Buick OMPV concept predicts future of luxury minivans in China

Buick is celebrating production of the two millionth GL8 in China by unveiling the all-new OMPV concept. Billed as an “Organic Mobile Private Villa,” it previews the next generation of luxury minivans.

While the automaker has only released a single photo and a terrible Weibo Live video, the concept sports a futuristic design with “organic, progressive aesthetics.” The company hasn’t said much about the bus, but we can see a near-vertical front fascia with triangular accents and striking lighting units.

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They are joined by a short hood that flows into an expansive windshield. Designers also gave the concept a sleek silver body and a contrasting black roof with a sensor pod. We can also see recessed door handles, aerodynamically optimized wheels and striking rear fins. The taillights are incorporated into the latter and seem to span the width of the vehicle.

Buick didn’t show the interior, but said it “presents an organic and dynamic environment through its connection to the Internet of Things.” The company added that the cabin can be transformed into a living room, a children’s playroom, a mobile meeting space and a private space for executives.

The company also didn’t share any powertrain details, but confirmed that the concept is a new energy vehicle. This suggests it’s either a plug-in hybrid or an electric vehicle, with the latter seeming more likely given the closed front end.

In addition to unveiling the concept, Buick presented the two millionth GL8 to Olympic gold medalist Sun Yang at a special ceremony. The model was a blue plug-in hybrid, and the company said it had received more than 30,000 orders since the van was unveiled in April. Buick also noted that the GL8 was introduced in 1999 and is the first premium MPV in China to reach the two million unit milestone.