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Buick Velite Concept. A four-seat convertible created by American designers from GM working in Italy with Pininfarina, the Velite is part of Buick's ongoing $3 billion plan to recreate itself in the luxury image of Lexus. The Velite is built on a new rear-wheel-drive platform developed by Holden that will find its way to a range of GM cars beginning in 2007 with a Buick sedan. Unlike the 2001 Bengal convertible concept, the Velite will actually reach production, although not until 2008. It can't be soon enough, as Tiger Woods is apparently wondering when Buick will build something that he'd actually like to drive. Looking a little like the Bengal concept of several years ago, the Velite is Buick's latest vision for a flagship convertible. Built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive platform dubbed Zeta, the Velite uses simple lines and classic proportions to create an upscale-looking four-place convertible. It wears two of Buick's traditional design cues — a waterfall grille and side portholes — but updates them in a manner befitting a 21st century concept. The staggered 20- and 21-inch wheels add a little muscle to its stance but the overall look is still one of Buick elegance. |