DETROIT—After securing more than $13.4 billion in federal bailout cash from Washington, a leaner and greener General Motors presented themselves with renewed confidence at their press conference on Sunday at the North American International Auto Show.
On Sunday they announced their commitment to fuel economy by unveiling a four-door mini-car called the Chevrolet Spark. Initially introduced in 2007 as the Beat, this small car with unmatched fuel economy will be available for the public in 2011. GM said that the Spark will get 40 miles to the gallon.
“The Chevrolet Spark will bring great style, roominess and versatility to the segment of extremely fuel-efficient small cars in the US,” promised Troy Clarke, President of GM North America. “The decision to add the Spark to Chevrolet’s portfolio reflects our commitment to being a fuel efficiency leader in this industry.”
For generations, General Motors’ line of Cadillacs, Hummers and Buicks were synonymous with luxury and the ability to appeal to a class of people who were financially insulated from the vagaries of rising gas prices. However, on Monday, GM continued it’s theme of being a leaner, greener company worthy of tax-payer money.
Several electric and hybrid vehicles were unveiled. Among them was the Cadillac Converj concept car which is projected to use the same lithium battery technology as the Chevy Volt. Despite it’s appeal as a larger vehicle, the Converj promises to go 40 miles on electric power alone, with a small gasoline engine added to extend it’s driving range.
The Chevy Orlando, a compact minivan which will seat seven, will also go into production in 2011. The fuel-efficient appeal for the Orlando is the 2.0-liter turbo-diesel that will generate 150 horsepower.
Perhaps the biggest news for loca Michiganders was the announcement on Monday that the planned powerhouse for many of GM’s new line of extended range vehicles will be produced right in Michigan and not outsourced overseas.
On Monday, GM CEO and Chairman, Rick Wagoner, unveiled the Volt battery, sometimes referred to as the Voltec battery. Accompanied by Peter Kim, CEO of LG Chemical, Bob Lutz, GM’s Vice-Chairman of Global Development, and Dr. Ann Sastry from the University of Michigan, Wagoner announced that the Volt battery packs used in all of GM’s future extended range vehicles, such as the Chevy Volt, will be built in the USA. Although GM execs remain tight-lipped about concrete plans, with the plants to be located here in Michigan, this could conceivably generate 5,000 jobs.
GM execs plan to bring the Volt to market in November, 2010. Locally, hope runs high that GM’s Chevy Volt will also be produced in Michigan, giving a much needed boost to its sagging economy.
