60 Infiniti Q2020 Project Black S: BMW M4 rival coupe could go into production

Thanks to the electricity generated during acceleration and braking, the Infiniti Q60 Project Black S produces 418 kW of power.

Infiniti is close to starting production of the Q60 Project Black S as final testing with F1 driver Nico Hulkenberg took place over the weekend.

The flagship Q60 coupe should compete with the likes of the BMW M4, Mercedes-AMG C63 S coupe and Audi RS5 with its dual hybrid powertrain based on F1 technology.

With the standard 298kW 3.0L VR30 V6 twin-turbocharged engine from the Q60 Red Sport, Project Black S adds two heat harvesting systems that can generate electrical power when accelerating, while a brake kinetic energy recovery unit can also produce power. when slowing down. .

As a result, the flagship Q60 will produce 418kW of power, well above BMW and Audi's 331kW and Mercedes' 375kW.

Infiniti has also outfitted the Q60 Concept with heavy duty brakes, a tuned suspension and an eye-catching body kit to signal its sporty intent.

The final hurdle for Infiniti to overcome is testing whether there is enough interest in such a model to justify production, but expect an announcement later this year, possibly at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

First unveiled at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, the Project Black S has since undergone a makeover in its consecutive appearance at the 2018 Paris Motor Show, with a decision to be made on whether the show car enters production before the end of the year.

Infiniti Vice Chairman Mike Colleran said the Q60 flagship embodies the brand's electric future, combining performance with efficiency.

“Work on the Black S project represents a milestone in Infiniti's path to electrification,” he said.

“This test bed for new ideas and rapid development represents everything Infiniti hopes to achieve with its electrified vehicles in the future, such as intelligent energy management with advanced high-performance powertrains, exciting driving and performance aesthetics.”