WARREN, Mich. (AP) - For consumers tired of paying the prices at
the pump, the technology can't be ready soon enough.
General Motors is installing lithium-ion batteries in test
vehicles like those to be used in the extended-range plug-in
electric Chevrolet Volt planned for launch in two years.
GM says the batteries are being tested in special versions of
the Chevrolet Malibu.
The Volt can be recharged by being plugged into a household
outlet. The vehicle would be powered by an electric motor fed by
the lithium-ion batteries.
Fully charged, the Volt could drive about 40 miles without using
any gasoline. A small conventional engine would recharge the
vehicle, extending its range, allowing it to get the equivalent of
150 miles per gallon.