Rumormill: Nissan 370Z Hybrid for 2011?
We're expecting Infiniti to launch its first hybrid sometime in either 2010 or 2011, likely based on the M35 luxury sedan. Unlike past hybrids from Nissan, parent company of the Infiniti brand, this new technology will not be a licensed version of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive. Interestingly, reports out of Japan indicate that this new hybrid tech could filter on down the line to find itself under the shapely hood of Nissan's new 370Z.
Lending further credence to these rumors is an image of a blue 370Z with a hybrid emblem on the front fascia. If these rumors are accurate, expect the fuel-saving sportscar to be equipped with a lithium ion battery from corporate partner NEC that feeds power to a lone electric motor sandwiched between the Z's 3.7L VQ V6 engine and transmission. The dual-headed powertrain is reportedly expected to achieve 35 miles per gallon on the mixed cycle, though those are likely Japanese figures that don't often jive with U.S. EPA numbers.
[Source: 370Z.com]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Noz 1:38AM (5/06/2009)
Wow...something that actually makes some sense.
Reply
Chris 3:20AM (5/06/2009)
How would adding a hybrid powertrain to a sports car make any sense? I guess people don't realize how hybrid powertrains work. They work more efficiently at a slower speed.
MikeW 10:36AM (5/06/2009)
There isn't one definition of 'hybrid'
If the electric motor is powerful enough, 105ft-lbs@2500rpm, then Nissan could use the VQ25hr V6 instead of the VQ37vhr V6. (with 7 speed auto of course)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6Weon6-3ms
Noz 2:25PM (5/06/2009)
Why shouldn't it make sense? If it saves fuel and offers similar performance, what's the problem? Just because you have a sports car doesn't mean you're using its full potential 24 hours a day does it?
You all seem to be stuck in the concept of propulsion must = IC engine.
Snowdog 7:05AM (5/06/2009)
Why? I can see this making sense in a lightweight 4 cyl like the planned Honda CRZ, but in a heavy weight like the Z with big V6, this is another Accord V6 hybrid waiting to fail.
Reply
MikeW 10:53AM (5/06/2009)
It would make sense by using run-flat tires, usurp the spare wheel space for batteries.
Depending on how much regenerative braking, the real world city mileage could improve from 20 to 25mpg.
If Nissan uses the big engine, vq37, then highway driving would improve because the VQ37vhr really doesn't get started until 2750rpm.
http://blogs.edmunds.com/straightline/dynocomp-555.jpg
So less shifting, smoother driving, enhanced mileage.