Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/2010/01/18/gm_cadillac_xts_platinum/

GM plumps for long-distance hybrid Cadillac

From concept to production by 2012

By Alun Taylor

Posted in Science, 18th January 2010 15:29 GMT

Leccy Tech General Motors (GM) has finally found a home for its dual-mode plug-in hybrid drivetrain, in the shape of a concept Cadillac.

Cadillac_XTS_01

GM's Cadillac XTS Platinum will go from concept to production in 2012

Unveiled at the ongoing Detroit Motor Show, the Cadillac XTS Platinum will form the basis of a very similar model that GM has promised will enter production during 2012.

Unlike existing hybrid systems used in, say, Toyota’s Prius, GM’s dual-mode plug-in hybrid drivetrain has been designed with prolonged electric-only travel and outright performance in mind – instead of simple fuel economy.

Grunt comes from a lithium-ion battery pack – instead of nickel metal hydride – that can be charged from the mains, GM said.

Cadillac_XTS_02

Electric-only drive will move the XTS for 20 miles

GM previously hoped to use the drivetrain in its Saturn Vue back in 2008 and later in a Buick SUV, but both projects have since fallen through.

In its current conceptual form, the Cadillac XTS Platinum couples a 3.5l petrol V6 engine with a two 74bhp (55kW) electric motors and an 8kWh battery pack. Careful driving should allow the car to cover 20 miles without using a single drop of unleaded, GM added.

A two-door Cadillac coupé based around the Chevrolet Volt’s drivetrain is also expected to appear in 2013. The Converj was displayed at 2009’s Detroit Motor Show and is known to be a favoured project of GM executive Bob Lutz.

GM_Converj

GM's Converj will hit showrooms in 2013

Register Hardware is keeping its figures crossed that both Cadillac cars make it to Blighty in right-hand setup. ®