The Cadillac ELR extended-range electric vehicle has been teased ahead of its unveiling at next month’s 2013 Detroit motor show.
Featuring hybrid technology shared with the Holden Volt, the Cadillac ELR will become the iconic American brand’s first plug-in production car when it starts rolling off the same Detroit-Hamtramck assembly line as the Volt from late next year.
Based on the Cadillac Converj concept that debuted in Detroit four years earlier, the luxury division of General Motors promises people will “instantly recognise” the ELR coupe thanks to its “true-to-concept” exterior styling.
The Converj was distinctive for its deep-reaching boomerang-shaped headlights and tail-lights, prominent chrome grille, heavily raked windscreen and tailgate and shallow glasshouse.
The Cadillac ELR will feature a propulsion system based on that used by the Volt, incorporating a T-shaped lithium-ion battery with an electric motor and a four-cylinder petrol engine that acts as a generator. Like the Volt, the ELR uses electricity as its primary power source for a zero-emissions range of around 61km, and calls on the generator to recharge the battery when charge is low to extend its range beyond 600km.
More details on the Cadillac ELR will be revealed in the lead-up to its Detroit debut on January 15.