SHANGHAI MOTOR SHOW: Chevrolet FNR-X concept wows China

Chevrolet has unveiled a new concept for a plug-in hybrid SUV that features an advanced aero and active suspension that can adjusts its ground clearance on demand.

Called the FNR-X, the US car maker claims its latest concept draws inspiration from the 2015 Chevrolet FNR (Find New Roads) concept that was shown back at the 2015 Shanghai show but, in the flesh, the latest design study looks like it borrows much from the current Camaro.

Featuring an interior dominated by remote control rear-hinged doors and a pillar-less structure, inside, the new Chevy’s nterior is claimed to mix traditional Chinese woodwork with a high-tech design.

In reality, the concept has not one, but seven screens - with three alone projecting images onto the FNR-X's windscreen that includes providing a handy 270 degree view of the road behind, if needed.

The largest, is a centrally-mounted hexagonal infotainment system on the dash that's thought previews the US car maker's next-generation of infotainment system that relies on augmented reality, projecting images and holograms to help cut down on driver distraction.

Under the bonnet there's a plug-in hybrid powertrain, although Chevrolet hasn't released any technical info on what engine or electric motors will power the FNR-X. Instead, it says the driver has the choice of two driving modes - a V (Versatility) or S (Sport) mode.

Each individual setting changes the suspension and handling characteristics, says Chevy, thanks to the advanced adaptive suspension that can also adjust for ride height.

On the move the concept also introduces active aero largely alien to the small crossover class. Features like active grill shutters are nothing new, but the US car maker's concept also comes with adjustable wheel blades, front and rear spoilers and side skirts that move according to driving style to maximise downforce or minimise drag.

Like most cars at the Shanghai show, Chevrolet is keen to highlight the FNR-X's autonomous driving aids that relies on both optical and acoustic sensors to navigate without input from the driver.

Despite looking nowhere near as outlandish as the original FNR concept, Chevrolet has yet to confirm it will build the FNR-X and is thought to be using the Shanghai show as a toe-in-the-water exercise.