You are on page 1of 4

!

Inniti LE Concept A Vision of Zero Emission Luxury Revealed at New York International Auto Show The Inniti LE Concept, which makes its world debut at the 2012 New York International Auto Show, is more than just the latest in the series of dramatically styled, technologically advanced concepts from Inniti. Though sharing much with the stunning futuristic Inniti concepts that have come before a sweeping aerodynamic body, an elegantly intelligent interior, inspired driving performance and advanced next-generation technology the Inniti LE Concept is more grounded in reality. A production version is expected to reach Inniti showrooms in near-similar form within the next two years as Inniti's rst zero emission luxury sedan. Among the key features and innovations of the Inniti LE Concept are: Luxury sedan style, combining signature Inniti design cues with EV aerodynamic efciency Exceptional acceleration and re-acceleration, providing a new level of luxury driving experience Leading-edge compact Lithium-ion battery technology Smart hospitality, featuring a quiet, luxurious Inniti interior and next-gen Inniti Connection, Inniti Personal Assistant and EV connected services Innovative, intuitive home-based Wireless Charging System with Intelligent Park Assist First and Foremost an Inniti From inception, the LE Concept has been designed as a pure Inniti, rather than as an electric vehicle with luxury appointments. The vehicle is also substantial in form about the same overall length as an Inniti G Sedan supporting Inniti's belief that zero emission does not have to mean small. The Inniti LE Concept does not compromise either roominess or comfort, which is why it starts with an advanced luxury-styled sedan body, not a converted hatchback. "The LE Concept's bold exterior is dened by its underlying high performance. It is rst and foremost an Inniti, born of our philosophy of Inspired Performance. Rather than taking an EV and adding an Inniti badge, we are taking an Inniti and removing the tailpipe," explained Poore. "Inniti is all about challenging convention, which this vehicle does proving that luxury at the next level can be both gorgeous and zero emission." The LE Concept's dramatic exterior blends distinctive Inniti design cues, such as its double-arch grille and crescent-cut rear-pillar, with EV aerodynamic efciency to create a sleek, emotional silhouette. The strong shoulder line, which directs the eye from front to rear, expresses a dynamic, elegant owing movement. The beautifully balanced proportions represent an efcient dynamic form as a new denition of luxury. A number of design features contribute to the coefcient of drag of 0.25, which aids driving range, including the aluminum-alloy wheels with aero treatment, the high rear deck, rear aero diffuser and aero side n spoilers with integrated illumination. The large

front grille features a solid nisher and a charge port hidden under the illuminated center Inniti emblem. The deep-skirted front fascia includes an aero n spoiler with illumination. The iconic Inniti LED headlights and taillights echo the design direction of Inniti's recent Inniti Essence and EMERG-E concepts. Special illumination located under the rear diffuser illustrates the positioning of the wireless charger. The already dramatic exterior is accentuated by blue LED lighting that ows around the lower panels. Distinctive Inniti EV Blue paint is adopted to enhance the sense of Inniti EV-ness on the door handles and wheels. "The LE Concept exterior is shaped to maximize its aerodynamic efciency, yet it doesn't scream 'electric vehicle.' The design priorities are on visibility, hospitality and utility and, of course, Inniti-ness," said Poore. "The same can be said of the interior, which takes advantage of the low-noise drivetrain to provide the tranquil quietness of a living room, though one that offers far more exhilaration and mobility." The Inniti LE Concept's efcient EV platform maximizes interior space by placing the batteries under the passenger compartment oor. This positioning helps provide a low vehicle center of gravity for enhanced handling and maximizes trunk room, without compromising front or rear seat passenger legroom or comfort. Beyond its advanced packaging, the real beauty of the interior design is its "smart hospitality" combining a luxurious Inniti environment with next-generation instrumentation, driver interface and connectivity. The LE Concept interior is anchored by its Inniti signature double-wave layout, which ows seamlessly from instrument panel to the center console and down the cabin sides embracing driver and passengers in a generous, energetic space. The double-wave design is highlighted by special soft LED Inniti EV Blue lighting that ows in two waves from front to back, while the center console forms a strong anchor line that penetrates the interior space. The center console nisher adds a touch of EV-ness though use of a "Hamon" (ripple) design. A sculpted shift knob comfortably controls the LE Concept's drive system. Inniti-EV meters combine modern digital display and timeless analog gauges, creating an atmosphere of both exclusivity and futuristic design. The center cluster features an innovative connected twin display powered by an Intel Atom processor. The twin display will offer Inniti LE drivers access to the kinds of information that EV drivers will appreciate such as a dynamic range calculator that will use onboard and cloud based data. As the public charging station network expands, the on-board database will be kept current. And on compatible charger networks, the driver will be able to conrm real time charger availability. The elegant, bolstered seat and door trim design also comes from traditional roots, inspired by the "Eriashi" (collar) of a Japanese kimono. The seats are covered in a suede-and-mesh fabric with violet accents, and semi-aniline leather sides. The unique

