The point which GM is stressing with this concept is that not all hybrid vehicles are 22nd-century, tear-drop shaped vehicles,

The Astra Diesel Hybrid is the perfect way of showing that the idea of 'hybrid' can be built around a previously existing car. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

something that is also being demonstrated with the second wave of gasoline-electric hybrids. Quirky cars like the original Toyota Prius and the Honda Insight are yielding to more conventional ones like the latest Toyota Prius, and Honda Accord Hybrid and Ford Escape Hybrid.

The Opel Astra Diesel Hybrid Concept, a vehicle seemingly out of place amongst the glitz and glamour of high-power performance and luxury vehicles, is a reminder that internationally, General Motors is committed to R&D in hybrid technology.

Though there aren't any plans to sell the Astra in North America (with the exception of Mexico and Latin America), the Astra Diesel Hybrid is the perfect way of showing that the idea of 'hybrid' can be built around a previously existing car, rather than having a car developed around the hybrid powertrain - a big step forward for GM and all its divisions across the globe.

Specifications:

• Body Type: 3-door hatchback
• Layout: Front engine, FWD
• Main Engine: 125 hp, 206 lb-ft of torque, 1.7L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4, turbodiesel
• Electric Engine: 40 hp, DC-Current and 54 hp, DC-Current
• Combined Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Horsepower (estimated): 219 hp
• Transmission: Electrically variable gearbox
• Dimensions (length/width/height): 4,290 / 1,729 / 1,433 mm (168.9 / 68.1 / 56.4 in)
• Acceleration (0-100 km/h): under 8 seconds
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Fuel Economy (combined city/hwy): less than 4.0 L/100 km
• Web Site: www.opel.com

Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.