Production Volt Model (!)

[pow]

http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/12/12/vo...tudio-and-gm-w/

Scroll down to watch the YouTube video...

On Monday, we were able to see the same front corner of the full sized clay model that's in the teaser shot at the top of this post. The rest of the car was covered up. We were also shown a one-third scale model in the wind tunnel that was covered in duct tape to obscure details. Nonetheless some general assessments can be made about the styling direction from various hints around the design studio.

Clearly the front of the Volt had to change. Looking at the car in plan view (the view looking down from above), the concept was almost flat across. Not good. A more parabolic shape was needed to allow air to flow smoothly around the sides of the car without separating from the body (which causes turbulence). The headlights are now flush with the body rather than being set back as they are on the concept (as you can see in the gallery below). The main twin port grille is blocked off and engine compartment airflow comes from below the bumper. The car will have a full belly pan to manage airflow under the car.

From the start, Boniface and his team generated a list of design themes that characterized the Volt and needed to be maintained in order for the production model to be recognizable as a Volt. Chief among these was greenhouse and side glass look as well as the tail treatment. The clay models in the studio were kept covered aside from that one corner that's visible in the teaser. In spite of that, the profile of the car was clearly visible and some things could be gleaned from that.

The line from the roof to the rear deck is much like the concept. The base of the windshield has moved forward providing more rake to the glass. It appears the center line of the front axle has moved back a bit allowing for more front overhang while the front corners are swept back to provide better airflow as well as helping to meet European pedestrian safety standards. The other main visual difference that was apparent from hints around the studio was a reduction of the Coke bottle effect along the sides. While the concept had prominently flared fenders, this will be toned down significantly to help keep the airflow attached to the sides. One other design element that will be prominently maintained on the sides is the plug ports since this is such an important part of what this car is all about.

While side glass look is expected to be maintained, the design team isn't revealing exactly how they will manage it. Boniface also declined to say what kinds of materials would be used to construct the body and structure of the Volt. We won't be seeing anything of the production Volt at the Detroit Auto Show. But if what we're hearing from the team proves accurate, GM is on track to have those first test mules running early in the year and GM has indicated we'll have a chance to try them out in the spring.

http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/12/12/vo...tudio-and-gm-w/

Edited December 16, 2007 by empowah

[Northstar]

Looks good. It will be interesting to see how they make the windows roll down if the side glass is really going to be kept the same.

[pow]

Looks good. It will be interesting to see how they make the windows roll down if the side glass is really going to be kept the same.

Perhaps it'll be something like Audi R8's "sideblade," except transparent and in a different location. Instead of an outer door skin made entirely out of sheetmetal, maybe the upper 1/4 piece will be frosted, textured, smoked, or clear plastic, allowing you peer into some of the door components. Think old "see-thru" Nokia phone, old Volvo S40, or Apple G5. Maybe it can be lit and "glow" from within.

Maybe by 2020 it'll be interactive...

What I'd really like to see in the Volt is an iPhone-like graphics/interface, adapted for car use. Apple + Volt > Microsoft + Ford SYNC

Edited December 16, 2007 by empowah

[ocnblu]

After seeing the rendering, I feared for it, but it looks good in the video. I retract my pantyhose statement.

[PurdueGuy]

sweet.

[siegen]

The body will be made out of wood and styrofoam??

[Windy-57]

Yeah, I can't wait to see this. Looks like the big lower air dam will keep it from looking too much like a Saab.

[NOS2006]

Wow, the front corner of the clay Volt looks 10x better than the concept Volt.. and I really like the concept Volt.

[-Camaro-]

I still say the lights are TLish...