interior color combination of blush violet for upper portions and light white for lower also reinforces the vehicle's Inniti EV-ness. "Today's luxury EV intenders expect their EV to be a luxury vehicle rst, with advanced technology, cutting-edge design and premium appointments," said Poore. "The Inniti LE Concept delivers in every dimension, welcoming driver and passenger as guests, much as you'd expect in the owners' homes." An Engaging Driving Experience As a fusion of hospitality and Inspired Performance, the Inniti LE Concept is designed to stimulate, not sedate. Targeting "impressive EV acceleration without sacricing the range," the engineering team behind the LE Concept's e-powertrain sought a silent, smooth response for both accelerating from a start and re-accelerating, such as merging onto freeways or changing lanes. Torque of 240 lb-ft is instantly available immediately at all times. The Inniti LE Concept's battery system is a proven laminated 24 kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) design with a ChaDeMo DC50kW quick charger. "A luxury car for a new generation of sustainable luxury buyers must not compromise on performance. Buyers want 'green,' but won't settle for any aspect of the driving experience being less than that of their current luxury vehicles," explained Poore. "For those who have never driven a modern EV, the immediate full-torque response when you step on the accelerator is amazing. It empowers you, without overpowering you though the temptation is always there to leave drivers in the next lane behind." A smooth, comfortable ride is provided by the e-platform's high body stiffness (with rigidmounted battery frame), front independent strut/rear torsion beam suspension with double-piston shock absorbers. Handling is enhanced by the low noise, vibration and harshness e-powertrain, along with the low center of gravity and concentration of vehicle weight in the center of the vehicle Customizable Connected System, Home Wireless Charging The Inniti LE Concept's connectivity to the outside world includes the next generation of Inniti Connection features, such as Inniti Personal Assistant 24-hour concierge service, navigation, and POI search. The IT system, which includes a large twin display, is easy to operate. The twin display offers drivers all of the information they want, displayed in the right place. The system can also be used to pre-heat or pre-cool the vehicle at pre-set times, synchronize with web calendars and search for local charging stations. The system will be capable of reserving charging stations at public venues such as malls or ballparks (once the appropriate infrastructure is in place). "These advanced connectivity features and services will help mitigate range and charging concerns among new sustainable luxury buyers," said Poore. "Along with no trade-offs for luxury performance or hospitality, we believe that sustainable luxury should be intuitive, not intrusive."

In terms of charging, the Inniti LE Concept is equipped to utilize an integrated charging port, a DC Fast Charge option and an advanced Wireless Charging System. "In keeping with the Inniti challenger mentality, the LE Concept includes a built-in Wireless Charging System, which we expect to be the rst home-based wireless charging system if adapted for the production version," said Poore. "All you have to do is park your vehicle over the charging pad with no need to connect cables." The system's non-contact charging is via inductive energy ow, with a coil safely encased on the garage oor. The primary coil is connected to the energy source, which then creates a magnetic eld that excites electric current in a second coil in the LE Concept. The high-frequency charging, controlled by the twin display or smartphone, is safe for children and pets and can be installed easily in a home garage. In addition, taking inspired technology a step beyond, the Inniti LE Concept features an Intelligent Park Assist with Around View Monitor to easily align the vehicle in the proper position over the wireless charging coil. The system uses e-steering, with full forward and backward capability, along with a 360-degree view of the surrounding area. It also bookmarks the parking place in GPS so that once the vehicle enters the garage, for example, the navigation system will automatically switch to Around View Monitor and the system is ready to park the car. "With the Wireless Charging and Intelligent Park Assist, there are no cables, no maintenance and no concern about the perfect alignment of vehicle and charger," said Poore. "So, on top of no longer having to pump gas, you will no longer have to connect charging cables." Becoming a Reality "For those who wonder how a zero emission vehicle like the Inniti LE Concept will t into their lifestyles, the answer is simple: perfectly. With a range of current and future stainable vehicles faithful to the Inniti promise of Inspired Performance, Inniti is well positioned for the growing demand for clean, efcient and exciting vehicles," concluded Ghosn. "In a rapidly changing world, Inniti is well ahead of the game."

You might also like