GM transplants Chevrolet Volt technology into the Cadillac ELR hybrid

One of the headliners of the 2009 Detroit auto show, the Cadillac Converj concept, will become production reality.

Cadillac confirmed some details on Wednesday afternoon and said that the coupe will be called the ELR. It will use a T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack, and a generator kicks on to extend range, similar to the Chevrolet Volt. The Cadillac will also use a four-cylinder gasoline engine, again like the Chevy.

The car will have a 2+2 seating configuration. More details, including powertrain and timing of the launch, will be revealed later.

The ELR name highlights the electric-drive capability of the car.

Meanwhile, Cadillac will reveal another concept on Thursday ahead of the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The brand also confirmed the addition of the ATS as a BMW 3-series fighter and the XTS as a range-topping sedan for its lineup in 2012.

By Greg Migliore