Filed under: Car Tech
We’ve reported on a number of eco-friendly car concepts in the past, like Nissan’s electric Mixim and that supposed Ford Escort plug-in hybrid that, unfortunately, turned out to be a bogus rumor. Neither of those two is a reality, but GM’s latest concept is different. Company vice-chairman Bob Lutz says GM is ready to stop playing around and fully intends to release its electric car, called Volt, for sale in late 2010.
However, that electric car moniker requires a bit of a caveat here, as the Volt will actually have a small gas-powered engine nestled inside. But, unlike hybrids which use complicated transmissions to enable both the gas and electric motors to drive the wheels, the Volt will act more like a WWII diesel submarine. The gas engine will simply be run as a generator, re-charging the batteries after they’re depleted, something that’s expected to happen roughly every 40 miles. The process is similar to how Honda’s FCX Clarity will operate, but that car requires hydrogen which is available at only a handful of pumps across the nation. That said, Honda’s car, set to debut in 2008 on a very limited release, will emit zero emissions thanks to its fuel cell technology. The Volt will still produce some carbon emissions thanks to its (albeit limited) use of gasoline.
It’s unknown at this point just how many miles the car will be able to travel with both full batteries and a full gas tank, and the critical question of cost is also still in the air. The styling is certainly better than most electric concepts if a bit fender-heavy and slab-sided. Regardless, we’re happy to see an American auto maker challenge itself like this instead of blowing its budget on commercials to convince shoppers how “fuel efficient” their 20-something MPG cars are.
From DailyTech
Related Links:
- Honda Testing Clean Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car
- Nissan’s All-Electric Concept Car
- Ford Developing 100MPG Escort Hybrid
- Lightning’s New Electric GT Roadster
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