palmer, in 2010 saying that the brand is exploring the development of a new entry-level vehicle, is all we get about the Japanese luxury brand's new concept car that will debut at the Geneva Motor Show in the beginning of March.

However, we'll remind you during the September 2010 announcement, Mr. Palmer had shown a more revealing teaser rendering of an all-electric model capable of seating up to five passengers, which he said would enter production in 2013.

There have been unconfirmed reports that Infiniti will show a new hatchback model powered by Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder engines as part of the Daimler and Renault-Nissan deal signed in April 2010, but given the reference to Mr. Palmer's statement at the opening of the Infiniti Centre Piccadilly in London, an EV hatchback concept sounds more likely.
On a side note, even though Infiniti did not give us a name for the Geneva Salon concept, the images were saved as "Eftheria", which could be the name of the study.

We will follow the story and bring you any new information as soon as we get it.

Infiniti Press Release:
“Infiniti is currently examining concepts for a luxury performance car that will fit below the current G Line. Like every Infiniti, it will be completely different to anything currently offered by our rivals.” So said Andy Palmer, Senior Vice President for Infiniti, at the opening of the Infiniti Centre Piccadilly in London during September 2010.
Fast forward to the 81st Geneva International Motor Show where at 12:15 CET on March 1, 2011, Infiniti will present its next Inspired Performance: a concept car that will take the Japanese performance brand down a new road, to a new future.

New 2012 Infiniti M35h Hybrid Rated at 29 mpg Combined

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) fuel economy figures for Infiniti's all-new M35h are finally out. According to the government agency, the Japanese brand's first-ever hybrid model returns an estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg on the combined cycle.
For comparison, the conventional M37 with a 330HP 3.7-liter V6 is rated at 18 mpg City and 26 mpg Highway, while the M56 that is powered by a 420HP 5.6-liter V8, at 16 mpg City and 25 mpg Highway.

The M35h's drivetrain pairs a 3.5-liter 24-valve V6 engine with 306HP to a 50 kW [68HP] electric motor for a system net output of 360 horsepower. Both the gasoline V6 and electric motor deliver their power to the rear wheels via a 7-speed automatic transmission. Infiniti says the 1.830 kg (4.035 lbs) luxury sedan can reach 62mph (100km/) from standstill in 5.5 seconds en route to a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).
According to the Japanese automaker, the M35h can drive on electric power alone at speeds up to 62 mph for a distance of up to 1.2 miles at a time.
U.S. sales of the 2012 M35h will start this spring.

Infiniti Etherea Hybrid Concept Previews New Compact Hatchback

This five-door hatchback model is the Infiniti Etherea concept, and it's set to be unveiled at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show in March. The Etherea previews the Japanese brand's foray into the compact luxury segment, with the production model scheduled to enter the market within the next two to three years.

Designed under the supervision of Senior Vice President of Design Shiro Nakamura, the 4.4 meter long concept is said to blend elements of coupé, sedan, hatchback and even crossover models "in one highly sculptural, near-mono volume form". The Etherea also incorporates styling cues from the Japanese firm's well received Essence sports car study from 2009 including the...blurry-shaped C-pillar and front grille design.
While Infiniti did not publish any information on the Etherea's mechanical hardware, the logo on the front fenders tells us that it gets a hybrid powertrain. We'll have more on the Etherea concept after its presentation at the Geneva Salon.

Hybrid car concept

2011 Infiniti Cars M35h Sports Sedan The "Driver's" Hybrid

The “driver’s hybrid” from Infiniti, the M35h sports sedan, will introduce world-first steering and braking technologies when it goes on sale in the USA and Europe in 2011. The company calls the M35h a "driver's hybrid," with innovations in both steering and braking technologies designed to blend fuel efficiency with driving feel. As the first in-house hybrid from Nissan/Infiniti, the M35h is pretty unassuming. Indeed, although the test cars we drove in Japan were covered with decals advertising their gasoline-electricness, small “hybrid” badges on the production models’ front fenders will be the biggest powertrain giveaway once the cars arrive stateside next spring.

