DELHI MOTOR SHOW: Chev's Aussie Adra

General Motors has used today’s New Delhi motor show to reveal what it describes a “global compact SUV concept” dubbed the Chevrolet Adra, which was developed in collaboration with Holden’s design team in Port Melbourne.

GM said the show car “debuts GM India’s design and engineering talent while demonstrating Holden’s Global Design Centre’s ongoing role as a regional centre of excellence”.

The Adra concept, which is believed to be underpinned by GM’s Gamma II small-car platform that forms the basis of global models like the Barina/Aveo, Barina Spark, Trax and Mokka, was conceived, designed and developed by GM India.

As such, it is the first concept car created by General Motors Technical Centre India (GMTC-I) specifically for the emerging Indian market.

However, the pint-size crossover’s development was supported by Holden, which was responsible for the construction and fabrication of the show car and is one of only two design centres in the GM world with this capability.

“Traditionally, work that took place in Australia would be seen on Australian roads. That’s no longer how we operate,” said Executive Director GMIO Design, Mike Simcoe, underlining the ongoing role of Holden’s Victorian design studio beyond the company’s cessation of Australian manufacturing in 2017.

“Today, GM designers work on global programs, the majority of which are for international markets and Adra is a perfect example of this.

“The concept clearly showcases GM India’s impressive creative design talent and strong understanding of this emerging market.

“And Holden’s design capabilities are recognised worldwide. They have a reputation for being a mature and highly experienced design centre with incredible scope including creative design, clay modelling, animation, colour and trim and fabrication.

“The end result is a show car that is sure to impress the Indian public and one that GM India should be incredibly proud.”

Holden is also reported to have designed at least one other global concept car, which is expected to emerge at the New York motor show in April.

Although it’s described as a global SUV concept, GM says the Adra concept is “designed to meet the unique needs of the Indian consumer and fulfil the demands of (the) next-generation car buyer.

“With all the benefits of a traditional SUV in a small and affordable vehicle, Adra boasts stunning design, all-round visibility, high ground clearance, generous interior space and emotional appeal.”

The production version is expected to become a direct rival for the Ford EcoSport in India but is not expected to be sold in Australia, where GM Holden already sells the small Trax city-SUV.

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