GM to Introduce Buick Riviera Global Concept at Shanghai Auto Show

General Motors’ Shanghai GM Chinese joint venture releases a photo and details of the new Buick Riviera global concept vehicle on the eve of the opening of the Shanghai auto show.

Developed at the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center in Shanghai, the concept combines a sleek, “flowing water” design with GMs’ plug-in hybrid-electric-vehicle propulsion system.

It is the fourth global concept vehicle to be developed at PATAC, a joint venture between GM and Shanghai Auto.

“The new Riviera offers a preview of Buick’s future design language,” Shanghai GM President Ye Yongming says in a statement. “By seamlessly integrating advanced technologies, flexible functions and contemporary aesthetics, the new Riviera heralds the start of a new chapter for the 110-year-old Buick brand.”

Ed Welburn, GM vice president-global design, says the “Riviera is a design study of the future expression of Buick design with its elegant athletic shape, sculptural beauty and precision execution. It is a great opportunity to share Buick's future design language and technology strategy.”

The Riviera concept’s dual-mode PHEV propulsion system enables the driver to operate the vehicle in full-electric “green” mode as well as with conventional power, Shanghai GM says.

The battery pack is recharged with a cable that connects through one of the front porthole styling points or by a sensory recharge system connected to the vehicle chassis.

Other features include intelligent 4-wheel steering system, electromagnetic suspension and air- spring suspension system.

The concept’s forward-looking active safety system incorporates 10 high-resolution cameras and 18 high-precision sensors for distance monitoring. Data gathered is integrated and projected in a holograph on the windshield.

Other safety systems include night-view assist, side blind-zone alert, lane-departure warning, full-speed-range adaptive cruise control, lane-change assist, parking assist, rear cross-traffic alert, autopilot and “transparent” A-pillars.

The body is trimmed in an Ice Celadon finish, reminiscent of jade. The interior trim employs sand-blasted aluminum alloy, lava-suede leather and ebony. Front floating seats are featured along with an adaptive seat system and noise-absorbing head restraint system.

The Shanghai auto show runs April 20-April 29 at the Shanghai New International Expo Center.