So what is the issue? Whether the essential battery technology in Chevrolet's Volt electric car will be commercially viable. GM's # 1 priority is to prove that they can put real vehicles on the road by 2010 with a significant advance in fuel-effecient technology and performance to lift GM's standing with "green' consumers. Testing will go on up until about 6 months prior to the launch of Volt 2 and half years from now.
So what does this mean?: GM is putting it all on the line with designs and power systems based on the massive lithium-ion battery technology from several sources. There is big risk and managers in the project say it is not done deal. GM lost the technological and environmental leadership to the Japanese manufacturers when a bunch of traditional car guys opted not to go ahead with hybrids. Putting the "voltage" into the Volt is only the beginning of what GM has to do to keep up with Toyota and Honda.
So what does this mean?: GM is putting it all on the line with designs and power systems based on the massive lithium-ion battery technology from several sources. There is big risk and managers in the project say it is not done deal. GM lost the technological and environmental leadership to the Japanese manufacturers when a bunch of traditional car guys opted not to go ahead with hybrids. Putting the "voltage" into the Volt is only the beginning of what GM has to do to keep up with Toyota and Honda.
1 comment:
I think GM has loftier goals than attempting to lift its "standing with 'green' consumers." One of GM's Volt insiders told me the team is thinking about making a difference in the world, not just in sales. So, don't count out the big dog just yet... they may have a few more tricks up their collective sleeve than you give them credit for.
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