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| 2014Hybrid.Com |
The 2014 Cadillac Provoq uses the same eFlex architecture that was rolled out in early 2009 with the Chevy Volt. Actually, GM has been talking for many years about a plug-and-play vehicle architecture that can work with any power system or fuel source. GM uses this iteration as a platform for its fifth-generation fuel cell stacks, which the company says are half the size of its predecessor, but more powerful. The vehicle stores its hydrogen in two 10,000-psi composite fuel tanks mounted under the cargo floor—and its electricity in a lithium ion battery pack mounted under the rear seat. The two hydrogen tanks provide 280 miles of mobility, with the batteries providing 20 more miles of driving.
One charging port isn’t enough for its plug-in capabilities. The 2014 Provoq has His and Hers, left- and right-hand inserts incorporated into the front fender vents. A 70-kW motor is posted up front and two 40-kW motors are tucked in the rear wheel hubs.
In addition to the juice running in and out of the lithium batteries, capable of storing 9kWh of energy, solar panel integrated in the roof provide help to power onboard accessories and lights.
That’s not all. This 2014 SUV—which seats five and incorporates the “comfort, convenience and infotainment features Cadillac customers seek,” according to the press release—is aerodynamic. The drag on the massive 2014 Provoq is mitigated by front grille louvers that close at highway speeds, and open back up again at low speeds to cool the fuel stack. Other tricks to reduce air resistance are a sloping roofline, low-drag roof rack, an underbody cover, and even cute little tail fins. Twenty-one-inch wheels are covered in custom Michelin “Green-X” low rolling resistance tires.
The 2014 Provoq is obviously being used as a chance for GM to show off all its cute ideas—and as such, shouldn’t be taken too seriously by green-leaning car shoppers. Unless you want to think of the use of recyclable soy-based material in the2014 Provoq’s interior as anything but a coy act of provocation—considering GM’s record on fuel efficiency and the environment.