Introduing The Opel Flextreme GT/E Extended Range Electric Vehicle

Opel Flextreme Concept








This is a concept car that will be debuted at the Geneva Auto Show. Let's hope that Opel fast tracks this vehicle from concept to elimination.

From Green Car Congress:

Opel will unveil the Flextreme GT/E mid-size concept car at the 80^th Geneva Motor Show (4-14 March). The 4.7-meter long Flextreme GT/E concept illustrates the application of GM’s extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) technology to large or mid-size vehicles, as well as compact cars such as the upcoming Ampera, the European cousin of the Chevrolet Volt. (Earlier post.)

Despite its greater size and a maximum speed of more than 200 km/h (124 mph), the Flextreme GT/E is projected to offer performance similar to that of the Ampera: a battery-powered driving range of up to 60 km (37 miles) and a total range of more than 500 km (311 miles). Average gasoline fuel consumption is estimated at 1.6 L/100 km (147 mpg US), with CO₂ emissions of less than 40 g/km.

The wheels of the Flextreme GT/E are powered at all times by electricity. For typical journeys up to 60 km, energy is supplied by a 16 kWh T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack located under the floor and rear seat.

Nominal voltage of the pack is 350V, and the vehicle has an on-board 3.3 kW charger. Full recharge at a 230V outlet will take less than 3 hours.

The electric drive unit delivers 120 kW of peak power, with 370 N·m (273 lb-ft) of torque. Projected zero to 100 km/h acceleration is less than nine seconds. The 4-cylinder, 1.4-liter engine powers a generator with 53 kW peak output.

The design enables the Flextreme GT/E to achieve a projected drag co-efficient of 0.22. A series of measures optimize airflow management. The 21-inch alloy wheels are relatively narrow, to reduce wind resistance, and fitted with 195/45, low rolling resistance tires. Clear, flush-mounted trim inserts also minimize air turbulence.

The minimal front intake improves airflow around the nose of the car and the underbody sweeps up, venturi-like, at the rear to further reduce drag.

The Flextreme GT/E also explores the potential for active shape shifting. At speeds above 50 km/h, 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 of the car, further reducing the amount of turbulence.

Mass reduction measures for the body include the use of lightweight, carbon composite outer panels, polycarbonate window glazing and aluminum alloy structural components. Compared to conventional materials, these offer a 40% weight saving which further contributes to reduced energy consumption and an increased driving range.