The Chevy Volt takes another baby step towards reality
Enough batteries for 2 VoltsGM, in theory, now has the ability to develop two fully operational Chevy Volt prototypes, as that is now how many batteries GM currently has in its possession. Recently, Compact Power delivered its 2nd battery to GM. A123Systems should soon be delivering its first battery to GM as well.
At the LA Auto Show, Tony Posawatz, vehicle line director for the Volt and the E Flex Drive, told me that GM would have a few fully functional Volts by the end of the first quarter of 2008. However, in a separate interview, Denise Gray, director of battery technology, confirmed that such a date would be difficult to achieve, but that her team was committed to making it happen. Finish....
Labels: bob lutz, Chevy Volt electric vehicle concept, lithium battery
posted by Dahcredyns at
8:32 AM
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Full Story
GM, in theory, now has the ability to develop two fully operational Chevy Volt prototypes, as that is now how many batteries GM currently has in its possession. Recently, Compact Power delivered its 2nd battery to GM. A123Systems should soon be delivering its first battery to GM as well.
At the LA Auto Show, Tony Posawatz, vehicle line director for the Volt and the E Flex Drive, told me that GM would have a few fully functional Volts by the end of the first quarter of 2008. However, in a separate interview, Denise Gray, director of battery technology, confirmed that such a date would be difficult to achieve, but that her team was committed to making it happen.
So, what's it all mean?
The technology to achieve the Volt, most importantly the batteries, is not yet fully baked. GM is using two different types of batteries in order to see if one works better for the Volt, or if neither work. It might turn it out that the current chemistry's of each battery pack have to be tweaked over and over again. It might turn out that they just don't work.
Nonetheless, despite numerous engineering challenges, GM is fast-tracking the Volt project, refusing to accept anything but success. Surprisingly, one of the main forces behind the 'no excuses' Volt push is Bob Lutz - electric car killer according to some.
After a brilliant career in the auto industry, it will be the Chevy Volt that will define Mr. Lutz, and it is for that reason that I would not bet against the Chevy Volt, nor Lutz. The Volt and E Flex will electrify the auto industry.
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