Autoblog

Click above for more shots of the Opel Flextreme concept

When the Volt concept was first unveiled, GM was not sure how to badge European versions of the E-Flex cars. Apparently, the decision has been made and the first Euro-bound EV's from GM will be badged as Opels, with a Vauxhall version coming shortly thereafter. All three models of the E-Flex chassis will be built in Detroit atop the next-gen Delta compact car platform which was designed to carry a large lithium ion battery pack along with a range-extending engine. Though the Europeans would likely favor a diesel powerplant, it seems that the first-generation of all three E-Flex vehicles will use a gasoline-powered engine for on-the-fly battery recharging.

It goes without saying that the Volt and its Euro-clones will be the most expensive vehicles built on the Delta platform, with U.S. pricing estimated to be at least $40 grand. Across the pond, the Opel and Vauxhall E-Flex's will be saddled with at least a 10,000 euro premium. The price of gasoline, which is significantly higher in Europe than in the States, along with any government assistance for purchasers of the EVs, will determine how quickly customers will recoup that added investment.


[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

Click image for photo gallery

The Opel Flextreme concept is GM's European answer to the Chevy Volt, and it's destined to be one of the stars of this year's very green-tinged Frankfurt Motor Show. The vehicle's name was leaked in a Financial Times article published on August 31, and this evening, several photos and more information about the concept were published online. We happily share what's available so far.

The Flextreme sports a Euro-friendly hatchback/crossover-style body as opposed to Volt's US-targeted sedan duds, which allows for an area in which a pair Segways can be stored and charged by the car's onboard electrical system. It's also got a glass panoramic roof, rear suicide doors, and rearview cameras in lieu of traditional mirrors.

Under the skin, the Flextreme and Volt are largely the same save for the engine supplying power to the car's onboard generator. The Flextreme utilizes a 1.3-liter Ecotec turbodiesel instead of the 1-liter 3-cylinder turbo E85/flex-fuel unit featured in the Volt. A lithium-ion battery pack provides the juice for the car's front-mounted electric motor. Battery-only range on a full charge is 40 miles, and when battery power has been exhausted, the diesel will kick in to start replenishing it. It's a PHEV, so it can also be charged by being plugged into an electrical outlet.

The gang headed to Germany will bring us all plenty of live shots and first-person coverage next week.

[Sources: Carscoop, km77, Jalopnik]