GM-Shanghai Auto alliance unveils electric networked vehicle concept

24 Mar 2010

General Motors and the Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp Group (SAIC) have jointly developed a prototype electric vehicle called EN-V (or electric networked vehicle), which they claim is among the most promising new vehicles for urban transport in the future.

EN-V, three models of which were unveiled today in Shanghai, is a two-seat electric vehicle designed to address the problems of traffic congestion, parking space, air quality and affordability.

The new vehicle is among the most promising of several solutions for personal mobility through a radical change in personal urban transportation, General Motors said in a website release.

GM and its strategic partner SAIC are exploring several solutions for tomorrow's drivers, the release added.

The concept vehicles will be showcased from 1 May through 31 October at the SAIC-GM pavilion at World Expo 2010 Shanghai.

"EN-V reinvents the automobile by creating a new vehicle DNA through the convergence of electrification and connectivity. It provides an ideal solution for urban mobility that enables future driving to be free from petroleum and emissions, free from congestion and accidents, and more fun and fashionable than ever before," said Kevin Wale, president and managing director of the GM China Group.