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What started as a fuel cell project is now an electric-vehicle. (http://www.autoweek.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061128/FREE/61127005/1024/LATESTNEWS)

http://www.cleanmpg.com/photos/data/501/Chevrolet_Sequel_Concept.jpgJamie Lareau - Automotive News - Nov. 27, 2006

The Chevrolet Sequel FCV w/out the Fuel Cel is an EV without the added expense.

General Motors CEO Rick Wagoner is expected to announce the latest step in GM's alternative-fuel vehicle programs at the Los Angeles Auto show this week.

While stopping short of revealing exactly what Wagoner might say, GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said executives think electric vehicles are the future. GM's work on fuel cell vehicles may first bear fruit as a "series hybrid" vehicle, Lutz said.

Wagoner will speak Wednesday morning, Nov. 29.

A series hybrid could run primarily on electricity from lithium ion batteries, with an engine as backup to replenish the batteries, Lutz said. The backup engine could be a diesel or gasoline internal combustion engine. Backup energy also could come from a fuel cell.

"Tom Stephens (group vice president of GM Powertrain), Rick Wagoner and I believe in the ultimate electrification of the automobile," Lutz told Automotive News. "We believe that's where it's going."

Lutz said lithium ion batteries must be improved to hold a bigger charge and deliver the charge gradually. He added: "What started as a fuel cell project is now an electric-vehicle".

Riiight. Nothing to do with the way the wind is blowing...

Hi Rich:

___I think someone at GM finally figured out that H2 and FCV’s are a bust and all those billions of $’s better produce something of substance. I cannot wait until NAIAS to see what is up there sleeves wrt to the PHEV Serial hybrid or EV. Probably more of the same w/ yet another GM Concept going nowhere all the while Wagoner and his gang think they will sell more Suburban’s and Tahoe’s because of all the discussion.

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Believe it when I see it.

Believe it when I see it.


My sentiments exactly!

GM will probably manufacture THREE units, list it for a quarter-million dollars each, then say, "We *tried* selling 3rd-gen hybrids, but they're just not viable. But how about a coal-burning Hummer Hc?"

...GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz said executives think electric vehicles are the future...

I just watched "Who Killed the Electric Car?" for a second time last night -- I can't seem to return it to Netflix. This is an amazing turnaround if he's not blowing smoke.

Bring it on already!

Heard a rumor that GM might be about to announce the Sequel to be offered first as a series hybrid before it is introduced as a FCV.


"Serial Hybrid" would be a good glossary term. Article defined it:Only the electric motor(s) propel the vehicle - the ICE is dedicated to generating the electricity

Is that a good definition?

Hi Chuck:

___Decent enough.

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Hi All:

___Interesting and excellent link about GM and other PHEV’s from MIT’s Technology Review …

GM's Plug-In Hybrid - How super-hybrids could slash gas consumption and usher in a new era of transportation. (http://www.technologyreview.com/Energy/17855/)

___Good Luck

___Wayne

Emphasis on the could... Oh, I'm not saying that I don't think the technology could/will, but that we may not see it as soon or from them first.