Students in Hybrid and Electrical Mechanic Training Will Want to Know about General Motors’ New Goal for 2035
Following the increased demand for environmentally-conscious manufacturing efforts, General Motors has released a new announcement that is of particular interest to those interested in hybrid and electrical vehicles. By 2035, General Motors aims to produce more electric vehicles, making it the majority of its line-up. And in another five years, General Motors plans to be completely carbon neutral.
This move further enforces the popularity of hybrid and electric cars, which will mean that we’ll likely see them more regularly on the road. Those studying hybrid and electrical vehicles might want to know the extent of General Motors’ promises and the details of its announcement. Here’s a deeper look into what we can expect from General Motors in the future!
GM’s Transition into an All-Electric Future
In January 2021, General Motors (GM) released a new logo that reflects its intentions to focus on hybrid and electric vehicles—arguably, a prelude to its recent announcement regarding its commitment to energy efficiency and carbon neutrality. Backed up by a $27 billion investment (over $34 billion CAD), GM is set to release more electric vehicles in the next five years—introducing 30 all-electric models at a global scale, which means that 40% of GM’s models will include electric vehicles by the end of 2035.
By relying on science-based targets, focusing on electrification and renewable energy, GM plans to be completely carbon neutral by 2040—even signing the Business Ambition Pledge for 1.5⁰C to further solidify its goals. Through its collaboration with the Environmental Defence Fund, GM will set out to realize an all-electric future, working to remove tailpipe emissions by 2035 while promoting the charging infrastructure to sustain these efforts.
Breaking Down GM’s New Goals for Carbon Neutrality and Energy Efficiency
GM established big goals in their announcement, but they have also provided a guideline for how they plan to execute them. For starters, GM will increase fuel efficiency by focusing on new zero-emissions technology as well as battery electric vehicles. Similarly, GM will also begin sourcing 100% renewable energy to power its local and international sites (with an estimated deadline of 2030 and 2035 respectively).
Those in hybrid and electrical mechanic training might also be interested in knowing how the company plans to promote and encourage the use of electric vehicles. According to its announcement, GM will be making changes to its supply chain and infrastructure. In an effort to realize its carbon neutral commitment, GM has created a sustainability council to guide its future progress—increasing the use of sustainable materials and reducing emissions.
Notable Mentions for Hybrid and Electrical Mechanics
Hybrid and electrical mechanics should know that GM will still be selling gas-fuelled models in addition to the new electric vehicles. Additionally, GM revealed that they will rely on carbon credits to offset pollution whenever the elimination of carbon emissions is not feasible. Acknowledging that carbon offsetting is not the ideal solution, GM has shown an interest in exploring more efficient alternatives as the field of sustainable energy continues to develop.
While these claims are impressive and noteworthy, it’s important to keep a realistic outlook—considering the full scale and practicality of this endeavour. Ultimately, these goals are referred to by the company as “aspiration,” and are not considered promises. Those interested in hybrid and electrical vehicles should keep this in mind moving forward (though the future is definitely looking optimistic).
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