Chevy S3X Approved for Production

Press Release

Athletic and appealing

Just as the Kalos heralded the establishment of GM Daewoo Auto & Technology Co. (GM DAT) in South Korea only two years ago, so the Chevrolet S3X show car rings in a new era for Chevrolet in Europe, with new products designed, engineered and manufactured in South Korea. Featuring environmentally friendly hybrid technology, the S3X gives a glimpse into potential future propulsion systems.

The hybrid powertrain in the S3X show car is a belt alternator starter system (BAS). The system was developed by GM and adapted by GM Daewoo engineers to provide improved fuel economy in stop-and-go-driving by shutting the engine off at idle and enabling early fuel cutoff to the engine during decelerations. The relatively simple and affordable system replaces the conventional alternator with a combined alternator/starter and adds a 42-volt NIMH-storage battery, assisting the existing 12-volt electrical system.

Regenerative braking and optimized charging further improve fuel economy while all vehicle accessories and passenger comfort systems are maintained during the periods when the engine is temporarily shut off. Compared to conventional powertrains, the 'mild' hybrid set-up will have the potential to reduce fuel consumption by up to 12 per cent. GM will introduce BAS hybrid systems on high- volume SUVs and cars in the next three years.

When the production version is launched in 2006, the S3X will be the first diesel-powered Chevrolet in Europe. It will also be the first vehicle in the line-up to be developed entirely by GM DAT. The S3X also offers a preview of possible styling cues for future Chevrolet models. The eye-catching SUV (length/width/height: 4,639/1,848/1,722 mm) features powerfully flared wheel arches filled by large 20-inch wheels, striking metal inserts in the front and rear bumpers, horizontal vents in the wings and jewel-like front headlamps in which the light is diverted by cylindrical prisms. Whether open or closed, the large, louvered glass roof creates a light, roomy atmosphere inside the S3X.

In addition, the Chevrolet show car is very practical: The rear window can be opened separately to make the luggage compartment readily accessible without needing to open the rear flap.

Despite its compact size, the S3X study has room for three rows of seats - and thus seven passengers - thanks to its long wheelbase of around 2.70 metres. The design of the interior is dominated by the unusual combination of real wood and metal. The infotainment system on board the Chevrolet S3X includes a DVD-based navigation system linked to an 18cm monitor.