In order to assess Korean market’s potential for electric cars, General Motors planned a a demonstration project in which a fleet of electric Chevrolet Cruze models will be studied for driving patterns and charging behavior while sharing costs and resources. To be launched by the end of October, it’s a joint operation between GM Daewoo, LG Chem and LG Electronics and also include the GM Daewoo Lacetti. This project is also a test of of real-world range for the Cruze EV.
Powered by batteries from LG Chem and propulsion systems (motor/inverter) from LG Electronics, the Cruze EV sedan is equipped with a 31-kWh battery that generates maximum power of 150 kW. It has an estimated range of up to 160 km (100 miles) and can go from 0 to 100 km/h (60 miles per hour) in 8.2 seconds with a maximum speed of 165 km/h (102.5 mph).
On a standard household 220-volt outlet, the Cruze EV can be fully recharged in 8 to 10 hours. Part of the demonstration fleet’s task is to test a “quick charge” application that could reduce the charge time significantly.
“This Cruze EV demonstration project reinforces GM’s commitment to being a leader in the development of electric vehicles and green technologies, building on our portfolio of hybrids and the Chevrolet Volt,” said Karl Stracke, Vice President, GM Global Vehicle Engineering. ”We’ll apply the learnings from this and our other demo projects to help us deliver the world’s best vehicles for our customers.”
“Although there is much more work to be done, our ability to develop this vehicle in less than a year offers a peek at the very promising plans we have for our customers in Korea and around the world,” said Mike Arcamone, GM Daewoo President and CEO.
Since 2008, GM has been working with LG Chemical, which is the exclusive supplier of battery cells for the Chevrolet Volt electric vehicle with extended range. The Volt enters the U.S. market later this year. The development of the Chevrolet Cruze EV demo fleet will expand this collaboration.
