7 Infiniti Firsts

Feb 10, 2016

2016 Infiniti

Infiniti has been an innovative force in the auto industry for more than a quarter of a century, and they’ve been first in several technology revolutions that have redefined what we look for in a new car today. Read on to learn more about the amenities this premium brand has brought us over the years.

2016 Infiniti Cruise Control

Intelligent Cruise Control

Back in 2001, Infiniti was among the first to implement a laser-based digital rangefinder that could detect vehicles ahead of you, helping you maintain your pre-selected following distance. This technology revolutionized the way automakers began to think about laser-based devices that could provide additional safety assistance to drivers.

Voice Recognition

We take voice recognition technology for granted today, but in 2002, this technology was still relatively new, and certainly not commonplace. The automaker began outfitting vehicles with Infiniti Voice Recognition that allowed drivers to control climate settings, audio, and even navigation with their voice, which was unheard of at the time.

RearView Monitor

Also in 2002, Infiniti introduced what they called a RearView Monitor on the Q45 sedan. This backup camera was the first of its kind, and today the technology can be found in even the most entry-level vehicle’s list of standard equipment.

2016 Infiniti Q70L

Lane Departure Warning

Infiniti pioneered lane departure warning technology as early as 2005. In 2008, it became a complete Lane Departure Prevention system, not only alerting drivers when they coast out of their lane, but also actively preventing that from happening. The LDP system works by utilizing a camera to monitor lane markings on the road, sounding an audible warning when necessary. If the mistake isn’t corrected, the vehicle’s brakes are then applied to gently help move the vehicle back into its proper lane.

Around View Monitor

In 2008, Infiniti introduced the first 360-degree bird’s-eye view of a vehicle while parking. The Around View Monitor was designed to help drivers get a better understanding of their surroundings when parking, helping maneuver even the tightest spaces. Today, this technology is standard in virtually every Nissan vehicle, and it’s even being introduced on newer Ford models. If this technology goes the way of the rearview camera, we can expect around view monitoring to be standard equipment on vehicles in the future.

2016 Infiniti

Direct Adaptive Steering

First introduced in 2014 on the Infiniti Q50 sedan, Direct Adaptive Steering is a groundbreaking technology that allows you to choose your steering modes: Heavy, Standard, or Light. This helps you customize steering effort and response, giving you greater control over the vehicle. It works by transmitting your steering inputs electronically for a quicker, more precise response.

Predictive Forward Collision Warning

Also introduced in 2014 on the Q50, Predictive Forward Collision Warning was the world’s first system of its kind that could look not only ahead of the vehicle in front of you, but also ahead of the vehicles in front of that vehicle. Though we’re only beginning to see the advantages of this feature, this predictive technology is certain to be heavily relied on in the future.

Invest in forward-thinking technology that makes driving safer and more enjoyable. Invest in an Infiniti.