Infiniti reveals hybrid M saloon
08.10.2009 - Andy Goodwin
(8)
Britain's newest car brand - Infiniti - has just announced it will be building its first hybrid model as part of its new M range of saloons.
Infiniti has just launched in the UK and currently sells a BMW 3 Series-rivalling G37 saloon, coupe and convertible as well as an Audi Q5-sized EX37 coupe and its big FX37 and FX50 SUVs.
The first M saloons will feature conventional engines, including a V6 diesel, and go on sale in 2010.
The M35 Hybrid saloon will be on sale in Spring 2011, fitted with a 3.5-litre V6, battery pack and electric motor.
New lithium-ion batteries will be fitted which weigh the same as conventional batteries, but produce twice as much power.
During hard acceleration the electric motor will boost power to the driven rear wheels. When slowing down and under braking the motor will act as a generator to charge the batteries.
In certain driving conditions, when the battery is in a good state of charge, the M35 Hybrid will be able to run on electric power alone.
