Electrification Important to GM's Success

As if that wasn't obvious... But General Motors is really keen on getting closer to electrification, as Beth Lowery, Vice President of Environment, Energy and Safety Policy at GM, said in a webchat on the company's blogs. Lowery emphasized that General Motors will continue its efforts in the green car sector, mainly through new models, no matter if we're talking about hybrids or electric vehicles.

"We have been executing our advanced technology strategy, including fuel cells, and will continue to do so. There is no single solution and believe that electrification of the vehicle--inlcuding hybrids, extended range electric and fuel cells are important to GM's success," Lowery said in the webchat.

Specifically, the company expects to debut 26 models of hybrid and extended range electric vehicles by 2014. Additionally, it will make 50 percent of its fleet power Flex-Fuel-able by 2012. GM is already working with the government to facilitate consumers' access to E85 at an affordable price, she explained.

"It is critical that we execute our product strategy, including improving fuel economy on all our models. The Volt is a top priority and will drive our image in this area. The overall commitment to reduce emissions and waste from both products and plants is critical. We will deliver on our commitment to be landfill free at 50% of our plants by end of next year."

Speaking about Volt's batteries, Lowery confirmed the company is currently working on a secondary use for the battery, but refused to provide how exactly the pack could be used after being disconnected from the Volt.

"The Volt batteries will have a useful life after its application in the vehicle. We are working on secondary uses," she concluded.