Infiniti’s latest model, the all-new Q50, was awarded “Best Chinese Premiere” by the organising committee of the Shanghai International Auto Show. In cooperation with sohu.com, one of China’s leading Internet news websites, the Q50 was chosen for its fresh design, sporty appearance, and advanced powertrains as the committee expressed its conviction that the car will attract great consumer interest.
The award was presented to Daniel Kirchert, Managing Director of Infiniti China, by Mr. He Yi, General Manager of sohu.com’s auto business unit and deputy editor-in-chief of sohu.com as part of a ceremony at the show in Shanghai yesterday.
“We are honoured and very proud that our new premium Q50 saloon received this much-respected award,” said Kirchert. “This is a kickstart for the Q50 in China. We are looking forward to the market launch in spring 2014 with much confidence.”
China is a key market in Infiniti’s global growth strategy. Last year, the company established its global headquarters in Hong Kong, from where it can serve the Chinese market even better. At the Shanghai Show, Infiniti announced local production of two vehicle versions that will be specifically developed for the Chinese market. As of 2014, the long-wheelbased versions of the Q50 and the QX50 will be built in the Xiangyang plant which is operated by Infiniti’s joint venture partner in China, Dongfeng Motors Ltd.
The all-new Infiniti Q50 debuts with a new world’s first production performance technology: Infiniti Direct Adaptive Steering™ technology and Active Lane Control™. The new steering system allows advanced control of the Q50’s tyre angle and steering inputs, transmitting the driver’s intentions to the wheels faster than a mechanical system. Four different steering settings are offered, allowing customisation by driver preference or road conditions. The Active Lane Control™ uses a camera-based lane marker detection system to further enhance on-centre driving capability and improve vehicle straight line ability.
Inside, the Infiniti Q50 interior offers a driver-centric cockpit with an array of premium comfort and convenience features. The new Infiniti InTouch™ communications system includes large dual touch-screen displays and puts communication with the outside world within easy reach, with integration of hands-free phone, moving map navigation, entertainment and smart phone apps in a way that is safe and easy-to-use while driving.
