GM Preps for the Debut of the Plug-in Car by Wooing Electric Companies

July 23rd, 2008 by Courtney Carlisle Bolton

In order to usher in the Chevy Volt, due out in 2010, General Motors is partnering with 30 utility companies across 40 states to ensure that the infrastructure to support the new model will exist. This is great news for the Toyota RAV4 drivers who have been driving electric cars for the last decade.

Of course, this new brand of plug-in cars, will still rely on fuel in addition to electricity unlike their predecessors. The hope, of course, is that gasoline use will only be on an “as-needed” basis, helping cut dependence on the pump.

GM will roll out the Chevrolet Volt and Saturn Vue as plug-in hybrids while competitors, including Toyota Motor Corp. and Ford Motor Co., are working on versions of plug-in vehicles but have not yet released timing and specs.

LIke all changes in technology for the automobile, the plug-in’s success will depend on cooperation from other industries, including the utility companies and battery manufacturers since they will need a supply source. Austin Energy, a city-owned utility that serves the Texas capital, has decided to offer a $1,000 incentive to people who buy plug-in cars according to a Wall Street Journal article.

GM is hoping that other companies will follow suit and offer incentives, to help boost sales for the struggling car manufacturer.

Read More About Transportation:











Appreciate CleanTechnica’s originality? Consider becoming a CleanTechnica member, supporter, or ambassador — or a patron on Patreon.

Sign up for our free daily newsletter or weekly newsletter to never miss a story.

Have a tip for CleanTechnica, want to advertise, or want to suggest a guest for our CleanTech Talk podcast? Contact us here.

Latest Cleantech Talk Episode