The Infiniti’s single electric motor is located between the engine and automatic transmission, in place of a conventional torque converter. The 67-hp motor is connected to the crankshaft via a wet-plate clutch. This allows the M to use its 1.3-kWh, 340-volt lithium-ion battery pack for electric-only propulsion at speeds up to about 60 mph as long as the driver keeps throttle application below 20 percent.

The 2011 Infiniti sports sedan M35h uses a 3.5-litre petrol V6 and a 68 PS (50 kW) electric motor for propulsion while power is put to the ground via a seven-speed automatic gearbox. The brakes are similarly designed primarily to suit sports sedan buyers’ needs, but at the same time contributing to the lower carbon footprint of the M35h, low CO2 champion of Infiniti’s all-new M Line sports sedan line-up.

Central to this is its one motor/two clutch system. The first clutch is installed between the naturally-aspirated 3.5-litre V6 and the electric motor, which is embedded within the automatic transmission. The electronically controlled clutch allows the full decoupling of the V6 when the car is in electric drive and power regeneration modes. Decoupling the V6 reduces mechanical drag and boosts the efficiency of the electric motor.

Aided by an exceptionally fast charge/discharge response from the lithium-ion battery pack, the result is a hybrid that’s electrically powered for more of the time, and at higher speeds, than conventional hybrids.

Infiniti’s sports sedan first hybrid, the M35h is the low CO2 star of the all-new M Line which also includes petrol and diesel models and which is the first M ever to be sold in all of Infiniti’s 34 world markets.

2011 Infiniti Cars M35h Sports Sedan The "Driver's" Hybrid

Among the Infiniti M’s many other claims to fame are the world-first Blind Spot Intervention (BSI), state-of-the-art Forest Air climate control and Active Noise Control, while comfort and luxury are taken care of with double-piston dampers and the availability of semi-aniline leather in the spacious cabin.

Extensive details regarding these two innovations are available in the press release and Inifiniti said it will sell the M35h sports sedan on all of their 34 world markets. M35h sports sedan sales start in spring 2011, depending on market.

2011 Infiniti Cars IPL G Coupe With New Performance

Nissan's luxury division has unveiled the 2011 Infiniti IPL G Coupe, with new performance coupe, and for those that want to see the car in the flesh should attend the 60th edition Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The first production vehicle from this group, the 348-horsepower 2011 Infiniti Performance Line G Coupe. It joins the Infiniti line of performance luxury vehicles at Infiniti retailers nationwide in December. Infiniti is heading down the road already strafed by the likes of BMW's M division, Mercedes-Benz' AMG sub-brand, and Audi's S and RS offspring, with a new performance badge dubbed IPL.

The IPL G Coupe's enhanced performance comes from the synergetic effects of three technology areas – engine tuning, dynamic tuning and sound quality/acceleration feel tuning. Engine performance modifications were selected not only for increased horsepower and torque levels, but also for acceleration feel and exhaust sound without compromising fuel economy or noise standards.

The IPL G Coupe's advanced VQ37HR 3.7-liter V6 engine management system has been recalibrated through air-fuel mixture and ignition timing optimization, raising the maximum horsepower output point to 7,400 rpm (from 7,000 rpm). To obtain a natural acceleration feel, the torque curve from low revs to the maximum torque point (5,200 rpm) was tuned for linearity. As a result of both the exhaust system and engine management changes, the IPL G Coupe generates 348 horsepower – an increase of 18 horsepower over the non-IPL models – and 276 lb-ft of torque (+6 lb-ft).

For better handling and road grip the 2011 Infiniti IPL G Coupe also comes with a stiffer suspension, upgraded brakes with ventilated discs on all 4-wheels plus aluminum-alloy 4-piston brake calipers at the front and 2-piston opposed rear calipers.

"When you drive the IPL G Coupe, the first thing you notice is the surge in sound and acceleration feel. The inspiring swell of sound is in complete harmony with the acceleration feel as engine speed increases," said Poore. "The sound is clean and inspiring, adding to the fun-to-drive sensation provided by the 348 horsepower under the hood.

