MPV version of the Volt presented in Beijing

Continuing its work of increasing fuel efficiency in its lineup General Motors (GM) will be presenting at this year’s Auto China motorshow an MPV concept vehicle based on the Chevrolet Volt, the all-electric vehicle set to arrive at global markets in 2011. The Volt MPV5 electric concept a five-passenger multi-purpose crossover that is able to show the potential of the Voltec propulsion system.

In terms of design the Volt MPV5 concept was developed and designed having in mind the necessary aerodynamics characteristics to improve the range and efficiency of the electric vehicle. To do so the Chevrolet concept has borrowed some of the design and aerodynamic features of the original Volt. The closed grille and aero-optimized lower air dam, the full-underbody belly pan, the rocker claddings, the creased tail lamps and the specially designed blades on the rear quarter all enhance the aerodynamics and fuel-efficiency of the Volt MPV5.

"The Volt MPV5 concept takes the efficient design of the Chevrolet Volt and adapts it to the family vehicle crossover segment. It's immediately recognizable as a true member of the Chevrolet family," said Bob Boniface, Director of GM North America Crossover Exterior Design.

Although the Volt MPV5 concept has a wheelbase that is only 15 mm longer than the one of the Chevrolet Volt, the body of the MPV concept is 181 mm longer (4,585 mm), 73 mm wider (1,871 mm) and 182 mm taller (1,612 mm) than the Volt, offering more space and comfort to the passengers.

The Voltec propulsion system that equips the Chevrolet Volt also features in the Volt MPV5 concept. The electric powertrain is powered by a 16-kWh T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack which enables the Volt MPV5 concept to use all of its potential within a range of 51.5 km, on pure electric propulsion. After the battery is depleted the Volt MPV5 is fitted with a 1.4-liter engine generator that carries on the battery charge and up to 482 km of electric propulsion.

"The Volt MPV5 concept demonstrates the flexibility of the Voltec propulsion system, which can produce enough electric power to propel a range of vehicles. from a compact sedan like the Volt to a crossover like the Volt MPV5 concept," said Doug Parks, Global Vehicle Line Executive and Global Vehicle Chief Engineer for Electric Vehicles at GM.