General Motors is participating in the 2010 Guangzhou Auto Show, which began today, through its Shanghai GM joint venture. Under the theme of "Drive to Green and Leading Innovation," it is showcasing 23 production and concept vehicles. Among the products on display are the Sail electric concept vehicle, which is making its global debut, and the Chevrolet Volt extended-range electric vehicle.
"GM is committed to delivering a range of advanced propulsion technologies and offering a portfolio of solutions that will allow our customers to choose the vehicle that best meets their needs," said Kevin Wale, President and Managing Director of the GM China Group. "GM's expertise in batteries, electric motors and power controls will enable us to provide the best possible choices when it comes to vehicle electrification technologies."
Sail Electric Concept Vehicle
The Sail electric concept vehicle was developed by Shanghai GM and the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) in Shanghai. Based on the Chevrolet Sail that went on sale at the beginning of the year, it is an environmentally friendly small car that is targeted at ordinary Chinese families.
The Sail electric concept vehicle is powered by a lithium-ion battery with maximum output of 65 kW and maximum torque of 220 Nm. It has a maximum speed of 130 km/h and can go up to 150 kilometers on a single electric charge. It uses regenerative braking to produce additional energy. The Intelligent Charging Assisting System maximizes the energy conversion ratio.
Its simple contemporary design is aerodynamic. Inspiration has come from leaves, and is reflected across the exterior. The Sail electric concept vehicle features a simple yet modern interior along with a range of electronic amenities. It has adopted electric vehicle standards for safety set by SAE and ISO.
Chevrolet Volt Extended-Range Electric Vehicle
The Chevrolet Volt is the world's first extended-range electric vehicle that provides the benefits of an electric vehicle without the range limitations associated with other electric vehicles on the market. Powered by GM's revolutionary Voltec propulsion system, it provides maximum torque of 368 Nm, maximum output of 111 kW and a maximum speed of 160 km/h. It can run solely on electric power stored in its 16 kWh lithium-ion battery for up to 80 kilometers without consuming a single drop of petroleum and with zero emissions.
When the battery is depleted, its on-board engine-generator starts producing electricity to drive the Volt another 490 kilometers, giving the Volt a range of up to 570 kilometers. When launched in China in the fourth quarter of 2011, the Volt will be equipped with the OnStar system, which will offer a smart phone application co-developed by Chevrolet and OnStar. Owners will be able to control all vehicle functions and OnStar services on a 24/7 basis.
The Volt has received several awards in North America including Motor Trend 2011 Car of the Year, Automobile Magazine 2011 Car of the Year, 2011 Green Car of the Year from Green Car Journal, and Best Innovation from Popular Mechanics magazine.
"The Sail electric concept vehicle and Chevrolet Volt are examples of industry-leading solutions being developed by GM and our partners globally," said Wale. "GM is also establishing battery electric vehicle demonstration fleets around the world to better understand driving patterns, battery charging, market needs and customer acceptance of electric vehicles. At the same time, GM is investing in start-up companies with innovative ideas to accelerate next-generation electrification technologies."
