Opel Concept: 2010 Geneva Auto Show

RÜSSELSHEIM, Germany — Opel will unveil a futuristic concept at the 2010 Geneva Auto Show that will present the company's "vision of future mobility." Expect its drivetrain to be a derivative of the 2011 Chevrolet Volt's series-hybrid system.

Opel released no details and only a teaser image of the vehicle, but said it would combine "expressive design, environmental innovation and alternative propulsion systems."

But the teaser shot clearly shows a "Voltec" badge, indicating the Volt's propulsion system, which combines a front-drive electric motor, a small gasoline engine and a lithium-ion battery pack. The Volt-based Opel Ampera, first shown at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show, will also be on hand in Opel's booth this year. The Ampera is slated to go into production in late 2011.

Opel said its new concept is intended to "boost the company's credentials as a leader in environmental vehicles."

Also in Geneva, we'll see the next generation of the compact Opel Meriva minivan.

Inside Line says: Here's evidence to support Opel boss Nick Reilly's earlier statement that the company plans to invest heavily in hybrids, EVs and alternative propulsion. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent