Word has spilled from the Motor City via The Detroit News that General Motors will produce the Cadillac Converj extended-range electric car. For industry pundits, it seemed predestined that GM would offer a luxury sibling to the much ballyhooed Chevrolet Volt. By packaging the innovative drivetrain in a Cadillac model, GM can amortize the investment across more sales volume. Just as significantly, a Cadillac sports car can absorb the cost for the expensive battery packs, and it will make the Volt seem like an affordable, practical alternative, rather than the most expensive Chevrolet in history.
First shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Cadillac Converj served as the automaker’s grand finale. Product czar Bob “Maximum” Lutz at the time said if greenlighted, the production Converj would closely resemble the show vehicle.
As you can see here, the Converj bears more than a family resemblance to the CTS Coupe, and it puts a sharp edge on luxury sportsters in general. Going green is fast becoming cool.
The Volt is expected to go on sale by late 2010, so don’t look for a Cadillac version till 2011 at the earliest.
Also see:
Driving a Chevy Volt Test Mule
2011 Chevrolet Volt to Get 230 mpg?!
Learn more about fuel economy and
driving green.