While Ferrari and Lamborghini are unveiling their bonkers supercars with multiple cylinders and single-figure 'economy' in Geneva, Infiniti has lifted the lid on its take, albeit with a difference. We've already seen the impossibly sleek body in the many teased and leaked images to hit the Net, but what we haven't been able to reveal, until now, is what resides beneath.
And the answer is a rather unlikely 1.2-litre petrol engine with only three cylinders, more often seen in a city- rather than supercar, producing less than 50hp. But those three cylinders are supplemented by two electric motors, making for a combined output of over 400hp. A single-speed transmission means it can complete the 0-100km/h sprint in only four seconds, though it does stop accelerating at 109km/h. Zero emissions running is available for 50 kilometres, and the petrol-powered range-extending engine will add another 500 kilometres before it needs refuelling.
But this mid-engined supercar is as clever as it is quick, with the project being run from Nissan's Cranfield technical centre in the UK and involving Lotus, Cranfield University, GL Aero, Xtrac and MIRA. Carbon fibre panels keep the weight below 1,600kg while extensive wind tunnel work was important for effective EV cooling. There's an active spoiler that helps generate downforce at the rear too, while 295 profile 21-inch tyres have the job of keeping it on the tarmac.
Inside, the Emerge-E focuses on luxury and comfort, as befitting the brand, with leather and carbon fibre used throughout. And while the cabin won't make it to production totally unchanged, the firm hopes to keep the transparent canopy roof.
It might not be as far away as you'd think either - as rather than being a simple concept, the car at Geneva is actually a fully driveable prototype. It's expected to be launched later this year, and while you won't hear it coming, with a body like that you'll certainly see it. Not that Infinitis are sold in Ireland as yet of course.