Behind the Badge: Is the Infiniti Emblem a Road or a Mountain?
Luxury automaker Infiniti has been called the “Japanese BMW” for its quality products and refined driving experience. But what does the strange emblem adorning the grilles of Infiniti models mean, and does it have any connection to the brand’s name? Find out the meaning of the Infiniti logo below!
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How the Infiniti Brand Began
Back in 1985, Nissan formed the secretive “Horizon Task Force” to develop a new luxury brand for North America that would compete with new lines like Acura and Lexus. After thorough research and testing, the Infiniti name was unveiled in 1987, spelling “infinity” with four “I”s, which suggested the limitless potential of the brand. By the end of 1989, Infiniti dealerships were established across the United States and were ready for business.
NEXT: The multiple meanings of the Infiniti emblem
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The Multiple Meanings of the Infiniti logo
Many theories about the meaning of the Infiniti emblem continue to circulate, but which is the actual one? According to spokespeople for Infiniti, there are two meanings!
The first directly relates to the company’s name: it’s two lines reaching into the distance. This endless road travelling toward the future makes sense considering the “Horizon” task force’s name. It depicts infinity in a visual, progressive way– a highway.
The second interpretation is that it’s Mount Fuji in Japan, a “mountain shape representative of the highest point or apex in terms of sophistication, quality, and technical advancements.” It pays homage to the heritage of its parent brand, Nissan.
Some swear the Infiniti logo is the actual infinity mathematical symbol, a sideways “8.” However, many see that as a stretch, not apparent enough to be true–plus the automaker has never confirmed this interpretation.
It is also, notably, not the only auto brand logo that has been compared to Pac Man…
Enjoy learning about the Infiniti emblem and name? Check out the rest of The News Wheel’s “Behind the Badge” series to learn about other auto brands!
News Sources: Infiniti, Nissan, autoevolution, & VW Vortex forum
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Aaron is unashamed to be a native Clevelander and the proud driver of a Hyundai Veloster Turbo (which recently replaced his 1995 Saturn SC-2). He gleefully utilizes his background in theater, literature, and communication to dramatically recite his own articles to nearby youth. Mr. Widmar happily resides in Dayton, Ohio with his magnificent wife, Vicki, but is often on the road with her exploring new destinations. Aaron has high aspirations for his writing career but often gets distracted pondering the profound nature of the human condition and forgets what he was writing… See more articles by Aaron.