We already know Infiniti is planning on launching its own Leaf-based premium EV, which they previewed with the LE concept shown at the 2012 New York motor show. Now Autocar is sharing additional details on the model, after having talked with company boss Andy Palmer.
They say that its future “hinges on a standard process of induction charging being introduced around the world,” and it is explained that having cumbersome cables and plugs to fiddle around with contradicts the company’s idea of being premium – so they’re either making it wirelessly-chargeable or not at all…
Palmer explains: “The whole concept of not having to couple up cables to a plug socket, dragging them on the ground and on you as you go, is in keeping with luxury motoring,” adding that this is “technology we want to shine a light on, so while there is no world standard on methods, the roll-out will be dependent on region.”
Wireless charging done through induction is already being tested around the world, so that it works on anything from an all-electric quad bike to a fully-fledged city bus. Also, it’s good that Infiniti doesn’t want to compromise on the vision behind the car to get it to the market – if they do manage to make it the way they want it, it could be a special EV.
By Andrei Nedelea
