GM Unveils Riviera Concept in Shanghai

It’s always fun to check out new concept vehicles and the Buick brand is no exception.

Buick provided a peek into its future design aesthetics and strategy during the world premiere of the elegantly smooth and sweeping Riviera concept vehicle which was unveiled at Auto Shanghai on April 4, 2013.

The Riviera concept’s design was inspired by the Chinese phrase “The greatest good is like water.” Even while idle, the car’s shape and lines flow as effortlessly as a running river. The Riviera integrates a design of elegance, power, and speed with the best in engineering, function, and advanced plug-in hybrid technology.

The Riviera concept’s signature Buick “sweep spear” creates a three-dimensional sensation resembling ocean waves briefly standing still. This is accentuated by gull-wing doors and a finish of ice celadon. The Riviera concept also features a new waterfall grille and daytime running lights shaped like wings that will become a staple of future Buick design.

The Riviera, the fourth concept project developed cooperatively by Shanghai General Motors (GM) and Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC), both GM joint ventures, brings together such striking design with the most advanced technology, namely GM’s new wireless plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (W-PHEV) propulsion system. Equipped with Buick Intelligence Performance (BIP) technology, the Riviera is capable of high performance handling in electric mode through an electromagnetic suspension system, four-wheel steering, and an advanced air spring package. The Riviera concept car can be charged via cable or through a panel on the chassis that enables wireless recharging.

The Buick Riviera concept’s active safety system collects traffic information via high-resolution cameras and sensors. The synthesized information is displayed as a holographic image that appears on the windshield. The concept car also features several driver-aid functions such as blind-spot alerts, and assist features covering lane changes, parking, and night vision.

Amid such innovation, Riviera drivers are surrounded by the subtle luxury of Buick’s 360-degree integrated design that includes the use of sumptuous colors and shades that create a sleek, dynamic environment. The steering wheel is stylish, taut, and features controls that are easy to use yet unobtrusive. Drivers and passengers alike experience openness comfort and safety in the Riviera’s front floating seats, adaptive seating configuration, and the car’s head restraint system technology that absorbs noise.

The Buick display at Auto Shanghai 2013 will include the Riviera concept vehicle and other Buick models from April 20-29, 2013.

General Motors was founded by Flint, Michigan, horse-drawn vehicle manufacturer William “Billy” Durant in 1908, and originally held only the Buick Motor Company. Today, GM is a worldwide company and enjoys a significant presence in China. GM’s 55,000 employees in China produce a broad lineup of cars and commercial automobiles under brands such as Cadillac, Opel, and Wuling that is unrivalled by any other automaker in China. GM sold over 2.8 million vehicles in China in 2012 and has led all global automakers in sales in the Chinese market for eight years in a row.

Learn more about GM’s operations in China at GM Media Online.