Here at 3Birds Template, we’re repeatedly impressed by INFINITI's commitment to innovation. In September, the automaker upped the ante again with the announcement of a standalone all-electric model. A concept of the new model is expected to debut in January 2018 at the Detroit motor show and production models are expected to hit showrooms by 2019.

What do we know?

Alfonsa Albaisa, the senior president of global design at INFINITI, made the announcement while talking at a Monterey Car Week event, where the brand is showing off its vintage-inspired electric concept, the Prototype 9.

Albaisa confirmed the new all-electric model will not be a derivative of an existing model, but rather an all-new vehicle. It will be built on an entirely new platform. But the brand isn't overly eager to push the electric performance model to production. INFINITI is taking measures to maintain its values of performance and handling with the new model, which is sure to offer a unique driving experience. 

A promising indication

INFINITI President Rolan Krueger has driven an early prototype of the 2019 model and he describes it as “very good.” And that’s not surprising. Referring to parent company Nissan’s expertise, Krueger has said that INFINITI has lots of engineering competencies it can tap into and utilize. Judging by the specs of the recently unveiled Prototype 9, 3Birds Template couldn’t agree more.

The Prototype 9 is a recent electric concept that pays homage to the bygone era of 1930s and ‘40s German and Italian racing. Its long, slender body is outfitted with a few of INFINITI's modern design elements, but aside from that, it possesses an entirely vintage feel. Until you look under the hood, of course.

Prototype 9 performance

Inside the vintage shell of the Prototype 9 lies an electric powertrain capable of delivering 148 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. It uses a 30 kWh battery to power the wheels through a single-speed transmission, and though just a concept, it’s performance specs bode well for the upcoming model.

The Prototype 9 reaches a top speed of 106 mph and has a 0-to-60 time of 5.5 seconds. It should also be able to last 20 minutes on the racetrack when it’s fully charged. Yes, it’s just a concept and will likely never see production, but the EV technology in the Prototype 9 is destined to hit dealerships in 2019 with the release of INFINITI's standalone electric model.

Although we may have some time to wait to see the fruits of INFINITI's investments, the automaker’s current lineup offers a healthy dose of luxury, performance, and handling. To experience it for yourself, call, contact us online, or visit us at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516 in person today for a test drive. 

Image Credit: INFINITI (INFINITI Prototype 9 pictured)