March 7, 2008 - GM has retooled its hybrid engine technology with an advanced lithium-ion battery that helps deliver nearly three times more power than the system it replaces. The second-generation GM Hybrid System, which debuted this week at the Geneva Motor Show, is expected to boost fuel economy for GM hybrid cars and trucks by up to 20%, according to the automaker.

The new system builds on the road-tested belt-alternator-starter hybrid technology currently available in some Saturn and Chevrolet hybrid car models. Building on a proven technology makes the new hybrid system cheaper and easier to incorporate into GM's vehicle portfolio, according to GM chairman Rick Wagoner. In addition, the increased power from the lithium-ion battery will allow the next-generation system to be used with a wider range of engines, including high-efficiency turbocharged engines, biofuel engines, and diesels, he says.

"In order to have a real impact in reducing oil consumption, oil imports, and CO2 emissions, advanced technologies must be affordable enough to drive high-volume applications," says Wagoner. "We plan to roll out this next-generation hybrid technology globally, across our brands and regions, starting in 2010 in North America, and we expect that volumes will eventually exceed 100,000 units annually."

The announcement comes on the heels of last month's media stir surrounding GM vice chairman Bob Lutz's comments calling global warming into question. Despite his skepticism on climate change, Lutz is a major proponent of zero-emission electric vehicles, which the company has been pursuing as well.

Hitachi Vehicle Energy Ltd., a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Hitachi Ltd., will supply the lithium-ion battery for the new GM Hybrid System.