article thumbnail

ISU study finds large potential for biobased materials in auto industry, but with challenges

Green Car Congress

However, they noted, there are also many challenges associated with the use of biobased parts in the auto industry. Biobased materials may require substantial testing to ensure safety standards can be met. The Saturn L300 and European-market Opel Vectra have package trays and door panel inserts made of a kenaf and flax mixture.

article thumbnail

GM and Chrysler Submit Updated Restructuring Plans; Up to $18.6B More Needed; Outlines for Product Plans

Green Car Congress

The plans, updated in the context of a worsening sales outlook for the entire auto industry, outline a need for up to an additional $16.6 Saturn will remain in operation for the next several years, through the end of the planned lifecycle for all Saturn products.

Chrysler 150
article thumbnail

BrightDrop: GM’s silent push into electric commercial vehicles

Charged EVs

BrightDrop offers a fascinating window into the breadth of GM’s EV plans, though even many people in the auto industry know little about it. Thus, the restructured GM was composed of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac, while the Hummer, Pontiac, Saab and Saturn brands died. The BrightDrop Zevo 600. Photo courtesy of BrightDrop.

article thumbnail

How Carmakers Are Responding to the Plug-In Hybrid Opportunity

Tony Karrer Delicious EVdriven

Plans Saturn Vue PHEV-10. Aims to get Saturn Vue on road in 2010; no production goal. The XHT is a new generation of plug-in hybrid drive train ready to multiply the gas mileage of any SUV or any standard sedan." ( Company PressRelease ) BYD Auto top 2/3/08 BYD Auto Co., Plans "large demonstration fleet" late 2009.

Plug-in 45