The future of hybrid automobiles
With the worsening global warming situation, General Motors Corporation (GMC) has developed a lithium-ion battery for its vehicles and future models with hopes of producing more environment-friendly products.
The western automaker is currently collaborating with A123Systems in developing this exceptional vehicle feat. The A123System’s nanophosphate battery chemistry will be able to produce a long-lasting, safe, and powerful battery for the E-flex electric drive of GMC-produced brands such as Chevrolet, Ford, and Saturn.
“Breakthrough battery technology will drive future automotive propulsion, and the company that aligns with the best strategic partners will win. That’s what is so important about this deal,” said Bob Lutz, GM vice chairman of Global Product Development. “Whether you are talking about the Chevy Volt, a fuel cell or even a plug-in hybrid such as our planned Saturn Vue, we need to understand the fundamental battery cell performance.”
The Chevy Volt concept car, which was introduced earlier this year, was the first vehicle that was equipped with the E-flex electric vehicle architecture. This Chevrolet wonder can run up to 40 miles with zero gasoline and produce zero emissions. A high-technology like this could nearly eliminate going to the gas station altogether.
“The Chevy Volt will lead the automotive industry in a new direction,” said Lutz. “We see a future where vehicles run on electricity and are equipped with clever ways of making electricity on board, making us less dependent on gasoline. It’s the next great paradigm shift in our industry, an opportunity largely due to the rapid advancement in battery cell technology by companies such as A123Systems and LG Chem.”
GMC is really is committed in manufacturing these safer and friendlier vehicles, thus the company has named a diverse lineup of upcoming hybrid models such as the Saturn Vue and Chevrolet Malibu. Chevrolet Tahoe, a medium-duty pick-up truck, and GMC Yukon will be the world’s first two-mode hybrid system in an SUV. This technology will guarantee up to 40 percent improvement in city driving fuel economy to what is already the industry’s most fuel-efficient full-size SUVs. The system will surely improve the fuel efficiency of these trucks, which are usually utilized for hauling and towing.