• by Tanya Gazdik , August 2, 2018

Infiniti is once again partnering with Motor Trend Group for its marketing activations surrounding the renowned Concours d’Elegance and Pebble Beach Automotive Week.

This year’s events include the inaugural Japanese Automotive Invitational on Aug. 25 and 26. The event aims to bring even more diversity to the premier celebration of classic, vintage automobiles and demonstrate the prowess Japan brings to the industry, according to Infiniti. 

Last year, Motor Trend Group’s efforts for Infiniti at Pebble Beach included a pavilion on the grounds of Pebble Beach offering ride and drives and other exposure to the brand’s technology and a concept vehicle. This is MTG’s fifth year of partnership with the automaker at Pebble Beach.

The invitational will display Japanese automobiles along with presentations from experts in the category. The vehicles, including the 1964 Datsun 1500 Roadster, 1966 Toyota 2000GT, 1970 Mazda Cosmo Sport and 1994 Infiniti J30, “exemplify Japanese innovation, design and performance that originate from a rich and historically significant car culture,” according to the automaker.

The event aims to distinguish itself as the premier experience dedicated to Japanese automotive achievements, culture, personalities and the future of Japanese-inspired innovation and design, says Ed Loh, senior vice president content, Motor Trend Group, and Motor Trend editor-in-chief. 

“We are excited to offer a new opportunity for passionate automotive enthusiasts to engage with pristine examples of Japanese craftsmanship and technology,” Loh says in a release.

Located adjacent to the Infiniti pavilion on Concours Plaza, the invitational is open to spectators with no additional tickets required. The event will feature special guest appearances including Loh plus live entertainment from a local DJ and the presentation of the inaugural “honorary medallion” to a select car owner.

The display of Japanese automotive heritage features vehicles that exemplify the innovation, design and performance that originate from a historically significant car culture, says Phil O’Connor, director, marketing communications and media, Infiniti USA. 

“Infiniti will also showcase a part of our own legacy — including the Q45t and Prototype 9 — connecting guests with our past while offering a glimpse of Infiniti’s future of design, technology and electrification,” O’Connor says.

Attendees will have the opportunity to view classic examples of Japanese automotive design, including the Q Inspiration, the latest concept car from Infiniti.

The show-quality vehicles from different Japanese automotive makes will be on loan from private collectors, automotive museums and manufacturer collections, including the Petersen Automotive Museum, California Automobile Museum and Vintage Motor Management.