Infiniti's Project Black S Prototype packs F1 dual-hybrid electric powertrain technology

As part of its plan to electrify its portfolio from 2021 onwards, Infiniti is to reveal a new Project Black S prototype in Paris, showcasing how Formula One dual-hybrid electric powertrain technology can be deployed in a road car.

Following the 2017 Infiniti Project Black S design study, the new hybrid electric prototype illustrates the carmaker's commitment to developing exciting high-performance electrified powertrains, drawing on expertise from across the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance.

The Project Black S fuses high-performance dual-hybrid technology with Infiniti's award-winning VR30 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine. Its unique ‘energy recovery system’ (ERS) contributes to greater power and torque than the engine upon which it is based. The dual-hybrid powertrain prototype generates 420 kW – equivalent to 563 hp or 571 ps, whereas the conventional VR30 engine produces 298 kW (400 hp / 405 ps). The power to weight ratio is estimated to be 235W/kg, achieving 0-100kph acceleration below four seconds.

Performance-oriented vehicle electrification
Engineered in collaboration between Infiniti and the Renault Sport Formula One Team, and under development specifically for road use, the Project Black S prototype features a world-first dual-hybrid powertrain technology and represents the latest development initiative by Infiniti to electrify its cars.

The prototype's powertrain employs three motor generator units (MGU). A single MGU-K ('K' stands for 'kinetic') unit harvests kinetic energy from braking. Uniquely, the engine's twin electric turbochargers are fitted with two MGU-H ('H' for 'heat') units, to harvest heat energy from exhaust gases. This enables the powertrain to generate electrical power under both braking and acceleration.

The ‘Black S’ designation represents the highest level of performance, dynamic capability, effective aerodynamics and intelligent energy management offered by Infiniti. The prototype is based on the Q60 red S sports coupe and has been developed together with the Renault Sport Formula One Team.

Roland Krueger, chairman and global president at Infiniti, said: "Infiniti has reached another milestone on its road to electrification. Building on the strength and success of the electric vehicle expertise of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance, Infiniti is showing the Project Black S, a high-performance prototype with F1 technology resulting from collaboration within the Alliance.

"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 test-bed for new ideas and technologies, demonstrating how our Alliance partnerships could make our ambitious visions a reality," Krueger added.