2011 Infiniti Cars IPL G Coupe With New Performance

The closest G to the IPL in today’s lineup is the G37 Sport, which comes similarly equipped to the new IPL G Coupe and starts at $41,275 with a manual transmission. The IPL has more standard features and the more powerful engine, which leads us to believe that it will wear a price tag just north of $46,000 when it goes on sale in December.

Infiniti G37 Convertible, 2009

The Infiniti G37 Convertible, like its coupe sister, is powered by the 3.7-litre VQ-series V6 with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event and Lift) rated at 320PS. The engine is backed by a choice of an electronically controlled seven-speed automatic transmission with magnesium paddle shifters or a responsive close-ratio six-speed manual transmission.

The G37 Convertible's inviting interior includes standard leather seats, an available Bose open air sound system that dynamically changes equalization based on outside noise, roof position and vehicle speed, an adaptive dual zone climate control system that adjusts fan speed in accordance to roof position and vehicle speed, and available climate-controlled seats that provide both heating and cooling functions. Uniquely, a rear parking camera is standard.

Seductive Styling Inside and Out
The Infiniti G37 Convertible maintains a coupé-like silhouette with the top up through use of a special three-piece "clamshell" retractable hardtop, which allows for use of a shorter rear overhang and low boot lid. Compared to G Coupé, the Infiniti G37 Convertible utilizes all-new body panels from the A-pillar back, along with a 28mm wider overall width, broader rear track and modified rear suspension.

The automatic top opening/closing sequence takes approximately 30 seconds from start to finish. The open/close switch is located on centre console, just behind the gearshift lever.

With its G Coupé-like proportions, the Infiniti G37 Convertible offers signature Infiniti styling cues such as flowing front curves, a wave-style aluminium bonnet, expressive front face with double-arch grille and L-shaped High-Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon headlights with integrated fog lamps. At the rear, the taillights are unique to the Infiniti G37 Convertible, incorporating an inner "circle of light" for added distinction at night. The chrome rear boot-lid finisher incorporates both an integrated high-mount brake-light and the small camera for the standard parking monitor system.

Infiniti's advanced "self-healing" Scratch Shield paint is standard with two Infiniti G37 Convertible-exclusive colours, Midnight Garnet and Pacific Sky.

The interior design combines sophistication, craftsmanship and thoughtfulness with unique, available systems created to enhance the open-air driving experience. The driver-oriented cockpit features an Infiniti signature "double wave" instrument panel design with Infiniti electroluminescent instrumentation with white-and-violet illumination, integrated multi-function information drive computer display and analogue Infiniti clock. The double hand-stitched leather-covered steering wheel is designed for maximum comfort and usability, with standard wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls. Genuine magnesium paddle shifters are standard for the 7-speed automatic transmission.

Special "Silk Obi" aluminium interior trim, inspired by fine Japanese silk, is located across the instrument panel, on the centre console and on the door panels in a shape redolent of Japanese spears. Also available are two choices of genuine wood trim. Leather-upholstered seating is standard and is offered in three colours shared with the Coupé - Graphite (black), Wheat and Stone - and a fourth that will be unique to the Convertible.

Heated 8-way power driver/8-way front passenger seats are standard, with climate-controlled seats (with heating and cooling functions) available as an option. A power walk-in device with position memory provides easy access to the 2nd row seats (the front seats move forward automatically at the touch of a button to allow passengers into the rear seats). A rear wind deflector helps reduce wind turbulence when the top is down.

The Infiniti G37 Convertible's long list of comfort and convenience features includes standard Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition and an Adaptive Dual Zone Climate Control System includes an advanced air conditioning system that adjusts to provide optimal comfort with the top up or down.

2 audio systems are available, starting with a standard 6-speaker AM/FM/6CD system with MP3 playback capability, Radio Data System (RDS) and centre console-mounted auxiliary input plus 7-inch color display. The second option is a 13-speaker Infiniti Bose open air sound system that automatically optimizes EQ settings for open/closed top positions. The system's special Bose Personal Headrest Speakers, mounted in the front seat headrests, enable superior front audio quality regardless of the top position.

