It began as an idea, a sketch – imagining if the forbearers of INFINITI had built an e-roadster in the 1940s. Inspired by the Prince Motor brand, as well as roadsters and aircraft of the era, the sketches were stunning. So stunning, in fact, we felt compelled to bring them to fruition.
INFINITI Senior Vice President of Global Design, Alfonso Albaisa reflects on how his first time behind the wheel of the Prototype 9 brings the initial dreams and design expectations of this one-foot-in-the-past concept car into reality.
As more colleagues learned about the project, Nissan employees volunteered hundreds of hours of their own time to develop and build the prototype.
Masters, or “Takumi,” at Nissan rediscovered the art of molding and bending metal to make a prototype. And the car’s heritage-inspired body was handcrafted at the Nissan Oppama Plant in Japan.
The car is inspired by 1940s-era automotive designs, including those of Prince Motor, of which INFINITI can trace its origins.
The car’s welding, trim and chassis were built by master production engineers.
The car is fully electric, powered by a prototype electric motor and battery from the Advanced Powertrain Department.
Prototype 9 will be revealed at Pebble Beach, California, in August.
Alfonso Albaisa, Senior Vice President, Global Design
Although INFINITI is only 30 years old, we come from along history of performance pedigree through the Prince Motor Company, which merged with Nissan in 1966. Today, that racing spirit is found in every vehicle we build.
It always begins with a sketch. Then from chassis to powertrain, our designers use meticulous craftsmanship to create each and every INFINITI vehicle.
We strive to blend artistry and craftsmanship with the most advanced technology we can. But it’s only ever designed to enhance your driving experience in its purest form.
