2019 Concept Vehicle of the Year Award

Concept vehicles introduced at major motor shows in the U.S. during the previous season were deemed eligible for our Concept Vehicle of the Year. Our team of six experienced and respected jurors, led by former GM designer (SSR) and current director of the Leland Chapter of the Society of Automotive Historians, Brian Baker, selected 19 finalists.

Our jurists all have global experience in the field: former designers, a former V.P. of design and academic leaders in automotive design. Ultimately, this year’s winner was selected after careful consideration. The INFINITI Q Inspiration Concept proposes how an innovative VC-Turbo powertrain, next-level autonomous drive technologies and unique human-centric interior could enrich the experience for drivers of luxury sedans. Powered by the world’s first production-ready variable compression ratio engine, the INFINITI Q Inspiration boasts a revolutionary powertrain combining turbocharged gasoline power with the torque and efficiency of a hybrid or diesel engine. The VC-Turbo engine continually transforms, adjusting its compression ratio to optimize power and fuel efficiency, resulting in the smart application of power for greater driver control.

This year’s Chief Judge is Brian C. Baker, Founder of AutoArcheology

Judging Team

• Bob Boniface, veteran designer for Chrysler and GM, Retired
• Wayne Cherry, GM Vice President of Design, Retired
• John Manoogian II, adjunct faculty at College for Creative Studies
• Paul Snyder, former designer at Ford and Honda, faculty member at the College for Creative Studies
• Keith Nagara, designer at Chrysler and Ford, founder and director of the Transportation Design and Industrial Design Programs at Lawrence Technological University