2004 Buick Velite Concept

(from General Motors Press Release) BUICK’S POPULAR VELITE CONCEPT PAVED THE WAY FOR CURRENT PRODUCT DESIGN

NEW YORK – “Restrained extravagance” were the words that described the landmark Buick Velite concept nearly four years ago and they still apply today. With a sweeping, stylized exterior and a globally influenced passenger compartment, the Velite – a four-seat convertible – continues to characterize Buick vehicles of today.

The Velite’s design influence can be seen in current production vehicles in North America, including the new Enclave, Lucerne and LaCrosse. Cues such as the vertical waterfall grille, portholes, subtle use of chrome and other rich materials continue to influence Buick’s current product renaissance and growth into a premium, international brand.

Named for an elite class of quick-moving soldiers in Napoleon’s army, the Velite was designed at GM’s Advanced Studio in Warren, Mich., and assembled at renowned coachbuilder Stile Bertone’s studio in Italy. It has athletic proportions and an aggressive stance that emphasize a bold, contemporary design, with identifiable heritage cues worn with an international flair and understated elegance.

Romantic environment
Contemporary design also is reflected in the Velite’s passenger compartment, which uses sumptuous materials and the warm glow of indirect lighting to harmonize with the vehicle’s exterior design voice. It’s a tangible expression of a jazz lounge atmosphere, including an inviting rear seat that wraps around the interior like a comfortable lounge loveseat. Rear HVAC controls allow rear-seat passengers to adjust the climate to suit their moods.

Power to move the Velite comes from Buick’s experimental, 3.6L DOHC, twin-turbocharged and intercooled global V-6 engine. The engine features fuel-saving variable valve timing technology, which is available on some of GM’s four-, five-, six- and eight-cylinder engines. Through the use of variable engine valve timing, valve lift and duration is continuously varied to improve fuel economy, horsepower and torque, while reducing emissions.

The V-6 is backed by a Hydra-Matic 6L80-E six-speed, rear-wheel-drive automatic transmission equipped with manual tap-shift gear selection. A pair of large, oval exhaust outlets provides an aural reminder that performance is very much a part of the vehicle’s character.

© Source: seriouswheels
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