The long-awaited transfer of Chevrolet Volt technology into more upscale threads has become reality in the form of the 2014 Cadillac ELR, revealed Tuesday at the Detroit auto show.
The
2+2 coupe will be built in limited numbers, though Cadillac wouldn't
say precisely how many will be produced. It will be assembled at General
Motors' Detroit-Hamtramck factory, where the Volt is also built, a
short distance from the show.
The ELR
runs an extended-range electric powertrain, including a
16.5-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack that offers a pure electric
range of about 35 miles, depending on conditions. The car is about 250
pounds heavier than the Volt, primarily due to more upscale packaging,
which cuts the ELR's potential range slightly.
“If you want to
build a true, premium luxury brand, you have to have these specialized
vehicles to create a splash,” said Mark Adams, Cadillac design director.
After
electric power is exhausted, a 1.4-liter gasoline-powered generator
kicks on to extend range to up to 300 miles. Total system output is 207
hp.
The T-shaped battery pack runs down the center of the ELR. It
weighs about 435 pounds, and is capable of 295 lb-ft of torque. It
takes 4.5 hours to charge on a 240-volt outlet, or 12 hours on a
120-volt, depending on conditions.
The ELR
has four driver modes: sport, touring, mountain and hold.
Interestingly, the hold selection allows drivers to use the generator so
as to save battery power for times when it can be most effective, such
as in city driving.
It's all wrapped in a design that is more
than 90 percent true to the original Converj concept from 2009. It
features a bold grille, LED lights front and rear, and strong lines and
angles through the middle of the car. The ELR rolls on 20-inch wheels
and has a dramatic interior that uses chrome, leather, suede microfiber,
wood and carbon fiber, depending on the package. A particularly
stunning option is the brilliant shade of brown that can be selected for
the semi-aniline leather seats. Cadillac's CUE technology is also
standard and can be viewed on an 8-inch touchscreen.
The chassis
has a HiPer Strut front suspension in front and a semi-independent Watts
link configuration in back. It runs continuous damping control, rather
than magnetic ride, which is used for many performance Cadillacs and
Chevrolets. The steering is a rack-mounted electric power setup, and the
brakes are electrohydraulic.
The ELR also employs a
regeneration-on-demand feature, which is engaged via paddle shifters.
The system regenerates energy and has the effect of slightly slowing the
vehicle down.
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