Marking the first of a network of global design studios for Infiniti, the new facility is based in the iconic Battleship Building at Paddington Basin and comes as Infiniti plans to expand its premium model range by 60% by the end of the decade.

Infiniti vice president for Europe, Middle East and Africa, Francois Goupil de Bouillé, said: ‘Design is a key driver as we continue to sharpen the Infiniti brand. Our passion for design will deliver a broad range of very distinct premium vehicles – the expansion of our product portfolio is at the core of our growth plan.’

The facility will be able to design and make full-size clay models and bears the distinction of being one of very few full-capability automotive design centres around the world to have a city centre location.

‘With the expansion of the portfolio, Infiniti design will keep evolving. Having dedicated studios is essential to deepen Infiniti design furthermore.’ said Shiro Nakamura, chief creative officer of Infiniti and senior vice president of Nissan Motor Corporation.

‘This is the first step of a global initiative to purify and reinforce the distinctiveness of Infiniti design. The next steps are to open Infiniti design studios in Beijing and San Diego as well shortly,’ he continued.

The facility is opened just two weeks before Infiniti’s new concept car has its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show on 2nd October. Designed at the London facility, the concept – called Q80 Inspiration – previews a new top-of-the-range model for Infiniti.