GM Ramps Up on an All-Electric Future
General Motors has its sights set on an all-electric future, some day.
The Detroit-based automotive giant announced plans to roll out two new all-electric vehicles in the next 18 months. The additions will reflect lessons learned from GM’s first foray into the zero-emission car market with its Chevrolet Bolt EV—and will also be the first of at least 20 all-electric vehicles the company plans to launch by 2023.
“General Motors believes in an all-electric future,” said Mark Reuss in a release, General Motors executive vice president of product development, purchasing and supply chain.
“Although that future won’t happen overnight, GM is committed to driving increased usage and acceptance of electric vehicles through no-compromise solutions that meet our customers’ needs.”
GM also introduced a large concept vehicle called SURUS: the Silent Utility Rover Universal Superstructure. The emission-free, fuel-cell powered vehicle is driven by two electric motors, presenting an eco-friendly alternative to the standard delivery vehicle, truck or ambulance.
The announcement comes on the heels of CEO Mary Barra revealing GM’s new vision for the world: zero crashes, zero emissions and zero congestion. To get there, GM said it will require more than just battery electric technology, rather a “two-pronged approach to electrification” that includes both battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell electric, depending on the unique requirements.
Many automakers are introducing consumer-grade all-electric vehicles, some taking an even tougher stance. Volvo intends to shift all its vehicles to full-electric or hybrid, stopping the production of gas-only models by 2019. Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen have also outlined plans to electrify its cars.
Tesla’s third all-electric offering, the Model 3, is currently in mass production to fulfill strong demand. The company is also adding more city supercharger stations to power up the their cars faster than ever.
Despite the push to an all-electric automotive future, gas-guzzling SUVs and trucks remain some of the most popular cars—especially in the United States where the most Googled car is GM’s very own Buick Enclave.
