Chevy Borrego Interior Adapts to Changing Demands

During the weekdays, when commuting is its primary task, the 2001 Chevrolet Borrego concept vehicle is a sporty, surefooted two-seater with a small cargo bed. But for nightlife and weekend adventures when the friends are along, the vehicle’s reconfigurable mid-gate slides outward to create two new seats in the rear.

It’s a segment-busting innovation that shows GM is serious about giving customers the most vehicle for their money. This sort of versatility was first seen in the upcoming Chevy Avalanche, which has a unique Convert-a-Cab™ system that allows the truck to adapt quickly to customer requirements. In its standard configuration, the Avalanche offers a roomy, comfortable five-passenger cab along with a cargo box measuring 5’ 3” long. The Convert-a-Cabä system allows one person to reconfigure the cargo area in seconds without tools to create a 4’ x 8’ cargo area to transport large items.

The Borrego’s reconfigurable mid-gate is held in place with solenoid pins that can be operated by remote control. The rear window is retracted into the mid-gate, which can then slide rearward. A roof panel that is stored under the cargo bed is then installed to cover these two new seats, and the rear window can be raised again, if desired. Self-inflating seals keep the compartment watertight regardless of whether it’s set up for two passengers or four.

These reconfigurations are blurring traditional distinctions in sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks in a way that will appeal to active customers with varied needs. “These are GM innovations that the other guys can’t match,” said Clay Dean, brand character chief designer for Chevy Truck.

back