SOUTH AUSTRALIAN PREMIER Mike Rann has called on Holden to build an electric version of the Cruze at its Elizabeth assembly plant.

Although he didn’t specify a desired timeframe, Rann said that such a move would strengthen the local car industry.

“Because the Cruze has the same architectural base as GM’s new Volt, it is technologically possible to ultimately have an electric version of the Cruze manufactured on the new car production line at Elizabeth,” Mr Rann said.

“The Volt is currently only in prototype stage but I think that the message we’re giving General Motors is that we played our part, we’ve made a major contribution to Holden’s future, we’d like to see the electric car built at Elizabeth as well.”

Rann may have a substantial wait ahead of him, however, as local production of Holden’s upcoming Delta II-platformed small car isn’t due to start until 2010 and Australian deliveries of the US-built Chevrolet Volt (also built on the Delta II platform) won’t begin until 2012.

Despite this, Rann remains optimistic that an Australian-built electric car or series hybrid would benefit both the local car industry and Australian consumers alike.

“Developing and adapting this new Holden four-cylinder to even lower carbon emission standards will further entrench our car manufacturing industry,” he said.