It was in 2009 at the Detroit Auto Show that General Motors released it’s luxury plug in concept vehicle, the Cadillac Converj. In the two years since then there has been a good deal of talk and supposed leaks from inside players that a full production model was being developed and prepared for the assembly line, but there has been no word from General Motors themselves, that is, until this past week when the Detroit Auto Giant came forward at a press conference and confirmed the long running rumors. Given the high amount of both public and industry interest the concept has garnered, many would say that it is about time.
“The concept generated instant enthusiasm,” Don Butler, VP of Cadillac marketing, said in a statement. “Like other milestone Cadillac models of the past, the ELR will offer something not otherwise present -– the combination of electric propulsion with striking design and the fun of luxury coupe driving.”
While General Motors has yet to release any specs, the Cadillac Converj, now called the Cadillac ELR, will likely be a ritzed up version of the Chevy Volt, which would mean that it will likely be a plug-in hybrid, certified by the Environmental Protection Agency with an electric range of 35 miles. As the 16-kilowatt-hour battery winds down, a 1.4-liter gasoline engine drives a 53-kilowatt generator to keep juice flowing to the 111-kilowatt motor. All reports coming in on the Chevy Volt have been highly favorable, and we expect nothing less from the Cadillac ELR when it hits showroom floors in early 2013.
Phoenix Valley auto enthusiasts can view and test drive any current production model Cadillac at any Phoenix Valley Cadillac dealer. Phoenix Valley auto enthusiasts should plan on attending the Phoenix Arizona International Auto Show to learn about the most recent concepts and innovations in the auto industry, including all of the latest technologies and ideas in the way of positive design and quality electric vehicles, taking place at the Phoenix Arizona Convention center over Thanksgiving weekend.