There are more than a few interesting concepts showing up at the Geneva International Motor Show this year, some of which are closer to production than others. This sleek-looking four-door from the Italian styling house Pininfarina definitely falls on the “daydreaming” side of the spectrum, but although you’re not likely to see it in dealers, well, ever, it does bring a few very interesting ideas to the table. Not only does it look good and come stuffed with luxury, but what it’s got under the hood gives us a glimpse at a possible future innovation for hybrid power.

Created as a collaborative project with Hong Kong-based Hybrid Kinetic Group (HK), the H600 is framed as a high-performance luxury sedan for well-to-do business types.

Outside, we find styling that’s in line with what you’d expect from Pininfarina. The lines are muted and subtle, curving into solid forms that are smoothed out from front to back. Polished aluminum was used for detailing, while the paint is finished in grey.

Step into the cabin through the rear-hinged doors, and you’ll find a futuristic layout with leather upholstery in a cocoa brown finish, copper contrast stitching, and veneered wood trim. A clock in the central panel adds class, while copious ambient lighting and large panel screens take it too modern times.

It looks like a standard concept, but the big headline is the hybrid powertrain, which provides enough juice to hit 62 mph in less than three seconds, and enough range to go 1,000 km (621 miles).

So it’s fast, luxurious, and efficient. Intrigued? Read on for more info, plus our take on what this concept really means for the industry.

Continue reading for the full story.

Why It Matters

Odds are you’ve heard of Pininfarina. Founded in Torino in 1930, the design firm has been the pen behind countless gorgeous vehicles over the years, with some of the most notable examples coming from collaborations with automakers like Alfa Romeo, Maserati, and Ferrari.

On the other hand, Hybrid Kinetic Group is probably less well known. However, its hybrid powerplant is the real star of this concept, combining a high-capacity battery, several electric motors, an electrical controller, and a range-extending turbine generator. There’s also something called an energy recycling system that’s included, and although no specific details were provided, it is most likely one of those kinetic energy recovery set-ups so common these days amongst the max milers and performance hybrids.

But don’t be fooled – this isn’t some left-lane living commuter. The H600 is intended to be an impressive machine in the realm of speed, as well. Put your foot down, and 62 mph happens in 2.9 seconds, while peak output is rated at 600 kW, or roughly 805 horsepower. Keep your foot pinned, and the H600 will max out at 250 km/h (155 mph).

This thing should also handle. The electric motivation provides all-wheel torque vectoring for sprightlier cornering, while the all-aluminum body keeps weight low. The weight that is there is distributed in a very even ratio, with 52 percent of the mass in front, and 48 percent of the mass in the rear.

Pair all that goodness with superb comfort, standout styling, and a total range that eclipses 600 miles, and the H600 is making quite the statement.

And sure, it might be all concept gloss, but this thing is still a clear indication that hybrid power, long range, and lots of efficiency under the hood are no longer the characteristics of the money savers. These are now the traits of the premium offering.

As I’ve outlined in my article on the new Lexus LS 500h, the hybrids are indeed taking over. Smart and efficient is becoming cool, fast, and desirable amongst the world’s wealthier individuals, and the H600 is further proof of that.

|