GM Unveils New, Extended-Range EV1 Electric Car - The Most Energy-Efficient Vehicle in The World
General Motors Gives Peek at 21st Century Automotive Technology At Universal Studios Party
December 05, 1999 16:15
LOS ANGELES, Dec. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- General Motors (NYSE: GM) officially launched its new, extended-range EV1 electric vehicle today with a party at Universal Studios that also gave a glimpse of the advanced technology that could well find its way into cars of the 21st century.
The new, second-generation EV1, with a range almost double that of its predecessor, was joined at Universal Studios' Globe Theater by the Chevy Triax -- a futuristic, gas-electric hybrid concept vehicle being shown for the first time ever on the West Coast. Also unveiled was a clay model of the advanced-technology Precept concept vehicle, a full-size version of which will be introduced in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
With more than 600 guests invited, the launch party -- which also celebrated the third birthday of the original EV1 -- was believed to be the largest gathering ever of electric vehicles and electric vehicle owners.
Celebrated as the most aerodynamic and energy-efficient vehicle in the world, the second-generation EV1 has nickel-metal-hydride batteries that enable the vehicle to travel 75-140 miles per charge, depending on driving style, terrain, temperature, and road selection. (Some second-generation EV1s are equipped with high-capacity lead-acid batteries that deliver 65-95 miles per charge.)
The greatly improved range of the second-generation EV1 makes the car more practical than ever for drivers -- and, in fact, will likely attract a whole new class of customers who previously may not have considered driving an electric vehicle.
Future GM Advanced Technology Vehicles On Display
"The EV1 is the future of transportation," said Ken Stewart, General Motors brand manager for advanced-technology vehicles. "Besides earning a place in automotive history, the EV1 has served as a tremendous learning lab for GM designers, engineers and manufacturers. The result of the knowledge gained can be seen in the second-generation EV1, and will continue to be applied to other GM cars and trucks in the future."
In addition to being the world's first production electric car, a slightly modified version of the first EV1 set the world's land-speed record for an electric vehicle at 183 mph in 1994. The EV1 accelerates from 0-30 mph in less than 3 seconds, and 0-60 in less than 8.5 seconds. The EV1 has an electronically limited top speed of 80 mph for the safety and protection of its drivers and passengers.
Following its debut at the recent Tokyo Motor Show, the Chevy Triax hybrid concept vehicle was also on display today. The Triax would give drivers unprecedented freedom by allowing them to choose one of three propulsion systems: an all-electric version; a gas-electric hybrid version; or an ultra-low-emissions gasoline-powered version. A choice of body styles could also be available.
Borrowing lessons learned in developing the EV1, the Triax surpasses most production vehicles in aerodynamic performance. The Triax is also a showcase for GM's leadership in leveraging expertise by developing strategic global relationships.
Indeed, GM teamed with Suzuki Motor Corporation, a recognized global leader in the design and manufacture of efficient small cars and motorcycles, to create the Triax. Hybrid-electric and gasoline-engine versions of Triax feature the latest in small engine and transmission technology from Suzuki. GM and Suzuki have a relationship dating to 1981.
Also on display today was a clay model of the Precept, GM's newest advanced-technology concept vehicle. A result of General Motors' participation in the Partnership for a New Generation Vehicle (PNGV), the Precept - in wind-tunnel tests performed in Detroit -- recently surpassed the EV1 as the most aerodynamic car in the world. The Precept will debut in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
SOURCE General Motors
/CONTACT: Jeff Kuhlman / Detroit, 248-680-5999, or Donn Walker / L.A.,
805-373-9572, both of General Motors/
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