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FOR RELEASE: January 6, 2003 GM Offers Hybrid Power On More Than A Dozen Popular Models
DETROIT - General Motors Corp. will offer optional hybrid powertrains on several of its most popular models including trucks, SUVs and mid-size sedans starting in late 2003, GM President and CEO Rick Wagoner announced today at the North American International Auto Show. "This is a major commitment to offer consumers three different hybrid propulsion systems on three vehicle architectures, representing more than a dozen of our most popular models," Wagoner said. "Although today's hybrid market represents relatively low volumes, we're well positioned to meet market demand as it develops. In fact, if consumers were to select the hybrid option on all of the models included in our multi-year plan, it could eventually exceed 1 million vehicles. "Because hybrids cost several thousands of dollars more than conventional vehicles, we believe offering multiple approaches on our most popular vehicles is the best way to explore the market for the technology," Wagoner added. "Consumer-based tax credits will play a critical role in gaining market acceptance by making these technologies more affordable." The systems announced today vary in complexity and cost to explore the market viability of each application. The models start with the already announced production of the GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado hybrid pickup trucks in 2003. The new programs include:
"We are taking a very pragmatic approach, targeting a wide array of popular models with varying degrees of complexity to give consumers a variety of choice," Wagoner said. "GM sees this commitment as a matter of both competitive positioning and good long-term business planning. Given the present level of fuel prices and consumers' complex needs and desires, it's uncertain to us just what level of market may exist for hybrids at this point in time. However, we do think the technology has the potential to become a factor in the market. We also see hybrids as a bridge to fuel cells, making these programs of value for developing production drive systems and power controls." Hybrids draw power from two different energy sources, typically a gas or diesel engine combined with an electric motor. GM's approach stretches from the very aggressive with the dual electric motor VUE, to the more practical approach of combining electric motor assist with other efficiency gaining technologies such as Displacement on Demand and VTi. Displacement on Demand saves fuel by using only half of the engine's cylinders during certain driving conditions. The system automatically and seamlessly reactivates the other cylinders when the driver needs the engine's full capabilities for brisk acceleration or load carrying. In stop-and-go driving, where fuel efficiency is at its lowest, an electric motor assist enables smooth automatic engine shutoffs and restarts at idle, early lockup of the torque converter clutch in second gear, and aggressive fuel cutoff and regenerative braking while coasting and accelerating. This combination provides a practical and effective hybrid that is well suited to North American driving patterns in GM's trucks and SUVs. The same is true with VTi transmissions to be utilized on the Equinox and Malibu. VTi variable transmissions automatically operate at an infinite number of gear ratios over a wide overall ratio range, helping to keep the engine operating near its best efficiency under all driving conditions. Wagoner concluded that for the near-term, GM will continue to refine and improve the internal combustion engine to provide better efficiency and power to meet customer needs. For the mid-term picture stretching from mid-decade into the next, GM is putting its considerable resources into affordable and effective hybrid technologies, as announced today. And for the long-term, GM has demonstrated its vision of the future with the Hy-Wire concept and the potential of the hydrogen economy and fuel cells as the ultimate answer. General Motors (NYSE: GM), the world's largest vehicle manufacturer, designs, builds and markets cars and trucks worldwide. It has been the global automotive sales leader since 1931. GM employs about 355,000 people around the world. More information on GM can be found at www.gm.com. CONTACT(S):
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