General Motors Unveils Buick Riviera Concept At Shanghai Auto Show

At the 2013 Shanghai Auto Show taking place in China, General Motors has unveiled the Buick Riviera concept, a modern take on a classic car. The concept was made is China, and is the latest to use the Riviera name, applying it to a car that features a sleek design that is said to be inspired by the Chinese phrase: "The greatest good is like water."

According to USA Today, the goal was to create a car design that invokes thoughts of a vibrant river in motion and the rolling waves of the ocean. That's the exterior, anyway, with the interior aiming to take inspiration from classic Chinese styles using ebony, wood inlaid with jade, suede, and aluminum. Also present are LED running lights and the familiar Buick grille.

While interpretation of design is up to the viewer, the concept is beautiful regardless of whether you see the influences of water in it. The interior is illuminated by soft blue LED lights, as are the LED headlights. Beyond the design is a hybrid powertrain, with consumers being able to charge it via either a standard charging cable or by going wirefree with a wireless charging panel under the car.

The concept also utilizes what General Motors refers to as an autopilot safety system that provides driving assistance – despite its name, you won't be able to kick back and let the Buick doing the driving for you. Says President of General Motors, Shanghai: "By seamlessly integrating advanced technologies, flexible functions and contemporary aesthetics, the new Riviera heralds the start of a new chapter for the 110-year-old Buick brand."

[via USA Today]