DETROIT  General Motors said Friday that it was committing $100 million to form its own venture capital firm as it seeks new technologies that can provide an advantage over competitors.

The subsidiary, known as General Motors Ventures, plans to invest in start-up companies working in a variety of fields, including renewable fuels, information and entertainment systems and advanced materials. G.M. already has identified some potential targets and expects to announce its first investments soon, a spokeswoman, Sherrie Childers-Arb, said.

“We are constantly looking for ways to deliver the best technology for our customers,” Stephen J. Girsky, a G.M. vice chairman, said in a statement. “Our goal is to nurture these innovative technologies to help bring them to market, and to ensure our customers have access to the best technology available.”

Jon Lauckner, who has been G.M.’s vice president for global product planning, will oversee the venture capital effort starting July 1, reporting to Mr. Girsky.