GM is developing a network of EV component suppliers in China and will validate parts there for global use, says Ray Bierzynski, executive director of electrification strategy at GM China.

"We will look at key areas -- batteries, traction drive systems, control systems -- and encourage the local supply base so we can have strong local suppliers for both GM in China and globally," Bierzynski said in an interview.

GM is developing an EV architecture in China with SAIC Motor Corp. of Shanghai. GM and SAIC will use the architecture globally for their own purposes, the companies said when they announced the agreement in September.

The architecture will be developed at the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center, or PATAC, a 50-50 design and engineering venture in Shanghai between GM and SAIC.

PATAC also will validate electric vehicle parts sourced in China, says Bierzynski, who previously headed PATAC.

GM must develop local suppliers to meet the Chinese government's localization requirements for foreign automakers.

They are likely to be local companies that are cooperating with foreign suppliers, says Bill Russo, president of Synergistics Ltd., a consulting firm in Beijing.

GM will evaluate Chinese-made batteries at its Advanced Technical Center in Shanghai, Bierzynski says. The center opened in September and has a battery cell testing lab and a battery materials lab.

Chinese-made parts will be used in electric versions of the Chevrolet Sail in 2012 and the Chevrolet Spark in 2013, says Michael Omotoso, senior manager of global powertrain forecasting at LMC Automotive Ltd. The electric Sail will be sold only in China. The electric Spark will go on sale in the United States in 2013 and in Europe in 2014, Omotoso says.