According to 370Z.com, Nissan is developing a plug-in hybrid version of its Nissan 370Z for the 2011 MY. Normally, we'd call this idle speculation, but the world is topsy-turvy these days, so we'll play along.

Nissan has previously stated its intent to release a hybridized version of its Fuga Sedan, which is the Infiniti M in the US, but if these sources are correct the plan is to drop it into the Z the following year. The system would centered around an NEC-sourced lithium-ion battery and an electric drive motor in parallel with the internal combustion engine, each getting their own separate clutch. The car would get plug-in capability which would help push the fuel economy up to a projected, and darn-respectable 35 MPG in combined use. If it comes to pass, the 370Z hybrid would be the first large scale hybrid sports car available and will make us rethink our hybrid smugness-o-meter

Well whaddya know. Randy Rodriguez, one of the key designers of the Nissan 370Z, is an S30 fan at heart, according to this Canadian Press article. He’s owned 10 of them, in fact, and currently drives 1977 280Z that he restored himself. He says that his sketches were heavily influenced by the 240Z and the new GT-R. You might take issue with his statement that the 240Z and 350Z were the best Zs, but it’s good to know there such die-hard Datsun enthusiasts  working at Nissan.