First unveiled at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the seemingly futuristic Cadillac Converj is now well on its way to production. According to a report in The Detroit News, the Volt-like plug-in hybrid, has been given the green light, but won’t be offered for several more years.
Similar in both look and size to the Cadillac CTS Coupe, the Converj would use a similar plug-in hybrid electric system as found in the upcoming Chevrolet Volt, although presumably with a focus more on power.
By adding an extra PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) to the GM lineup, it would allow for lower cost per unit production of the expensive hybrid system parts – like the lithium-ion batteries. Having a Cadillac PHEV model also makes sense as it will be easier for GM to recoup the cost of the expensive hybrid system in a high-dollar premium vehicle.
Cadillac already sells a hybrid version of the Escalade, but a sporty PHEV luxury coupe would certainly help in creating the sort of brand image that GM has been seeking for Cadillac.
[Source: The Detroit News]