Nissan's Infiniti luxury arm has been in a slump lately -- the most recent issue prevented dealerships from ordering new parts, and of course, there was the whole failed merger with FCA. But Infiniti is seemingly inching towards the light at the end of the tunnel with new products on the horizon such as a new QX55 crossover coupe and a complete shift towards electrification.

In order to lead the Infiniti brand into a new era, the company has appointed a new Head of Design, replacing the former boss, Karim Habib, who left the company to pursue other opportunities. Taisuke Nakamura, the Japanese stylist credited for penning the QX Inspiration Concept and the Prototype 10 Speedster, will be the Head of Infiniti design effect September 1st, 2019. Nakamura will report to SVP Nissan Global Design, Alfonso Albaisa.

Albaisa issued a statement on the new appointment and the departure of former design boss, Karim Habib: "Taisuke Nakamura, previously reporting to Karim as Infiniti Program Design Director will step into a new global leadership role reporting to me as head of design for Infiniti, where he will continue to shape the brand's electrified journey. As a key member of our global design organization, Karim was a key collaborator and leader helping Nissan Motors shape the electrification of Infiniti. In addition to his work on Infiniti, he was a key member of Global Design's Management Committee as we incorporated new technologies, new processes, and new directions for Nissan and Infiniti. As a deeply valued member of our family, we wish him continued success, happiness and all the best as he seeks new inspiration and achievements outside of Nissan."

Nakamura's resume includes some fabulous designs such as the QX Inspiration, which previews a future electrified successor to the QX70. He also penned the Prototype 10, which envisions a roofless electric sports car. We doubt Infiniti will give Nakamura the freedom to build a production sports car like the Prototype 10 but perhaps he could design a production-ready version of the Q60 Project Black S concept with Formula 1-inspired hybrid technology.