Engineering a More
Equitable Future for All
General Motors is paving the way toward accessible, zero-emissions mobility.
This year, U.S. national parks broke visitor records as travelers sought an escape from long winters in lockdown.
All those trips coincide with a growing urgency to protect natural spaces threatened by climate change. With the transportation industry (including ships, trains, planes, and vehicles) making up close to one-third of greenhouse gas emissions, the future of mobility is at an inflection point. Today, it is looking more possible than ever that people will be able to enjoy low carbon travel options while exploring the outdoors.
If we are to mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, we must transition to low-carbon energy solutions that are accessible and affordable.
"As the U.S. continues to increase generation of clean electricity, electric vehicles become an even cleaner option. A country serious about fighting climate change will work diligently to reduce carbon emissions from both cars and power plants, because transportation and electricity production are the two greatest sources of greenhouse gas, and we need to be addressing both."
General Motors is building a future with "everybody in" by planning to offer accessible mobility with lower carbon emissions.
Buyer interest in electric vehicles (EVs) is robust across income levels and racial groups. A 2019 survey found 31 percent of consumers making less than $50,000 a year are considering an EV for their next purchase, compared with 39 percent of those making more than $100,000. The same survey found that among people of color, 42 percent are considering an EV for their next purchase, compared to 36 percent across the board.
%
of people of color are considering an electric vehicle for their next purchase.
The appeal of EVs goes beyond sustainability. When it comes to fuel cost, EVs are unmatched. For example, Chevrolet Bolt EV owners save an average of $6,000 in fuel costs over five years compared to the average new vehicle. And once customers have had experience driving EVs, they don't want to turn back. 94% of EV owners would consider purchasing another one for their next vehicle, according to a 2021 survey conducted by InMoment Research LLC.
%
of EV owners are open to purchasing another one.
General Motors aspires to make all new light-duty vehicles electric by 2035 to meet the expected customer demand for EVs. Within the next four years, the company plans to release more than 30 new EVs globally, two-thirds of which will be available in the U.S.
Within the next four years, the company plans to release more than 30 new EVs, two-thirds of which will be available in the U.S.
The basis for these new electric models is GM's Ultium Platform, an EV architecture that includes batteries and other propulsion systems like drive units, power electronics, and electric motors. The platform will allow more drivers to have affordable vehicle options, enabling widespread adoption of EVs.
The Ultium Platform was conceived to allow for a wide range of styles and designs. This flexibility means General Motors can offer vehicles to suit every customer's needs, from performance vehicles to work trucks, without sacrificing capability. Witness the new GMC Hummer EV, which GM estimates can accelerate as quickly as 0–60 in approximately three seconds (standard on Edition 1 truck and available on EV3x truck).
With GM's Ultium Platform, the mobility revolution can extend beyond consumer vehicles to the commercial realm. GM is working to electrify the transport system we depend on for deliveries with the recent launch of its new business, BrightDrop. BrightDrop's line of products, software, and services will help decarbonize commercial deliveries from the first mile to the last, with FedEx Express as a first customer. Initial products include the BrightDrop EV600, an electric light commercial vehicle purpose-built for the delivery of goods, and an electric pallet that can easily move goods over short distances—for example, from the delivery vehicle to a customer's front door.
HYDROTEC, GM's fuel cell program for rail networks, heavy trucks, and aircraft, can help pave the way for more communities and transportation industries to benefit from zero-emissions mobility. Fuel cells use hydrogen to provide power, emitting only water and heat when operating. The transition to sustainable delivery, rail, and air transport will mean you don't have to own a car or truck to experience the climate and air quality benefits.
While these innovative solutions at GM are aimed at helping to deliver an improved world for all, the company recognizes there are significant gaps for certain communities when it comes to their ability to participate in more sustainable technology. That's why GM has created a Climate Equity Fund, a new $25 million philanthropic fund to help support organizations that are closing the climate equity gap at the community level.
This philanthropic fund complements the company's $35 billion global investment in programs to build zero-emissions vehicles and charging infrastructure.
"Climate change does not impact every community equally. As we move to an all-electric, zero-emissions future, it is on us to lead positive change and implement inclusive solutions that bring everyone along, especially our employees and communities."
In addition to advancing climate equity with the Climate Equity Fund, the company is prioritizing its workforce, including support for unions; expanding EV access by developing models that will be offered at a range of prices; and developing an expansive charging network.
The world is driving toward a new horizon—one where cleaner air, a healthier climate, and universal mobility are in sight. GM is committed to bringing everyone along for the ride, no matter how you travel or where you live.