GM Addresses Future Vehicle Technologies
INDUSTRY NEWS
GM Addresses Future Vehicle TechnologiesMILFORD, MI (Aug. 28, 2007) - Speaking here at this year's General Motors Powertrain Technology Show for the media, Tom Stevens, vice president for Powertrain and Quality, provided an inside look at several future technology initiatives that GM is pursuing. Among them are the following: * GM continues to have a favorable outlook for electric hybrid technologies based on lithium-Ion battery technology. In the interim, however, initial hybrid systems will use nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries. Li-ion technology is being developed and optimized for eventual automotive applications such as full-size SUV-type vehicles said to be in the 20 mpg range, equipped with GM's new two-mode hybrid transmission system. * Turbocharged downsized engines are forthcoming, along with two-stage variable-valve lift added to cam phasing. * New technology for GM diesels in heavy-duty applications are also coming soon, but a program manager for diesels at the event expressed considerable concern with the limited attention being given to uniform biodiesel quality standards. * Enthusiasm for jatropha-based biodiesel fuel was expressed. Now shaping up as a worldwide race to expand its production, jatropha oil seeds can provide four times as much biodiesel per acre than soy beans, at half the cost, and can be grown on vast land areas not suitable for food crops.(Source: GM Powertrain Technology Show)
GM Addresses Future Vehicle TechnologiesMILFORD, MI (Aug. 28, 2007) - Speaking here at this year's General Motors Powertrain Technology Show for the media, Tom Stevens, vice president for Powertrain and Quality, provided an inside look at several future technology initiatives that GM is pursuing. Among them are the following: * GM continues to have a favorable outlook for electric hybrid technologies based on lithium-Ion battery technology. In the interim, however, initial hybrid systems will use nickel-metal-hydride (NiMH) batteries. Li-ion technology is being developed and optimized for eventual automotive applications such as full-size SUV-type vehicles said to be in the 20 mpg range, equipped with GM's new two-mode hybrid transmission system. * Turbocharged downsized engines are forthcoming, along with two-stage variable-valve lift added to cam phasing. * New technology for GM diesels in heavy-duty applications are also coming soon, but a program manager for diesels at the event expressed considerable concern with the limited attention being given to uniform biodiesel quality standards. * Enthusiasm for jatropha-based biodiesel fuel was expressed. Now shaping up as a worldwide race to expand its production, jatropha oil seeds can provide four times as much biodiesel per acre than soy beans, at half the cost, and can be grown on vast land areas not suitable for food crops.(Source: GM Powertrain Technology Show)