SMART POWER AND MAXIMUM DRIVER CONTROL FROM REVOLUTIONARY VARIABLE COMPRESSION RATIO VC-TURBO POWERTRAIN
As a brand with technological innovation at its core, the wider introduction of our advanced VC-Turbo powertrain is a natural next step for INFINITI. After the recently-launched QX50, the Q Inspiration proposes an alternative application for VC-Turbo technology in a potential new product.
- François Bancon, Vice President, Product and Programs
HIGH POWER, TORQUE AND EFFICIENCY FROM REVOLUTIONARY VC-TURBO ENGINE
The Q Inspiration Concept is powered by INFINITI's unique VC-Turbo technology, suggesting future application of variable compression ratio engines across a range of INFINITI models.
VC-Turbo represents a breakthrough in combustion engine design. Following its production debut in the QX50, INFINITI's VC-Turbo engine is the world's first variable compression ratio engine. The Q Inspiration's engine continually transforms, adjusting its compression ratio to optimize power and fuel efficiency. It combines the power of a larger V6 gasoline engine with the torque and efficiency of an advanced four-cylinder diesel engine.
The VC-Turbo changes its compression ratio seamlessly with an advanced multi-link system, continuously raising or lowering the pistons' reach to transform compression ratio – offering both power and efficiency, as the driver demands. Deploying smart power for greater control, the empowering engine exemplifies INFINITI's driver-centric approach.
A high compression ratio gives greater efficiency while a low compression ratio allows for greater power and torque. The VC-Turbo engine offers any compression ratio between 8:1 (for high performance) and 14:1 (for high efficiency). Its single-scroll turbocharger, mounted directly to the cylinder head integrated exhaust manifold, enables immediate throttle responses at any speed or compression ratio. The VC-Turbo changes compression ratios seamlessly.
Q Inspiration previews near-future applications for INFINITI's VC-Turbo technology
The Q Inspiration represents INFINITI's investigation to introduce its VC-Turbo engine technology to other models in future. Its compact packaging and flexible power delivery make VC-Turbo an ideal powertrain technology for propulsion across segments.
Powered by VC-Turbo, the Q Inspiration therefore volunteers a new approach to power delivery in the mid-size sedan segment, where many customers expect larger-displacement engines to provide adequate power and acceleration – often to the detriment of fuel efficiency. Though only a four-cylinder engine, the VC-Turbo's blend of performance and efficiency challenges the notion that only hybrid and diesel powertrains can deliver high torque and efficiency. VC-Turbo technology also offers similar performance to some V6 gasoline engines, demonstrating the potential benefits to sedan buyers.
The Q Inspiration provides drivers with an intelligent all-wheel drive system, a front-biased drivetrain able to apportion torque to individual rear wheels as driving conditions demand.
The Q Inspiration’s engine continually transforms, adjusting its compression ratio to optimize power and fuel efficiency. It combines the power of a larger V6 gasoline engine with the torque and efficiency of an advanced four-cylinder diesel engine.
The Q Inspiration provides drivers with anintelligentall-wheel drive system, a front-biased drivetrain able to apportion torque to individual rear wheels as driving conditions demand.
"The beauty of the VC-Turbo powertrain is that it is a global technology. While we have plans to electrify our product portfolio in future, drivers all around the world are still reliant on internal combustion engines for their transport needs. This revolutionary engine offers a compelling blend of turbocharged performance and high efficiency. These qualities need not be unique to hybrids and diesels."
- François Bancon, Vice President, Product and Programs