Liberating Dynamic Performance
Like the G Coupé and G37 Sedan, the new Infiniti G37 Convertible's outstanding dynamic performance credentials start with a combination of its advanced FM platform and award-winning V6 engine. Every Infiniti G37 Convertible comes equipped with a standard 3.7-litre V6 engine with VVEL (for Variable Valve Event and Lift), rated at 320PS.

The VVEL system combines hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side, helping to improve not only performance and response but also emissions and fuel efficiency (over a non-VVEL system). It also provides cleaner emissions by allowing for quicker warm-up of the catalyst and by stabilizing combustion when the engine is cool.

The Infiniti G37 Convertible is available with a choice of an electronically controlled 7-speed automatic transmission with manual mode, downshift rev matching, Drive Sport (DS) mode and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) that allows for quicker shifts in sporty driving situations and magnesium paddle shifters; or a responsive, lightweight close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission.

The G37 Convertible's responsive handling and ride performance is provided by its advanced FM (Front Mid-ship) platform design, which optimizes front/rear weight balance and creates a rigid, stable foundation for the 4-wheel independent suspension. The front suspension is a double-wishbone design, with a single pivot lower wishbone and a long upper link. The multi-link rear suspension separates the shock absorbers and springs, locating the shock absorber inline with the wheel center. These designs help minimise alignment changes and reduce suspension friction for nimble handling and smooth riding characteristics.

Responsive steering is provided by a vehicle-speed-sensing system. Also standard on the Infiniti G37 Convertible is Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with cancel switch and Traction Control System (TCS).

Braking performance is provided by standard 4-wheel vented discs with 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The Infiniti G37 Convertible will also be available with larger ventilated rotors (14.0-inch front/13.8-inch rear) and aluminum four-piston calipers front/two-piston calipers rear, embossed with Infiniti lettering.

Infiniti's Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC) with Brake Assist, which helps in maintaining a consistent following distance from the car ahead, will be optional. It also identifies sudden braking situations with laser sensors to determine distance and relative speed of the car ahead in the same lane and "pre-pressurizes" the Brake Assist system before the driver steps on the brake pedal.

Split 5-spoke 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with P225/50VR18 front and P245/45R18 rear tyres are standard on the Infiniti G37 Convertible, while special 19-inch cast aluminum-alloy wheels with high performance tires (P225/45WR19 front and P245/40WR19 rear) will be optional.

Infiniti G37 Convertible, 2009

Infiniti FX50, 2009

In keeping with Infiniti's well defined product strategy, the new FX is inviting in every dimension, from the nimble feel of its quick and controlled response to driver input, to the ride comfort provided by its Dual Flow Pass shock absorbers and quick response to body motion inputs, to the unique "Infiniti feel" under acceleration and braking.

Infiniti's designers and engineers' overall goal in the development of the second-generation FX crossover was to enhance its "sports car ability" while adding refinement - without compromising either side of the equation. The new FX's creators also wanted to give the vehicle a more "human" feel, despite its mechanical strengths, by integrating the latest technology with owners' lifestyles.

The new Infiniti FX50 is designed to be highly adaptive to both the driver and driving conditions, utilizing a long list of Infiniti technologies and systems, including Variable Valve Event & Lift (V-VEL) engine technology, Adaptive Shift Control, Suspension with active Continuous Damping Control (CDC), Rear Active Steering, Around View Monitor, Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range) and Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA).

INFINITI FX EXTERIOR
The new Infiniti FX continues with the breathtaking exterior styling and "sports car proportions" that helped the original stand out from all other performance luxury crossovers on the market. The FX blends the substantial lower body of an SUV with the long hood, stretched wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs, low overall height and elegant upper body more commonly found on sports cars - conveying its strong performance personality and breakthrough design architecture at a single glance.

The FX's design starts with a new front end appearance, led by a lustrous Infiniti signature double-arch front grille, standard fog lamps and Bi-Xenon headlights. The Infiniti FX50 also includes an automatic-on feature that switches on the headlights automatically on at dusk and a standard Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS). This system automatically controls the lighting pattern and directional aim, based on steering wheel angle and vehicle speed (the headlights can swivel headlights up to 17 degrees).

