GM announced today at the LA Auto Show that it will, in fact, send its Beat concept into production, but not stateside — at least initially. Originally one of three sub-compact car concepts to be shown as a group at various auto shows earlier this year, the Beat was featured in an online poll in which over 1.8 million voters chose it as their favorite of the concept trio over the Groove and Trax.
Development of the Chevrolet Beat occurred mostly in GM’s South Korean styling department, leading to the decision to begin production in the same location. While specifics have not yet been given on GM’s choice of powerplant for the production Beat, we’re guessing it will be a small-displacement gasoline unit, at least to start.
No doubt, the General is nervous that such a small city-car might not catch on in North America, but the success of upcoming models such as the Smart ForTwo, should give it a basis on which to make the decision to bring the Beat to our shores. The Beat is slated for a global showroom debut in mid-2009.
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