The new electrically-powered Spark is expected to be launched in India in 2010
US-based General Motors has teamed up with India's low-cost electric cars manufacturer, Reva to develop a plug-in version of the GM Spark mini-car, reported Yahoo, quoting American Free Press as its source.
Reportedly, both the companies informed that the new electrically-powered Spark mini-car is expected to be launched in India in 2010, and that they saw an eventual market abroad for the vehicle, which is aimed at city commuters.
Karl Slym, head of the Indian unit of GM, said: "Both our companies have had technology teams working together for many months. I can say with great confidence that in 12 months an electric Spark will be on Indian roads."
The US auto major will piggyback Reva's electric battery-powered technology onto its Chevrolet Spark, which has sold 3.5 million units around the world. The car is expected to have an automatic transmission.
Nick Reilly, president of GM International Operations, said: "Development of small electric vehicles is a growth area around the global automotive industry. This cooperation with Reva will accelerate GM's progress to meet the emerging needs in many parts of the world."
In August 2009, GM took the wraps off its Chevrolet Volt petrol-electric hybrid, an electric vehicle with back-up gasoline power for longer journeys that will go on sale in 2010. The Reva, which can seat two adults and two children, can cover 80 kilometres (50 miles) on a single charge of electricity. New planned models is expected to offer greater distance.
SOURCE: automotive-business-review
