15 Jan 08
Cadillac previewed its Provoq concept car at the Consumer Electronics Show, Las Vegas, last week, but here it is in Detroit.
The Provoq - like many other concepts at the Detroit Show this year - is a compact crossover, but also a new variant on the Chevy Volt theme. Built on similar underpinnings, it has a new development of the E-Flex powertrain concept with a hydrogen-powered fuel cell system, incorporating a 70-watt motor to drive the front axle and 40-watt electric motors in the hubs of each of the rear wheels.
Effectively a hydrogen-hybrid, it is capable of a 280-mile range running on hydrogen, and 20 miles on battery power alone. However, battery power can be supplemented by electricity generated from solar panels in the roof, gathering enough energy to power systems such as the interior lights and stereo. The battery can also be manually charged via plug-in points (designed as eye-catching features) in the front bumpers, using a domestic power supply.
Yet performance is not sacrificed in favour of clean running: the Provoq is said to be capable of 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds and 100mph.
A five-seater, the Provoq's high-pressure hydrogen storage tanks are mounted underneath the load bay floor and its battery pack within the centre of the chassis. Its body has been smoothed off for optimum aerodynamics, with flush-fitting door handles and covered wheel hubs, as well as a grille with slots which automatically close at higher speeds.
Most systems, including braking and gearshifting, are electronic by-wire, and low rolling-resistance Michelin tyres are fitted to the 21" wheels. The cabin is finished in the expected Cadillac style, with hand-finished leather upholstery, an ambient lighting system, chrome and satin-chrome detailing and a two-tone grey colour scheme. Influenced by the design of the latest CTS interior, it also has a large central instrument stack and integrated hard drive for sat nav and audio files, plus LCD display screens, a Bluetooth-compatible communications system and a centre console with USB ports.
Emphasising the eco-friendliness of this zero-emissions vehicle, the cabin's headliner is made from a fully recyclable soy-based material, its carpets from recycled polyester and jute, and its leather upholstery has not been chemically treated.
The Provoq may not reach production exactly as-is, but it's clearly a well-developed prototype. 'Cadillac is a natural fit for GM's next step in developing the E-Flex platform,' said general manager Jim Taylor.
Don't be distracted by the fuel cell, however: we reckon that the Provoq is also a preview of the upcoming BRX crossover, sister model to the Saab 9-4X, which will go on sale initially with a conventional set of internal combustion engines, the fuel cell coming later.
Check out the rest of our Detroit Motor Show coverage
