On Tuesday, Buick not only debuted the rather handsome Enspire electric SUV concept, but it also revealed two production cars. The Velite 6 plug-in hybrid and Velite 6 EV both debuted in China.
However, the Velite 6 could find its way out of China and into global markets. Whether that means the car itself or in powertrain only isn’t clear yet.
GM Authority reached out to Buick for additional information on the Velite 6, and in our inquiry, we asked if the vehicles were global models, or if they’re simply meant for China and Buick’s “Buick Blue” strategy.
“Somewhere in the middle,” Buick told us.
That’s neither a confirmation that other markets will see the Velite 6 nor a denial. It leads us to believe the Velite 6 plug-in’s powertrain could more than likely power a Buick plug-in for North America.
The brand added, “It’s worth noting while the propulsion is unique versus existing electric [vehicles], the Velite 6 takes advantage of the expertise of the engineering team responsible for developing our other PHEVs, EREVs and EVs.”
Sounds like Volt and Bolt EV engineers had a hand in the Velite 6 to us. The Velite 6 plug-in’s powertrain appears identical to the Chevrolet Volt on paper, though Buick assured us it shares no relation to any GM vehicle sold in the United States. Providing power are two AC permanent-magnet synchronous motors with a lithium-ion battery paired with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine. It’s total range, when combining battery and engine power, sits at 435 miles.
We know GM has 20 new electric cars upcoming by 2023, though we haven’t heard much about plug-in hybrids. We may not see the Velite 6’s face in North America, but the mechanicals sure sound like they could find their way to a future Buick PHEV.
Comments
The liftback Volt is based on the Cruze and the Cruze offers a hatchback trim…That’s what this most likely is which isn’t a bad thing especially since GM upgraded the powertrain…
Buick is an ideal home for white space EV models. Bolt is a failure, the uncool EV, and it seems that consumer aren’t confident buying Chevrolet for new technology.
Velite 6, like Encore, will help Buick reorient it’s image. Buick Blue autos are a great way for the brand to begin a fresh start. This is especially true with the death of sedans in that these products give Buick a niche separate from GMC.