Infiniti has released a teaser image of a new concept it plans to unveil at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show: the Essence. The vehicle is a collaboration with Louis Vuitton, the French luxury-goods purveyor.

Nearly 13 years ago, Infiniti’s French parent, Renault, teamed with Vuitton on a showcar called the Initiale, which was the forerunner of the Renault Vel Satis.

In fact, Vuitton’s connection with the transportation business dates back more than a century, according to the book Louis Vuitton: The Art of the Automobile, which notes that the manufacturer in the late 19th century provided custom-made trunks for the baskets of hot-air balloons. LV also has sponsored concours d'elegance for the past 20 years.

Back in the present, Vuitton is furnishing a bespoke set of luggage for the Infiniti Essence, in part to mark the 20th anniversary of the Infiniti brand.