Infiniti has never produced a concept car as striking or as intriguing as the Emerg-e, which debuted in 2012.
The mid-engine sports car made its world premiere in Geneva before crossing the Atlantic for a North American debut at Pebble Beach.
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Despite the buzz, the Emerg-e never reached production, and the project was shelved.
A Powertrain Ahead of Its Time
At its core was a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine sourced from Lotus, used solely as a generator to recharge the battery pack.
Two electric motors, each producing 201 hp, delivered a combined 402 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque.
Infiniti claimed a 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph.
The 15 kWh lithium-ion battery provided an all-electric range of over 30 miles, with a total range of 300 miles when the engine kicked in.
CO2 emissions were rated at just 55 g/km on the NEDC cycle.
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Design That Still Resonates
The Emerg-e's design, penned by Randy Rodriguez, beat proposals from Infiniti's studios in Japan and the UK.
Its flowing lines and mid-engine proportions made it a standout, and design cues later appeared on models like the Q60.
The interior was equally futuristic, featuring a digital gauge cluster and a floating central spine.
Even the ambient lighting changed from blue to purple as the driver pushed harder.
A Legacy Unfulfilled
Infiniti has since focused on SUVs and crossovers, leaving the Emerg-e as a reminder of a bolder era.
The range-extender layout, rare in 2012, is now gaining traction across the industry.
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Perhaps it's time for Infiniti to revisit the concept and bring it to life.
