GM, Utilities Team Up on Plug-In Hybrids

By Paul Eisenstein July 22nd, 2008

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General Motors is teaming up with a consortium of more than 30 utilities around the country in a bid to make sure key cities will be ready when it rolls out its new plug-in hybrid, the Chevrolet Volt, in 2010.

Also known as an "extended-range electric vehicle," Chevy's sedan will be able to run as much as 40 miles on a single charge of its lithium-ion batteries - and then drive on indefinitely using a small, internal combustion engine. The automaker expects owners will charge up their Volts at home, each night, and possibly top up during the day as well, using charging stations at work or public garages. Conceivably, say for those who use the vehicle primarily to commute, it could operate for months solely on battery power.

That is, of course, if a motorist can find a place to plug in. Unlike some of the electric vehicles of years past, Volt will be able to charge up from any 110-volt outlet, but speed is a factor, and going to 220-volt systems would make it easier to ensure a full charge fast, especially when using a public charging station.

So one reason why GM wants to work with the nonprofit Electric Power Research Institute and its affiliated utilities is to work up ways to get higher-voltage systems in place across the country. That's not always as easy as it sounds. It could require, in some cases, changes to local and state regulations and codes. It might require upgrades by utilities to meet added electric demand.

The U.S. Department of Energy has already awarded a $10 million grant to EPRI and GM for a plug-in hybrid demonstration program. Meanwhile, both presidential candidates have jumped on the bandwagon, calling for tax credits and other federal support, even a contest to spur development of advanced automotive battery technology.

Tags: Chevrolet Volt, Chevy Volt, electric vehicles, EVs, general motors, hybrids, plug-in hybrids

Posted in : Biofuels, Electric Cars, Enthusiasts, GM, Hybrid Cars, Industry News |

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3 Responses to “GM, Utilities Team Up on Plug-In Hybrids”

I think 2010 is too early to set a network for a car like that. I hope it will be on time but i’m a little skeptic.

I think when the volt comes out is already outdated technology. I heard the car will be sold for $40K. Another terrible management decision by GM if that holds true. The upcoming Prius and the new Honda Hybrids are all plug ins as well and are set to debut between 09-10. Both manufacturers have more experience in building such type of vehicles while GM is very behind in this area. I have a feeling if one mistep such as pricing by the MBA big wigs that run the company will result to the demise of the company forever.

It’s all a wait and see, especially the volt is being seen as the savior of the company, so much is being pitted on this product, that if it fails, GM is toast.

I think GM is relying too much on the Volt. With rumors swirling on the a possible mistep such as pricing it at $40K (shows you that these MBA big wigs running the company knows nothing about the auto industry), there is a chance such hype will also be back breaking demise of the company if it fails.

Things do not really look good for GM with Toyota and Honda launching new plug in hybrids next year. GM’s old technology and the experienced and fully developed Clarity and Prius will definitely kill the Volt especially if it is insanely priced above $30K.