GM success: Chevy Volt

GM’s future success primarily depends on the success of the Chevy Volt and the Camero.
The Volt is said to go on the market in late 2010, as a 2011 model year. Since conception GM has been working hard to develop a battery to power the car. Since this will be such a revolutionary car GM plans to sell the Volt at $30,000, but first versions might be $40,000. The battery will last the first 40 miles and then a gas generator will kick in, that can be driven 400 miles on a full tank of gas. This type of technology will save consumers money on gas in the long run. Thus, once more electric powered cars are on the road, the cost of gasoline will decline and lessen our dependence on foreign oil.

Since the Volt will be the first full electric car, it will boost GM’s image and customer appeal. Customers today want “green” products that will reduce pollution, and this car will affect driver’s daily impact. Having an electric engine, the car will not produce harmful fumes that escape into the atmosphere.

I haven’t heard of any other GM competitors trying to develop a concept like this. So in order for GM to emerge from bankruptcy it might be strategic for them to release the car for a few years, and then sell their design to its competitors. They should make a contract, so they will a get a percentage of the sales of the cars. Thus they will be profiting from their own sales and also making a small profit from its competitors. This portion of GM’s small profit could be put forth towards research and development for future models and consumer surveys, to develop the quality of their cars.

Links:
http://gm-volt.com/chevy-volt-faqs/