The FX's new flat blade windshield wipers and wiper arm design optimize aerodynamic performance - helping improve wiping performance at high speeds and reducing wind noise at high speed. A new rain-sensing feature automatically tunes the wiper pace and speed according to the frequency of the precipitation (as detected by sensors).

The new side air vents are also functional, allowing air to flow from inside the engine compartment to outside the vehicle, reducing high under-hood air pressure. The side vents reduce front end lift by five percent for improved high speed stability.

The Infiniti FX's aggressive silhouette is highlighted by a strong front-to-rear shoulder line, "taut canopy" greenhouse with chromed window frames, rearward-sloping roofline, integrated rear spoiler and polished roof rails. In the rear, the FX's simple, bold appearance features LED taillights that extend beyond the body to help create aerodynamic down force and large dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers.

The FX's coefficient of drag has been improved to 0.35 from 0.37, with the engineers finessing even the smallest details to help manage airflow, including the front bumper sides, rear spoiler angle and taillight shape.

Under the FX's polished, assertive styling is an equally advanced body structure. FX utilizes the rigid FM (Front Midship) platform architecture used on the Infiniti G 37, G37 Coupe. The FM platform offers sports car-like front-to-rear weight balance - 54/46 - for exceptional handling.

The new FX utilizes Infiniti's advanced "Scratch Shield" paint, a special "self-healing" clearcoat paint designed to maintain its gloss-level over time. The paint "repairs" fine scratches, such as fingernail scratches under door handles, restoring the FX's surface close to its original state. The Infiniti FX50 is offered in seven exterior colors.

INFINITI FX INTERIOR
The Infiniti FX's sporty interior is designed to combine a driver-oriented cockpit/command center with a warm, modern, comfortable passenger environment - all wrapped in rich, natural materials. The high-tech interior design includes an Infiniti signature "double-wave" instrument panel and white-and-violet electroluminescent gauges.

The Infiniti FX50 comes with a new front sport seat design with an adjustable air-type side support system for added lateral support during "sporty" driving sessions. The driver's seat features 10-way power-adjustability with lumbar support and a 2-position Driver's Seat Memory system, while the passenger's seat is an 8-way power-adjustable design. Covered in a special quilted leather sew pattern, the front sport seats include adjustable thigh extensions, which add an extra level of comfort for drivers and passengers with long legs or for long distance travel. Whereas the front seats include an enhanced climate controlled system with heating and cooling functions for maximum comfort.

Standard on the Infiniti FX50 is a new Automatic Driving Position System, which moves the seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors adaptively into the correct position. This system allows the driver to change the seat position while driving and keep the same viewpoint and relationship between the steering column and driver's shoulder position.

The FX interior offers white-and-violet "Fine Vision" electroluminescent gauges with "gear-like" rings on the instrument cluster meters, standard 8.0-inch multi-information display monitor and signature Infiniti analog clock. The center console/shifter area is available in a black quartz finisher or special Curly Maple wood trim, inspired by classical violins, giving a sense of warmth throughout.

INFINITI FX50 DRIVETRAIN
The Infiniti FX50 features a new powerplant, which makes it debut on this model - an advanced 5.0-liter V8 that is mounted low in the chassis to help lower the Infiniti FX50's center of gravity. The engine design includes twin symmetrical air intakes, microfinished crankshaft, lightweight pistons, super-silent cam drive chains and an electrically driven cooling fan to help optimize performance.

The goals for the development of the Infiniti FX50's all-new VK50VE V8 started with outstanding power output - 390 horsepower (287kw) and 500 Nm of torque - a high rev limit, a powerful engine sound from a specially tuned exhaust and improved fuel economy versus the previous generation FX45. Even small details were evaluated in designing the new engine, including control of oil mist density in crankcase for reduced friction

One of the keys to the new V8's impressive performance is the adoption of Infiniti's patented Variable Valve Event & Lift (VVEL) valve control technology, which was first introduced on the Infiniti G37 Coupe. The VVEL system continuously adjusts valve event and lift amounts, enabling higher fuel efficiency with higher torque and improved emissions over conventional variable valve designs. The VVEL intake camshafts, which feature continuously variable lift control teamed with a Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control system (CVTC), allow for a 6,900 rpm redline and a high compression ratio of 10.9:1.

