Cadillac finally revealed the ELR coupe to the world yesterday and as expected, it hasn't really diverged much from the original plan. It looks almost exactly like the original and stunning Converj concept from 2009 although the wheelbase and track have grown ever so slightly. 

Contrary to some wild and unfounded speculation last spring it also doesn't have a new powertrain or 2.0-liter turbocharged range extender. https://plus.google.com/u/0/114133424228405038490/posts/3vNw81KUr3T

In fact, the hardware bits are essentially identical to the slightly updated hardware that debuted in the Volt last summer including the revised battery chemistry that upped the capacity from 16 to 16.5 kWh. However, all the expected amenities that make this a Cadillac including the 20-inch wheels, mean this car weighs 300 pounds more than a Volt. In order to provide the performance boost people expect from a Cadillac and still maintain the electric range they would want from this type of car, the engineers took advantage of the real world experience they have gained with the Volt over the past 2.5 years.

The traction motor has been recalibrated to provide some extra output, now 117-135 kW depending on the mode the driver selects including the available sport setting. Now that the GM has more confidence in the durability of its battery system, the ELR is now also using more of the available capacity to retain a 35 mile electric driving range. In fact, I would be surprised if GM doesn't make those latter adjustments to the 2014 Volt software to boost it's range by a few more miles. 

One other aspect that is exclusive to the Cadillac is Regen on Demand. Most cars in this segment with automatic transmissions have steering wheel mounted paddle shifters that the driver can tap to downshift and get some extra engine braking going into corners or downhill. With its single speed gearbox, this obviously isn't an option on the ELR. However,tapping its paddles allows the driver to get some short pulses of regenerative braking when desired, providing a similar effect to quick downshift without touching the brake pedal.

Definitely a rather nifty touch although for a likely price of $65-70,000 such details are needed. #NAIAS