First of all, let me express my thanks to Lyle for creating and supporting the best EV community on the web, and for letting me guest post on the homepage.
I recently had the opportunity to exchange emails with Rob Peterson, Volt / Advanced Technology PR Manager at General Motors regarding GM’s future product plans. Given that the Converj was cancelled, then possibly resurrected, I wondered if there were any other changes to previously stated product plans at GM.
Rob’s first and best response regarding current / new alternative fuel / propulsion systems was: “Right now, we are only working on the ICE variant” of the Voltec propulsion system. Certainly, until GM gets the Volt’s wheels on the road, this should be their only integration effort. Given that they are combining electric and flex fuel (gasoline / E-85) technologies in a single product, that is saying a lot.
In parallel, GM continues to work on fuel cells and improved ICE’s, like the HCCI (homogeneous charge compression ignition), which combines the best parts of spark and auto ignition systems. Rob also stated that GM is “intrigued by the potential of natural gas”, which is in line with their restructuring filings listing natural gas as a possible development option in the future. He concedes some techs require new infrastructure and all need continued cost reduction.
As for my favorite, the rotary engine, Rob stated: “a rotary engine – which theoretically makes sense, because it operates efficiently at specific bandwidths – is at a clear disadvantage, having not been a part of the powertrain portfolio for automotive purposes for some time and without the benefits of generational learnings that typically drive down the cost of technology”.
In short, GM is going to play it safe / smart by concentrating on internally developed Voltec, advanced ICE and fuel cell technologies.
