Cadillac ELR Engine Detailed as More Powerful Volt Motor
We were already well aware that the Cadillac ELR would make its production debut next year as a 2014 model, but details on the Chevrolet Volt-based Cadillac have been sparse.
It was originally believed that the ELR would use the Voltec extended-range setup sourced directly from the Volt, but now rumor has it that GM will swap the 1.4-liter, naturally aspirated engine in favor of an Opel-developed Ecotec MGE powerplant. The reason being is that the ELR will undoubtedly pack on some extra pounds in order to reach the sort of luxury expected from a Cadillac model – compared to the Volt – and as such, would benefit from more performance under the hood.
The Ecotec MGE is an all-new powerplant and will become the foundation for a future family of engines for GM vehicles, replacing most of its current Family 1 engines. The MGE block is engineered to expand up to 2.0-liters in displcement, but chances are the ELR will see a 1.8-liter under the hood when it’s produced. We’re still not entirely convinced that GM won’t also employ the use of a turbocharger.
Another issue that Cadillac has to work through in building the Volt-based ELR is to ensure that its fuel efficiency and electric range is respectable despite the additional weight added to the model. For 2013, Chevy has already bumped up the Volt’s 16 kWh battery to a 16.5 kWh pack, which also increased its electric range to 38 miles. That means the ELR could see additional storage capacity, but that could mean longer charge times and even more weight with higher-capacity batteries.
The one thing GM has going for it is that the ELR as a Cadillac model can demand a Cadillac price. Whether or not the consumers will be willing to pay it will be another question.
[Source: Car and Driver]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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They can't give the volt's away around here. Mainly due to the price. If the Cadillac demands a higher price, which is understandable, then they better get the volt to a reasonable price first. My opinion, the volt should have a starting price somewhere around $ 28,000.00 then add in some government assisance. The ELR should start around. $ 40,000.00
Why should a volt be cheaper than a PRIUS a fully loaded PRIUS cost $32-33k With the government rebates and state rebates the volt is cheaper. If I drove a Prius in DC area it would cost me 2k a year in gas thats 10k in 5 years the volt would use me none. Also a car as fast as the Volt would use $15k in years. Americans always look at purchase price not how much it cost to own. Not smart. Volt has no oil changes no break pad wear if you use it in REGEN mode. So maintains costs save you another few thousand. The math states the Volt is much more of a bargain than even the most fuel efficient car on the market. Also the volt drives like a BMW is fast likea mustang. People dont understand how amazing the volt really is. I am going to get one after driving it and how fast it is. I could never drivea combustion engine again.