What is it?
The Provoq is a fuel-cell powered car-based midsized SUV that uses GM's fifth generation fuel cell. A 70 kW electric motor powers the front wheels and two 30 kW motors power the rear wheels. The fuel cell is smaller than previous versions. GM says it can start the vehicle at -13º F. It stores 6 kilograms of compressed hydrogen in two tanks below the rear seat and the cargo area for a range GM claims will be more than 300 miles.
What is new or notable?
This is the first time GM has shown a fuel-cell or electric vehicle from its Cadillac brand.
CR's Take: Looking past the E-Flex architecture, the Provoq is a precursor to the CTS-based upscale compact SUV, which is slated for 2010. As such, it will join a growing class that includes the BMW X3, Acura RDX, Infiniti EX35 and the newly-introduced Mercedes-Benz GLK. Will Audi show the Q5 soon? The Volvo XC60, yet another upscale small SUV, will debut in Geneva soon.
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