(autoinsidernews) - General Motors introduced its new EcoJet concept a turbine-powered supercar that runs on bio-diesel and develops 650 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque. The EcoJet is powered by a Honeywell LT-101 turbine engine that runs on bio-diesel fuel. The engine sits in a modified Corvette Z06 hydroformed aluminum frame with aluminum and magnesium structural and chassis components. The vehicle's shell is an advanced construction of carbon fiber over Kevlar, reports Trend.
EcoJet's esthetics were driven by aeronautical and jet-age influences, said Welburn. It's a purpose-driven design that conveys power, capability and even danger, with a hint of Cadillac's sophisticated design vocabulary.
The EcoJet began as a discussion between avid car enthusiast, collector and Tonight Show host Jay Leno, and Bernard Juchli, the chief mechanic and caretaker of Leno's collection. Leno then turned to Ed Welburn, GM vice president of Global Design, for design direction.
A couple of paper napkins later, Ed had begun to capture the essence of the car, said Leno. I've admired the work of GM's Design Studio in North Hollywood, Calif., and asked Ed if the studio's director, Frank Saucedo, and his guys could continue the design study,