It’s very rare that I write a diary in response to someone else’s. In fact, this is the first time I’ve done it.
But I have to respond to a recent Diary that said Toyota was "bitch-slapping" The Big Three. What can I say? I work at a GM plant. I’m biased:).
Last year, GM unveiled a concept car called The Volt at the Detroit International Auto Show. The car was considered to be one of the highlights of the event, as it advertised that it could get over 150 miles per gallon.
After the show, a movement was created to make sure that the Volt was created and not just left on the show floor as a concept car. Now the movement is producing results:
General Motors has awarded two contracts for advanced development of lithium-ion batteries for its electric drive "E-Flex System," it was announced today at GM's annual shareholder meeting.
GM selected two companies out of the 13 technical proposals it considered to provide advanced lithium batteries for both range-extender electric and fuel cell variants of the E-Flex architecture. The E-Flex electric vehicle architecture underpins the Chevy Volt concept car shown earlier this year and is being developed as part of GM's strategy to diversify transportation away from petroleum.
One contract will go to lithium-ion battery supplier Compact Power, Inc., based in Troy, Mich. CPI is a subsidiary of Korean battery manufacturer LG Chem. A second contract has been awarded to Frankfurt, Germany-based Continental Automotive Systems, a division of Continental A.G., a tier one automotive supplier that will develop lithium-ion battery packs. GM continues to assess other solutions to quickly bring lithium-ion batteries to production.
"The signing of these battery development contracts is an important next step on the path to bring the Volt closer to reality," said GM Chairman and CEO, Rick Wagoner. "Given the huge potential that the Volt and its E-Flex system offers to lower oil consumption, lower oil imports, and reduce carbon emissions, this is a top priority program for GM."
So you can expect GM to have a sweet, 150 mpg ride in the next few years. Plus, they’re bringing more jobs to the Motor City (or at least, its suburbs:)). Not only will you be able to buy a super-hybrid, you’d be supporting unionized workers as opposed to a union-hostile entity.
Suck on that, Toyota! :)
And for all you who still think The Big Three aren’t working on hybrids, check the list!