[VIDEO] Seb Tests Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Prototype
The concept, which was first revealed at NAIAS, is now officially an engineering feasibility study and one step closer to production.
The Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Prototype was track-tested at Millford by none other than Seb Vettel
There was already plenty enough reason to be excited about the Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge concept when we got our first look at it during the 2014 North American International Auto Show, and then again when we heard that engine roaring for the first time at Geneva. The only thing left to do was to see the beast in motion, which is exactly what we got at the Beijing Auto Show in the form of running footage of the Q50 Eau Rouge Prototype was revealed for the first time.
Granted, the video’s less-than-a-minute runtime leaves a lot to the imagination, particularly when 10 percent of the video’s length consists of four-time Formula One champion/Eau Rouge Prototype pilot slowly marching toward his chariot.
But once we get behind the wheel and get roaring…well, yeah, it’s pretty impressive.
The video, shot at the Millbrook Proving Grounds, shows how well the prototype corners and how well it grips the wet track. The engine, as before, sounds amazing, which is particularly impressive when contrasted with how quiet the cabin ride sounds.
GALLERY: Infiniti Q50 Eau Rouge Concept
“Taking the decision to build and develop a prototype of the Q50 Eau Rouge concept following the positive response we received in Detroit and Geneva, was a logical next step for us in our evaluation process,” said Johan de Nysschen, President of Infiniti Motor Company Limited, in a press release. “Having a four-time world champion like Sebastian Vettel take an active part in the testing program around the prototype ensures that we will meet the level of performance criteria we desire for an Infiniti high-performance sport sedan.”
Infiniti also revealed at Beijing that the concept is no longer just a concept; it is an engineering feasibility study. This means that we can essentially move past the hem and haw of will-they-or-won’t-they to a degree. If the testing conducted on the Q50 Eau Rouge Prototype and subsequent analysis determines that it is financially viable to build a production model, it shall be done.
Given that the Eau Rouge’s twin-turbo 3.8-liter V6, mated to a seven-speed gearbox on an AWD platform, cranks out 560 horses and can climb from 0-60 mph in less than four seconds, it’s fair to say we’ve got our fingers crossed.
The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We’re located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what’s trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.