GM has given its Cadillac Converj idea the go ahead for manufacturing, a 4 passenger luxurious coupe based mostly on the platform and electrified powertrain underpinning the Chevy Volt. This glossy, chiseled model was first proven at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show to essential acclaim. Financial issues with the parent company shelved the deal, however GM has resurrected its plans to build what’s going to most certainly be a 2014 model when it goes on sale someday in 2013.
The Converj name might not survive, which isn’t surprising as Cadillac has adopted a three letter nomenclature for its latest models. The Escalade name additionally stays, but that too might give strategy to a new model identify when its replacement shows up shortly after the Converj is introduced.
Building the Converj is smart for GM as it is based mostly on its Voltec technology. That engineering has a lithium-ion battery pack paired with a 1.4-liter turbocharged four cylinder engine, permitting the present Volt model to drive roughly 35 miles on electric energy solely before its gasoline motor kicks in. The Cadillac is expected to have an updated variation of the powerpack, with A123 Systems supplying that system.
The Converj shares a few of the styling attributes of the Cadillac CTS coupe, however with a clean departure from the B-pillar on back. The Converj is extra rakish with an almost invisible C-pillar making for a hatchback like design. Doubtless, this vehicle could have a trunk which can house a part of the battery system in addition to offer a fair quantity of storage.
The Cadillac Converj will be fully equipped, offering such luxury touches and amenities as leather seating, wood trim, a navigation system, premium audio system, climate control, heated and cooled seats, and more. Safety features together with ABS, traction management, digital brakeforce distribution, energetic head restraints and side curtain airbags will even be featured.
Pricing will almost definitely begin north of $60,000, which is about $20,000 more than the base Chevy Volt. This may enable GM to spread its Voltec costs to more platforms and allow the corporate to tap a market it does not reach with the Volt in the meanwhile, particularly luxury automotive buyers. The Converj will compete against select Lexus, Infiniti and Lincoln models as well as Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
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