Re: W.Pa. ‘gearhead’ styles for GM – ATS Rumor

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Nice local boy makes good article here about GM Designer Dave Ross: W.Pa. ‘gearhead’ styles for GM – Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

My favorite part:

“I recently took a tour of the Warren design center with (GM vice president, Global Design) Ed Welburn, and we saw everything out through 2014,” said John Wolkonowicz, auto analyst at IHS Global Insight in Lexington, Mass. “GM is doing absolutely fantastic design work.”

Wolkonowicz signaled out one model of the 2013 model year Cadillac he and his IHS colleagues have dubbed the ATS. Due out in mid-2012, the Cadillac will be the size of a BMW 3-series, and styled and given the performance to compete with that vehicle, acknowledged as the world’s best selling luxury car.

I am (as always) ready for the ATS to be out now now now, but good to hear more rumors on when it actually WILL arrive.  Previously we thought the ATS would arrive in 2012 or 2013, so this is right in line.

Please see our ATS / Alpha coverage.

Cadillac has not said the vehicle would be called the ATS yet, but the press has been using that as a likely name.  The new 270hp  3L (LF1) premium DI V6 seems a natural powerplant for the ATS, but I would also like to see an up-power option.

CTS 3L Direct Injection V6

CTS 3L Direct Injection V6

Original Article referenced: W.Pa. ‘gearhead’ styles for GM – Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Caddyinfo Twitter Updates for 2009-12-01

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Cadillac Converj – is it a Cadillac Volt?

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Recently I posted a Cadillac Converj Catchup article for those of you not keeping up with developments.  Also, you can check the index for any articles that address Converj here.  The Converj will use a similar Voltec powertrain, (formerly knows as E-flex), and base chassis as the upcoming Chevrolet Volt, but will be specified, built, and tuned for Luxury Performance as a Cadillac.

We know that the Converj will look like this on the outside:

Cadillac Converj Concept Introduction at 2009 NAIAS

Bob Lutz with Cadillac Converj Prototype

And it should be noted that this design has proven very popular as a path for Cadillac, so we may see the same design influences on other models.

But what about underneath the skin? Here is the Voltec Powertrain that is being pioneered on the Chevrolet Volt and will be featured in a tuned, Luxury Performance variant in the upcoming Cadillac Converj:

Cadillac Converj Chassis & Powertrain

Voltec Chassis & Powertrain

So is the Converj just a Cadillac version of the Volt? Yes and no.

  • They will share the Voltec powertrain. They will both be extended range electric vehicles.
  • The Converj may or may not use the same engine as the Volt for extended range operation — the Converj may get a more premium power unit.
  • The Converj may carry more battery reserves than the Volt, and have a longer electric-only range.
  • The Converj may be tuned electronically to be a more sporting performer than the Volt.
  • Finally, the interior appointments and standard equipment level for the Converj will mirror the accoutrements that Cadillac owners have come to expect.

It will be the Cadillac of Extended Range Electric Vehicles.