Infiniti Project Black S prototype revealed ahead of Paris debut

Infiniti is set to give a glimpse into its electrified car future next week with this – the Project Black S prototype.

The Project Black S uses a conventional 3.0-litre V6 engine alongside an energy recovery system similar to that used in Formula One race cars. The system gives the engine more power and torque, with the resulting total output coming to 563bhp over the V6’s standard 400bhp.

Infiniti claims that as a result of this power, the Project Black S will crack the sprint from 0-60mph in ‘under four seconds’.

Roland Krueger, chairman and global president at Infiniti, said: “The Project Black S represents the very top end of electrification in the Alliance portfolio, and is another example of Infiniti’s entrepreneurial spirit on its journey to electrification from 2021 onward.

“Project Black S utilises high power and smart energy management from advanced powertrains, a thrilling dynamic capability on road and track, and a performance-oriented aesthetic. A collaborative venture between Infiniti and the Renault Sport Formula One Team, the Project Black S prototype is a testbed for new ideas and technologies.”

The Project Black S is based on the Q60 Red Sport 400 sports coupe. However, the hybrid system separates the pair. The Project Black S uses a powertrain with three motor generator units, with a single unit capable of harvesting energy from braking.

In addition, the twin electric turbochargers fitted to the engine feature heat-harvesting units, enabling them to take energy from exhaust gases. This then allows the entire powertrain to generate electric power when braking and accelerating.

The Project Black S is due to be revealed in Paris on October 1.