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Ready for what could be the world’s first zero emission luxury SUV?
GM’s head honcho Rick Wagoner delivered his keynote speech at the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show after rolling on stage in GM’s electric-powered Chevy Volt. It was the first time in the show’s history that a leading automaker had addressed the convention and the climax was the unveiling of the latest concept vehicle in GM’s E-Flex lineup, the Cadillac Provoq.
GM says not only will the Provoq go from 0-60 in 8.5 seconds, it will come with solar panels on roof to power accessories such as an on board Blueray DVD player with twin 20” plasma screens.
Powered by GM's fifth generation hydrogen fuel cell system and a lithium-ion battery pack, the Provoq marks the expansion of GM's E-Flex system from the Chevy brand into its luxury Cadillac line. Like the fuel-cell powered Chevy Sequel, the Provoq runs relies on three electric motors--one mounted between the front wheels, in-wheel motors in each of the rear wheels--to power the car, which can apparently drive 300 miles on a single fill of hydrogen and 20 miles on battery electric energy alone. Unlike the Sequel, the Provoq can be charged from a standard A/C outlet via one of two charging ports in each of its front fenders. Other innovative features of the vehilce include a solar cell in the roof to assist with powering onboard electronics; an "active" front grille, with grille louvers that open when the fuel cell requires cooling and close at high speed to reduce drag; and shift- and brake-by-wire system.
(ces.cnet)
References: autoblog, ces.cnet
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