Shanghai GM aims to boost fuel economy by 15% in 5 years
General Motors Co. says its joint venture with Shanghai Automotive Industry Co. will introduce 12 new engines plus advanced technology over the next five years in a bid to improve fuel economy by 15 percent.
GM offered few details about specific powertrains, although its statement indicated plans to introduce a 1.5-liter variable-valve engine and a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine.
The company estimates that engines with displacements ranging from 1.4 liters to 2.5 liters will account for 95 percent of Shanghai GM's sales in the future.
The company also indicated that it plans to introduce some of its most sophisticated powertrain technology in China. GM will:
--Equip Chinese vehicles with GM's S6 transmission, plus stop-start systems and gasoline direct injection;
-- Unveil an electric-powered Chevrolet New Sail prototype later this year;
-- Launch a hybrid-powered Buick LaCrosse plus the Chevrolet Volt plug-in hybrid in 2011. The LaCrosse hybrid will boast 20 percent better fuel economy than the conventional version, while the Volt can travel up to 60 kilometers on its batteries alone.
-- Meet the Euro V emission standards, which China will adopt in 2012.
