With this model Opel wants to show the world that with the application of GM’s extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) technology, mid-size vehicles can run efficiently on electricity similar to compact cars like the upcoming Ampera, the European cousin of the Chevrolet Volt.
With a sweeping roof-line and an aggressive nose, the Flextreme has been specifically designed to achieve a projected drag co-efficient of just 0.22 which makes it clock 124-mph. Despite its great numbers and figures, a battery-powered driving range of up to 37 miles and a maximum range of more than 311 miles is also available. Average gasoline fuel consumption is a decent 147 mpg for US roads with carbon emissions under 40 g/km. With a power delivery of 120 kW and a torque of 273 lb-ft,the pick-up speed is 100 km/h in less than 9 secs. The 4-cylinder,1.4-liter engine powers a generator with 53 kW peak output.
The Opel Flextreme is considerably longer than usual at a length of about 4.7-meters, with variation in its door design and style. The Flextreme’s wheels are powered at all times by electricity. For a regular journey of up to 60 km, energy is supplied by a 16 kWh T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack under the floor and rear seat. The car comes equipped with an on-board 3.3 kW charger, with a full recharge at a 230V outlet taking less than 3 hours.
There are a series of measures employed that help optimize airflow management and reduce air turbulence. Exterior front door mirrors are replaced by small camera pods in the base of the A-pillars. The 21-inch alloy wheels are relatively narrow, to allow wind resistance and are fitted with 195/45 low rolling resistance tires. The minimal front air intake improves airflow around the nose of the car and the underbody sweeps up, venturi-like, at the rear to further reduce drag. The active shape fitting potential is being explored. At 50 km/h and above speeds, 350 mm-long side spoilers extend along the body from the air extraction slot to guide high-speed airflow behind each rear wheel-arch, thereby reducing the amount of turbulence.
Almost 40% of the car weight has been brought down tremendously by the use of lightweight carbon composite outer panels, polycarbonate window glazing and aluminum alloy structural components thereby reducing energy consumption and increasing drive range. Door handles have been replaced by light sensors that trigger open the doors when covered by the hand of the driver or passenger.
source: nitrobahn
