Not too long ago, Infiniti made it known that it would be debuting a Formula One-inspired concept at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show (NAIAS).
I have to be straightforward, it was pretty obvious what the company was going to do after seeing what happened with the FX50 Vettel Edition. Spruce it up with a bit of carbon fiber, do some typical mods and see how it shakes out.
As of now Infiniti hasn't said what something like this would cost, if it is contemplating bringing this sort of technology to production or if this kind of car would be an addition to the IPL division, which has been pretty "dead" since the G37 Coupe.
We're hoping that those big brakes, racing seats and carbon fiber are indicators of a
real power boost, not that puny addition seen in the FX50 Vettel Edition.
Keep your browsers pointed to AutoSpies.com for the latest news about the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
Infiniti's press release follows:
Infiniti Reveals First Image of Q50 Eau Rouge Concept
-Q50 Eau Rouge represents design vision for high-performance products
-Design of Q50 Eau Rouge features dramatic aerodynamic styling influenced by Infiniti's involvement in Formula One
-Q50 Eau Rouge features complex carbon composite bodywork
Hong Kong - Infiniti has revealed the first image of the Q50 Eau Rouge concept which will have its world premiere at the 2014 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 13.
The Q50 Eau Rouge, a high-performance design concept based on Infiniti's Q50 premium sports sedan, draws inspiration for aerodynamic design from the technical collaboration between Infiniti and four-time Formula One World Champions Infiniti Red Bull Racing.
Major bodywork components have been redesigned with aerodynamics in mind and manufactured carbon fiber. Q50 Eau Rouge is lower and wider - only the roof and door profiles remain unchanged from the production Q50. This striking design is inspired by muscularity, refinement, and understated performance intent.
Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge highlights include deep and detailed carbon fiber front splitter, rear diffuser and side sill skirts; carbon fiber roof and door mirror casings; 21-inch lightweight forged alloy wheels; and a dual-exit exhaust sports system below a large integrated rear spoiler.
The Infiniti design team, led by Executive Design Director Alfonso Albaisa, was influenced by the aerodynamic styling approach taken by their colleagues at Infiniti Red Bull Racing.
"From our shared passion for performance with Infiniti Red Bull Racing grew a collective desire to produce a vision of what a high-performance Infiniti Q50 could look like," said Albaisa.
"The design has a number of distinctive Formula One inspired touches. In particular, the sculpted front wing assembly and the rear aerodynamic packaging take their cues from the RB9 race car," added Albaisa.
Infiniti is also empowering social fans to unveil the all-new Q50 Eau Rouge concept car ahead of the official launch at the Detroit Motor Show on January 13. Starting from today, online advocates can drive the reveal of Infiniti's latest concept car. By sharing their views and comments through social media channels like Twitter (hashtag #F1Q50), Facebook and Weibo, fans will build the image of the concept in a virtual garage. Each "share" will help build individual Q50 components, and as more fans share, the quicker the car will be "built." Progress can be viewed on unveil.infiniti.com.
More information about the Q50 Eau Rouge will be revealed during a press conference at the North American International Auto Show at 9:20 a.m. ET on January 14.