Opel, General Motor’s German subsidiary, takes electric vehicles full-size with its Flextreme sedan concept car on display at the Geneva Motor Show. Clearly designed for the European market, Opel says the Flextreme has a top speed in excess of 200km/h – that’s an electric vehicle performance car enthusiasts could love.
The five-door, four-seater is powered by GM’s E-REV electric system which will debut in the upcoming Ampera model. Unlike conventional hybrids, vehicle propulsion is provided at all times by electricity with a small 1.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine to generate electrical power when the lithium-ion battery pack is depleted.
Opel says the electric drive unit delivers torque of 370Nm and zero to 100km/h takes less than nine seconds. With the petrol powered generator seamlessly engaged to provide electrical power, the combined driving range for the Flextreme is more than 500kms.
Average fuel consumption is estimated at 1.6l/100kms and CO2 emissions should be less than 40g/km.
But the big news for the Flextreme is its size – at 4,762mm in length and offering a wheelbase of 2900mm, this electric vehicle is a genuine mid-to-large size sedan. It’s aerodynamic body shape contributes to its efficiency – the drag co-efficient is just 0.22.
At the front, the extreme aerodynamic design features a low bonnet line with a smooth, translucent lower panel and small air intake for the petrol engine. Opel says the Flextreme will meet upcoming European pedestrian safety regulations.
The roof features a cool air duct for the batteries and a glass panel which is adaptive – it lets in warm sunshine in winter and can be darkened to keep light out during summer heat.
Doors are rear hinged and there are no opening handles – they open via light sensors.
Overall, the Flextreme presents a bold, sporty look with swooping curves and a steeply-raked rear tailgate.
The 21-inch alloy wheels are narrow to reduce aerodynamic drag and are fitted with 195/45 low rolling resistance tyres.
