Days ago, Infiniti used its calligraphy brush to once again stroke our interest in an upcoming debut—an obscure, possible hatch/sedan/crossover, set to be unveiled at next month's Geneva Auto Show. Now, the project has a name, the Etherea, and images.
Toying more with our question of just how to classify the stunning concept, the automaker describes the project's design as one that "blends elements of coupe, sedan, hatchback and even crossover in one highly sculptural, near-mono volume form."
Borrowing lines from the larger Essence concept, the Etherea keeps much of the same aesthetic, and wraps it into a smaller package—with headlamps that look like they'll stare right into your soul.
Only a few teasers are available right now, but they're a good step up from the paintbrush. Stay tuned - even more is definitely on the way.
Source: Infiniti
PRESS RELEASE: INFINITI NAMES ITS GENEVA CONCEPT
ROLLE, Switzerland (February 14, 2011) – Infiniti today releases the first images of its concept car for the Geneva Motor Show in March. Called ETHEREA, it is a compact luxury model that previews how a future entry-level Infiniti could look.
The pictures show an evolving Infiniti identity along with a profile distinctly different from anything currently available in the premium compact class.
"ETHEREA is about a new type of luxury for younger buyers," said Toru Saito, Corporate Vice President and Leader of the Global Infiniti Business Unit. "It is not just a smaller version of a typically conservative and traditional luxury car."
Designed under the direction of Senior Vice President of Design Shiro Nakamura, ETHEREA blends elements of coupé, sedan, hatchback and even crossover in one highly sculptural, near-mono volume form.
At 4.4m it is highly compact but at the same time it is space efficient and practical thanks to a new mechanical layout and innovative access arrangements.
Among its surprises are high-tech new interpretations of traditional Japanese materials and finishes, and several design cues set to make their mark on future production models – including the highly distinctive crescent-shaped C-pillar first seen on the Essence concept.
The ETHEREA makes its world debut on the Infiniti stand (Hall 1, Booth 1030) at 12:15 CET on Tuesday 1 March 2011
