Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept Embraces Chevy Volt Tech

With GM’s huge investment in its Voltec extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) technology, it’s a reasonable expectation that the technology will be used in other vehicles besides the Chevrolet Volt. In fact, an Opel/Vauxhall Ampera is already planned for the European market and the now cancelled Cadillac Converj was to have used Voltec technology. The latest application for the technology is in GM’s Opel Flextreme GT/E concept. .

The Flextreme GT/E uses the Volt’s 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine for range extension to allow travel beyond the approximate 40 miles provided by the 16 kWh, t-shaped lithium-ion battery pack located beneath the floor and rear seat. The small gasoline engine-generator starts up to supply electricity whenever the battery is depleted, providing over 300 miles of driving range before the plug-in battery pack is recharged or the car refueled. .

This five-door, four-seat coupe is a bit larger than the Volt or Ampera but still offers a 124 mph top speed and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in under nine seconds. Average fuel consumption is estimated at 147 mpg with CO2 emissions of less than 40 g/km.

The Flextreme GT/E has excellent aerodynamic efficiency with a drag coefficient of only 0.22. The reduced frontal area features a low hood line, an extended nose section, and wing-shaped LED headlamps. The trapezoidal grille includes a large Opel emblem that doubles as a socket for battery charging. The upper section of the grille admits sufficient cooling air so additional air intakes that would reduce aerodynamic efficiency are not needed. .

Minimum air disturbance also results from a low roof height and flat enclosed underbody. The relatively narrow 21 inch alloy wheels reduce air resistance and are fitted with low rolling resistance tires. Clear flush-mounted trim inserts also minimize air turbulence. At speeds above 31 mph, a vertical panel extends along the body from the air extraction slot behind each rear wheel-arch. These 350 mm-long side spoilers guide high-speed airflow around the rear corners to reduce drag producing turbulence behind the car. Exterior mirrors are replaced by small camera pods in the base of the A-pillars to additionally reduce drag.

Weight reduction also contributes to reduced energy consumption and increased driving range. A 40 percent weight savings results from the use of lightweight carbon composite outer panels, polycarbonate windows, and aluminum alloy structural components. .