GM unviels Chevrolet Volt MPV5 at China Auto Show

General Motors (GM) is rolling out the Chevrolet Volt MPV5 concepts at the Beijing Auto Show. The Volt combines the Volt’s series-hybrid powertrain with the small cross over and what you ultimately get is the cross over utility vehicle based on ChevyVolt range extended electric vehicle called the Volt MPV5.  This new baby from GM differs from other Volts in size and many more features.

Volt MPV5 is bigger and more stretched and is designed to accommodate five people comfortably providing more space for the luggage as well. It uses the same grille as theVolt sedan that sports active openings for a smooth airflow over the car. The closed grille and the lower air dam make it the most aerodynamic crossover and also helps improve its fuel efficiency. The Volt MPV5 borrows the design concept and aerodynamic details from Chevrolet Volt.

Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM China Group said, “GM is committed to finding and adopting solutions, which include the electrification of the automobiles. The world premiere of theVolt MPV5 concept in Beijing demonstrates GM’s desire to make China a global focus of its advanced technology strategy.”

The new concept Volt MPV5 has a stretched wheelbase which is 0.6inch more than the Volt sedan and longer at 180.5 inches and almost three inches wider than the Volt sedan. The Volt MPV5 is powered by a 1.4 L engine and 16 kilowatt-hour-lithium-ion battery that can propel the Volt for almost 32 miles. The engine can power a generator to extend the range up to 300 miles. The top speed of MPV5 is 100mph.

The gas-and-tailpipe emission-free electric driving utilized by Volt MPV5 boasts of an exterior which is also as appealing as the efficiency features of the car. The Sonic Blue Metallic paint and its dual skylight panels just add to its sporty looks. TheVolt MPV5 will be available in China in 2011.

Doug Parks, Global Vehicle Line Executive and Global Vehicle Chief Engineer for Electric Vehicle said, “The Volt MPV5 concept demonstrates the flexibility of the Voltec propulsion system, which can produce enough electric power to propel a range of vehicles.”