Chevy to show the four cars that could save GM at Paris

Chevrolet will show four new models at the Paris Motor Show whose success could decide the future of parent-company GM over the next decade.

The big name of the four will be the new Volt plug-in hybrid, due on sale in Europe by 2010, possibly under the Vauxhall badge.

The four-seater Volt saloon is powered by electric motor, but can use a petrol engine to operate as a generator when the battery is depleted, allowing for a 40-mile range on all-electric power. A full charge from a household socket can take as little as three hours, says GM.

Another massive car for GM is the Cruze four-door saloon, which will comprise a budget saloon that should slot in underneath the new Vauxhall Insignia.

Equipped with a range of 1.6 or 1.8-litre petrol engines, or a common-rail 2.0-litre diesel, the Cruze will likely be promoted as a cheap, low-consumption saloon that undercuts the market leaders.

The Chevrolet Orlando seven-seat compact MPV is currently a concept, but is likely to go on sale in 2009, again offering a budget alternative.

The final car is the Chevrolet Camaro performance car, due to go ons ale in Europe in 2010 with a 400bhp, 6.2-litre V8 engine.

Chevrolet boosted British sales by 27.6 per cent in 2007, while 2008 sales are up 12 per cent compared to the same time in 2007.

With these four new cars, GM will be hoping to increase that figure much further in 2009 and 2010.

Top ten family saloons

Family cars - namely saloons - don´t need to merely be about practicality, interior space and running costs. Many are great to drive, good-looking and gadget-heavy.

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