NAIAS Highlights: Concepts
GM Sabia by way of Brazil
Taking its name from a Brazilian bird, GM do Brasil's Sabia is described as a four-door utility coupe. It has a small carrying bed and is sized like a coupe, but has four doors and comfortably seats four passengers. At 4420 mm (174 in) long, the Sabia is about 0.15 m (0.5 ft) shorter than a Chevrolet Cavalier, but is taller at 1520 mm (60 in) and has 20-in wheels. The vehicle's seating is theatre style, with the rear passengers riding about 50 mm (2 in) higher than those in the front. Reverse-hinged doors for the rear passengers ease entries and exits, as does the lack of a B-pillar.
An angled gap behind the front fenders provides space for rear-facing cameras and eliminates the aerodynamic drag and noise associated with traditional rearview mirrors. The gap also incorporates an exhaust for engine-compartment air and rear-facing turn signals. Power is provided by a 2.2-L supercharged engine, and front-wheel drive allows a deeper-than-normal cargo bed.
According to David Rand, Design Director for GM do Brasil, the concept's development team worked toward a highly versatile vehicle, maximizing both passenger comfort and cargo space without compromising a compact and sleek design. "This is a combination of size and styling that youthful consumers are attracted to, not only here in Latin America, but in Europe and North America as well," said Rand.
The vehicle's designers at GM do Brasil's Design Center, located at Sao Caetano do Sul, are connected by a high-speed network with colleagues at other GM design centers around the world for close collaboration and sharing of ideas. The Brazilian facility has adapted many vehicle platforms that originated in Europe and North America for the Latin American market, including the Corsa station wagon and pickup and the recently launched Chevrolet Celta.
- Kevin Jost