The Infiniti FX50 is comes standard with a new seven-speed automatic gear box with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) allowing a downshift blip control. FX50's standard magnesium paddle shifters enable drivers to shift the transmission without releasing their hands from the steering wheel, helping maintain stability for the driver when accelerating or decelerating on winding roads.

Infiniti's advanced ESP system with Traction Control System (TCS) is standard on all FX models. ESP adjusts brake pressure and engine torque automatically in understeer, oversteer or slippery road surface situations, helping the driver keep the intended path. A cancel switch allows the driver to switch off the ESP system when desired.

The Infiniti FX50 is equipped with Infiniti's intelligent four-wheel drive system called ATTESA E-TS? (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split), which uses an advanced torque split control strategy that automatically transfers optimum torque to the wheels according to road and driving conditions. The system provides outstanding handling due to optimum torque distribution from front to rear (50:50 up to 0:100). ATTESA E-TS? also provides high starting traction performance and smooth, stable acceleration, especially in snow-covered or off-road situations with a 50:50 torque split at standing start.

When the Infiniti FX50 accelerates from a standing stop, the ATTESA E-TS? system provides power to all four wheels. Once up to speed, if the system's sensors detect that all-wheel drive is not needed, up to 100 percent of the power is sent to the rear wheels. This rear-bias offers better handling balance and improved fuel efficiency. The system can then divert power forward at any time as traction/road conditions dictate, helping ensure that power always goes where grip is the greatest.

The Infiniti FX50's dynamic handling is a result of its suspension using light weight and aluminium components in the front and rear to reduce unsprung weight (weight not supported by the springs), helping to improve both ride and handling.

The new double-wishbone front suspension design, similar to that utilized on the Infiniti G37 and G37 Coupé, replaces the previous generation FX's front strut-type suspension. The suspension's upper and lower A-arms help provide superior control of a wheel's motion, especially when the suspension compresses and extends, providing more travel than the previous strut design. The net result is a better ride and improved handling.

The Infiniti FX50's rear suspension utilizes the multi-link design from the previous generation, refined to weigh less and provide more wheel travel - again for improved ride and handling. A lightweight, high-strength steel rear subframe is utilized to isolate the FX's body and its passengers from road noise and vibrations. Its compact design benefits to room in the rear passenger and cargo area. Large diameter stabilizer bars are utilized front and rear.

The suspension system also incorporates special "dual flow pass" shock absorber technology with rebound springs for responsive yet comfortable ride and firm, tight handling.

The new Infiniti FX50 includes standard active Continuous Damping Control (CDC) system with special electronically controlled shock absorbers. Unlike conventional fixed damping force shock absorbers, the suspension with active Continuous Damping Control (CDC) takes the input from a variety of sensors and continuously alters the damping of the shocks to provide optimal ride and handling. The system features a driver-selectable switch with two settings, "Auto" and "Sport," allowing the driver to control the shock valving levels.

The Infiniti FX50's standard Rear Active Steer system is the first of its kind available in an SUV. Unlike passive rear steering systems, this design features precise, electronic motor-driven control to turn the rear wheels up to one degree, helping generate a nimble steering response at low speeds and enhance stability at high speeds. Rear Active Steer moves the Infiniti FX50's rear wheels in accordance with the front-wheel steering angle and vehicle speed, rather than passively following the front wheels. The result is a vehicle that is able to change direction with improved quickness, precision and stability.

The new FX maintains its small turning radius (5.6m) despite its larger wheel and tire package. Its engineers focused on improving steering feedback from the advanced speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion power steering system and reduced "play" in the steering mechanism for more direct vehicle response to steering input.

