On Sunday, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said that the Cadillac Converj would go on sale after 2012.
For the uninitiated, the Cadillac Converj is the 2 door luxury version of the Chevy Volt extended-range electric vehicle. There was no indication if the Voltec propulsion system would be upgraded for higher performance, which would involve higher power electronics and a larger internal combustion engine for the generator.
Interestingly, Bob Lutz has admitted what Tesla Motors and Fisker Automotive already know - that hybrid EV and EV propulsion systems are expensive - specifically, the batteries - and to make a profit, you must sell an upscale vehicle for which premium customers will pay significant margins. To that end, GM will cap Chevy Volt production at 50,000 - 60,000 units, and begin offering their Voltec propulsion systems in high end vehicles like the Cadillac Converj, likely increasing their annual production numbers to whatever levels the market can sustain.
As for what other configurations GM will offer with the Voltec propulsion system, I suspect a cross-over vehicle would be most likely, as they too command higher prices. A pick-up or SUV might also generate interest, provided they install four in-hub wheel motors and a larger internal combustion engine for carrying heavy loads and towing.
[Source: Press Release]
