In preparation for the planned 2010 launch of the Chevrolet Volt, General Motors Corp. is expected to announce a partnership with the Electric Power Research Institute this week to develop a recharging infrastructure and promote plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles, AutoTech Daily reported.
The San Jose, Calif.-based EPRI conducts research and represents utilities that generate more than 90 percent of the power in the United States. It currently is working with Ford Motor Co. to charge and evaluate a demonstration fleet of plug-in Escape SUVs.
Utility companies will play a key role in the future of EVs. In addition to supplying power to the vehicles, utilities could buy power back from the cars in peak hours. They also could be involved in leasing next-generation lithium-ion batteries to consumers or using recycled batteries to store energy for future use.
The initial Volt plug-in hybrid will have a driving range of 40 miles per on all-electric power. In addition to recharging through a standard electric outlet, a small onboard combustion engine will be used to partially charge the battery.
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