Secure braking performance is provided by the Infiniti FX50's 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD). The Infiniti FX50 system features 4-piston front/2-piston rear calipers, similar to those utilized on the new Infiniti G37 Coupé, and large brake rotors (355x22 mm front/350x20 mm rear). Braking system dimensions and high thermal capacity have been tailored specifically to European driving needs, providing a secure and stable feeling at very high speeds and high deceleration rates.

The Infiniti FX50 features metallic-finish six-spoke cast-alloy 9.5Jx21-inch wheels made by Enkei. These wheels are created using a special type of ultra-lightweight casting and are as light as a competitor's 18-inch wheels. They are mounted with 265/45R21 performance tires.

INFINITI FX50 TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY SYSTEMS
The new Infiniti FX50 offers a wide range of advanced available technology and safety systems, helping reinforce the strong sense of communication between the Infiniti FX50 and its driver - as well as providing a secure and inviting feel.

The Infiniti FX50 comes standard with the unique Infiniti Around View Monitor utilizes four small superwide-angle cameras - mounted on the front, side and rear of the Infiniti FX50 - to project an all-around view of potential objects on every side of the vehicle, helping reduce blind spots when parking. The system uses advanced image processing to provide a unique "Birds-Eye View" of the vehicle, making it easy for the driver to position the Infiniti FX50 for parallel parking by simultaneously confirming the exact placement of the front and rear of the vehicle. The system includes front and rear sonar sensors for camera assistance, also displayed in an easily understandable fashion on the display.

The Infiniti FX50's standard Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed range) system combines the brakes, throttle and laser rangefinder with the cruise control system to automatically maintain a set distance between the Infiniti FX50 and a vehicle in front of it. FX50's Intelligent Cruise Control operates in "Full Speed Range" (from 0km/h) hence reducing the driver's workload in congested traffic as well as smooth long distance travel. The Intelligent Cruise Control assists the driver with acceleration and deceleration actions and stops the Infiniti FX50 if traffic requires.

Standard on the Infiniti FX50's, Intelligent Brake Assist (IBA) system uses the laser rangefinder from the Intelligent Cruise Control's (ICC) system and analyzes closing speeds to a vehicle ahead to help prevent or reduce damage caused by a rear-end collision. If a forward collision is imminent with the vehicle in front of the Infiniti FX50 and the driver must take immediate avoidance action, the system sounds a warning to prompt driver action. When a rear-end collision cannot be avoided by the driver's action, the system activates the brakes to decelerate the vehicle, thereby helping to reduce damage resulting from the collision. IBA can apply up to 0.5g braking force (1.0g is considered close to the maximum possible braking force).

The FX's enhanced FM platform Zone Body Construction is designed to help protect occupants in a collision by helping to absorb crash energy through use of front and rear crushable zones. In a high-speed frontal collision, for example, the crushable zone crumples while the engine is designed to move under the occupant compartment. This has the effect of expanding the crushable zone, thereby helping to reduce deceleration g-force and simultaneously helping minimize cabin deformation, especially in the lower leg area. In offset impacts, the body construction helps decrease the amount of cabin deformation. Special high-resistance steel is used for light weight and improved strength.

As with all Infiniti vehicles, significant time was spent to ensure excellent passenger safety. The first-generation FX received 5 Stars for all measures in the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) testing, and the new second-generation FX is expected to offer similar or better occupant protection.

Other standard safety features found on the Infiniti FX50 include a seat belt reminder system; airbags for driver and front passenger with front hip-thorax side airbags and front-to-rear curtain airbag for rear passengers. Also standard are 3-point front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, front seat Active Head Restraints.

The Infiniti FX50 also features a breakaway brake pedal and double-wall bulkhead construction to help reduce lower leg injuries and a breakaway construction of the propeller shaft (connected with the engine-drop function).

The Infiniti FX50's standard Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) uses pressure sensors with transmitters mounted inside each wheel, which transmit data by radio wave to a control module, sending tire pressure information to a center display indicator on the Infiniti FX50's information panel. A warning lamp and display indicates when a low tire pressure condition (less than 75 percent of normal pressure) is detected.