The Lineup's Premier Driver's Hybrid

The new hybrid model added to the Infiniti M series can essentially be considered the same as the Nissan Fuga Hybrid. Touted as a "driver's hybrid" with the power of a V8 and the fuel economy of a four-cylinder, the M35h features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing a maximum output of 225kW (306ps) and an electric motor with a maximum output of 50kW (68ps). While final specifications are yet to be determined, Infiniti states the system will deliver 268kW (365ps) and achieve an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city (10.63 km/l) and 30 mpg on the highway (12.76 km/l) through a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Ben Poore, Vice President of Infiniti, proudly stated, "This is the only car available today that offers over 350 horsepower and achieves over 30 miles per gallon." Despite its power, it can travel 1.2 miles (1.9 km) on electric power alone at speeds up to 62 mph (100 km/h), contributing to further fuel efficiency.

Furthermore, the thin lithium-ion battery housed beneath the rear seats ensures practicality is not compromised, offering space for four golf bags or two suitcases.

The vehicle also features suspension tuned specifically for the M35h and a Vehicle Sound for Pedestrians (VSP) system that emits an alert sound to notify pedestrians of the vehicle's approach at low speeds.

Pricing and further details have not yet been finalized, but sales are scheduled to begin in the United States in the spring.

BRAND HISTORY
Nissan began producing the Cedric under its own name in 1960, with the parent company founded in 1937. After World War II, it engaged in knockdown production of British Austin vehicles. In 1966, it merged with Prince Motor Company. Between 1983 and 1987, it established a joint venture with Alfa Romeo of Italy for production in that country. At one point, it rivaled Toyota in market share, but faced a financial crisis in the 1990s, leading to capital participation from France's Renault in 1999, which continues to this day.

Nissan's distinctiveness lay in its car manufacturing tailored to the Japanese lifestyle. The dream of owning a personal car, the aspiration to enjoy high-performance vehicles, pride in Japanese cars with global value, and a penchant for luxury cars... Nissan has skillfully translated the evolving desires of Japanese people towards automobiles throughout the eras of motorization into its products. In 1966, during the dawn of motorization, the small car Sunny offered the dream of owning a "my car." In 1967, the Bluebird emphasized high performance. Against the backdrop of growing youth interest in motorsports, the Skyline was introduced in 1968. Furthermore, the Fairlady Z was launched in 1969 as a sports car "recognized in America." During the bubble economy era, capitalizing on the market's demand for luxury cars, the Cima achieved great success in 1988. Concurrently, the Skyline GT-R, embodying the high performance of Japanese cars, was unveiled in 1989, solidifying the "Skyline GT-R myth" that continues to the present-day NISSAN GT-R.

The company's genuine human touch, such as featuring developers prominently in advertising to foster a closer relationship with consumers, remains evident today. The personalized corporate image, driven by purpose and advancing forward like living beings during an era that championed performance and technology, is Nissan's unique strength.

It is true that Nissan has lagged behind competitors like Toyota in developing next-generation technologies. However, among the many businesses closed during the capital alliance with Renault in 1999, hybrid technology, which was ahead of its time, was reportedly included. The four-door EV "Leaf" is scheduled for release in the winter of 2010. Where is Nissan heading in terms of environmental technology?