GM UPDATES ITS APPROACH TO EVS, AVS & FCVS - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 643

EV Channels Review

Autoline After Hours features GM's VP of Electric, Autonomous & Fuel Cell Vehicle Programs, Ken Morris, discussing the company's multifaceted electrification strategy. GM is aggressively rolling out nine new ground-up EV models in 2023, leveraging its Ultium platform for flexibility across diverse vehicles from the Chevrolet Equinox to the Hummer EV. Morris emphasizes GM's vertical integration in battery systems, including drive units and power electronics, which he states is crucial for optimizing vehicle design, efficiency, and performance, unlike retrofitting existing platforms. The discussion highlights the ongoing evolution of battery chemistries and form factors, with GM maintaining flexibility. While EVs dominate the current conversation, Morris confirms significant investment and progress in autonomous driving (Cruise) and fuel cell technology, particularly for heavy-duty applications where EVs are less suitable. The conversation also touches on the challenges of battery cost reduction, supply chain security, and the infrastructure required for widespread adoption, suggesting that while consumer EVs are advancing rapidly, fuel cells hold promise for specific commercial and heavy-duty use cases.