Likewise General Motors, the urban drivers wonders if the next big thing in the auto industry is very small. And to no surprise the wonder becomes a reality making you awestruck.
The automaker unveiled a trio that packs a lot of personality and style per mile. Company displayed its tiny concept on 3 April before the New York International Auto Show (6-15 April) got started.
GM said the cars, while unlikely to be sold in the U.S. any time soon, are intended to appeal to young drivers in big cities around the world.
Demand for large SUVs has softened, while U.S. consumers have shown more interest in smaller, fuel-efficient vehicles. More stringent government fuel economy requirements could also be on the way. Those small cars typically cost less than $15,000.
GM wants “to be competitive in that part of the market which they think is growing,” Libby said. He also said industry research shows buyers of very small cars tend to upgrade to larger models while remaining loyal to their first brand.
The new concept vehicles viz. the Chevrolet Beat, Groove and Trax are designed at a South Korean studio specializing in small cars. The company built the Groove and Trax in Warren, Mich., and the Beat in India.
“The design team was so enthused about being given the assignment to develop the perfect small car for urban commuters that they created not one, but three,” said Ed Welburn, vice president of GM Global Design.
The Beat
Front-wheel-drive three-door hatchback powered by a 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an automatic transmission. Its name comes from a premium sound system.
The retro-styled Groove, which GM says is “too tough-looking to be cute,” has an upright windshield and a short hood. It runs on a 1-liter diesel engine.
The Trax
Looks like a miniature SUV, the car is described as an “urban crossover” vehicle good for off-road driving or city streets. It has a 1-liter gasoline engine.
GM would like to take a sound decision regarding the production of its mini cars. Therefore, it invites vote online from its prospective customers for their favorite concept at their site.