Friday, June 26th, 2009
We have seen pictures and some great reviews. But for some people, seeing is believing and with moving pictures, GM Volt followers can now get an idea on how the GM Volt actually started.
One thing that is fascinating is the manufacturing process of certain vehicles. However, it should be noted that the GM Volt is no ordinary car. Remember that it is the much ballyhooed electric car that GM has for the growing market of electric cars.
Hence, these new pre-production videos showcase the first units that have rolled off. Most of these vehicles will be used for the testing and validation of production and design. They will also be used to develop the final software and controls, including the way that the driver interacts with the vehicle.
(Source) Press
Tags:
electric car,
electric cars,
GM,
gm volt,
manufacturing process,
validation,
volts
Posted in GM | Comments
Monday, April 20th, 2009
Ford is on the offensive in efforts to speed up the developmental process of their electric vehicle plans. Ford is accelerating its research, development and testing of advanced Li-ion battery technology, thanks, in part, to a $55 million tax credit incentive from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
Ford has engaged researchers at the University of Michigan and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to conduct digital simulation tests, collecting degradation data that Ford and its battery suppliers have used to improve Li-ion performance.
In addition, Ford has entered into research partnerships with eight regional electrical utility companies to conduct real-world tests on Li-ion-powered Ford Escape PHEVs.
These vehicles:
- Use a common household current (120 volts) for charging, with a full charge of the battery completed within six to eight hours
- Can achieve up to 120 mpg when driven on surface streets for the first 30 miles following a full charge
- Operate in two modes, electric drive and blended electric-engine drive
- Run as a fuel-efficient standard Ford Escape Hybrid one the charge in the battery as been depleted
(Source) Press
Tags:
battery suppliers,
battery technology,
eight hours,
electric vehicle,
electrical utility companies,
electrification,
ford escape,
ford escape hybrid,
li ion battery,
volts
Posted in Cars, Ford | Comments