Cadillac ELR Cold Weather Testing

 
Extreme winter testing for new GM EV
 
In order to make the grade and be sold in cold weather markets, a new vehicle needs to stand up to the harsh realities of winter, and that means snow, ice, sleet, freezing rain or a combination of those things on any given day. The Great White North can be very unforgiving on a “normal” automobile, not to mention a new EV like the Cadillac ELR.
 
The North American International Auto Show in Detroit was a coming out party for the newest member of the Cadillac family. And it was a success, as the ELR picked up the Eyes on Design Award for best production vehicle. Based on the Cadillac Converj Concept, the ELR is shapely in appearance both inside and out and designed to be driven. But how will it stand up in the cold?
 
Winter testing of the ELR took place in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where conditions are harsh. Fresh snow is always a bonus when putting a new vehicle through its paces and according to GM, a total of 100 mm provided the perfect backdrop.
 
“Being able to test the ELR in extreme road conditions, like those we experienced here in the U.P., allows us to provide a ride-and-handling character unlike any EV on the market today,” said Chris Thomason, ELR chief engineer. “During this latest test, the ELR continued to perform beyond our expectations.”
 
Items being tested included the steering system, tires, ABS, traction control, electronic stability and the Continuous Damping Control system. When combined with the HiPer Strut front suspension and watts link rear suspension, expectations are the ELR will provide drivers with a sporty drive and feel. The new Cadillac ELR is expected to go on sale in early 2014.
 
Read Article:
http://torontosun.autonet.ca/auto-news/automotive-industry-news/2013/02/12/cadillac-elr-gets-a-face-full-of-snow/