General Motors India (GMI) showcased an electrc version of its small car, ‘Beat’, as part of a global demonstration of the technology in June 2011. It was rumoured the Beat Electric could see an 2011 market launch.
The electric Beat is powered by a lithium-ion battery and can go at least 130 km in a single charge under normal driving conditions. The battery-powered minicar boasts a range of 130 kilometers and takes approximately eight hours using a 240-volt outlet to recharge from empty. The Beat makes use of a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery pack that tips the scales at 595 pounds and is rated at 20 kWh. The electric motor cranks out 45 kW (60 horsepower), which is directed to the wheels via a single-speed drive unit.
GM’s new President and Managing Director, Mr Lowell C. Paddock said the recently-developed electric car for the Indian market was ready for launch but it will hold it back until the Government eases norms for EVs as well as develops the appropriate infrastructure for the same.
GM India is already offering a range of alternate fuel vehicles including Chevrolet Beat LPG, Chevrolet Spark LPG and Chevrolet Aveo CNG to its valued customers.
GM has already established battery leadership. It has one of the most advanced battery labs in the world at its Technical Center in Warren, Michigan in the United States and will be opening a new battery lab in China soon.
GM has already announced demonstration programs in Korea, China and Germany. The company is committed to delivering customers around the world with electrification solutions that best fit their lives, including the industry’s first extended-range electric vehicles: Chevrolet Volt and Opel Ampera.
