New General Motors Holden EN-V Xiao unveiled for World Expo in Shanghai

• AAP
• From: AAP
• March 26, 2010 3:44PM

Futuristic: General Motors and Shanghai Automotive Industry have unveiled the EN-V electri cars. The Xiao (Laugh) model (pictured) was unveiled today in Shanghai alongside Jiao (Pride) and Maio (Magic). Source: Supplied

HOLDEN has unveiled a radical two-wheel, pod-like vehicle that drives itself and can be recharged on a domestic power point.

The Xiao is one of three models of the EN-V series developed by global auto giant General Motors, using its different design studios around the world.

The cars were unveiled this week and will go on display at the World Expo in Shanghai from May to October.

The Xiao is constructed from carbon fibre, is powered by electric motors in each wheel and can be charged at a domestic power point.

It can carry two passengers with a range of at least 40km on each charge.

Holden design director Tony Stolfo said a number of the company's young designers worked on the project over the past 15 months.

“This work has really broken the mould of the projects we undertake within the Holden design studio,'' Mr Stolfo said.

“The fact that our young designers were able to run with this project and develop it to such a high level really speaks volumes for the advanced design capabilities within Australia.

“It has meant moving away from designing the traditional elements of a motor vehicle to develop new themes and technologies that might some day define the way we live our lives.

“Much of what we have learned during this project will help us in our ongoing efforts to meet the many transport challenges associated with a growing population.''

Global positioning technology combined with vehicle-to-vehicle communications and distance-sensing systems allow the Xiao to be driven by the occupant or by an on-board computer system.

The car is designed to reduce traffic congestion by automatically selecting the fastest route based on real-time traffic information.

The concept also uses wireless technology to allow drivers and occupants to communicate with other commuters while in transit.

It has sensor and camera systems so it can react quickly to obstacles or changes in driving conditions, improving pedestrian safety.

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