7.1.2002
GM unveils hot new concept cars at NAIAS

GM unveiled its new trio of concept cars at the 2002 NAIAS on Sunday. The new concept cars include the Chevrolet Bel Air, Pontiac Roadster and Cadillac Cien.

GM unveiled its new trio of concept cars at the 2002 NAIAS on Sunday. The new concept cars include the Chevrolet Bel Air, Pontiac Roadster and Cadillac Cien. "GM has had success in recent years with its concept cars on the auto show circuit," said Robert Lutz, GM vice chairman of product development and chairman of GM North America. "We've been able to bring some of them to production, quickly, with no compromises. This new trio of cars, whether they reach production or not, demonstrates our commitment to building both concept and production cars and trucks that make a compelling, emotional connection to people at first sight."

The two-door Bel Air concept celebrates an American icon in a manner reminiscent of the 1950s originals - with style, performance and an exciting new powerplant, a Vortec 3500 turbocharged five-cylinder concept engine based on the highly regarded inline engine family that debuted in GM's midsize sport utility vehicles. The all-aluminum engine delivers up to 315 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque.

The rear-drive Bel Air concept was inspired by several interior design cues from its 1950s predecessor. The simple, elegant passenger compartment features a twin-element instrument panel, steering column-mounted gearshift and bench seats.