Wednesday, November 29, 2006

GM Developing Plug-In Hybrids

GM CEO says company developing Saturn-branded plug-in hybrid
By Terry Kosdrosky Last Update: 12:10 PM ET Nov 29, 2006, (MarketWatch)

General Motors Corp. (GM) Chief Executive Rick Wagoner said Wednesday that the U.S. needs to reduce dependence on foreign energy and insisted the No. 1 auto maker is accelerating its efforts to meet the challenge by being the first to offer a plug-in hybrid and by expanding its production of biofuel vehicles.
Wagoner said GM is using the Saturn Vue hybrid sport utility vehicle to develop a plug-in hybrid, which can be re-charged from a standard electrical outlet, and will offer biofuel-capable Hummer SUVs. He said "energy and environmental leadership" is a key part of GM's ongoing turnaround plan.
The Saturn Vue also will have a front-wheel drive version that will increase fuel efficiency.
If GM is first to market with a plug-in hybrid, it could help sway consumer perception that GM and U.S. auto makes aren't as committed to fuel efficiency as foreign-based auto makers...read more: here