South Florida International Auto Show

On November 9, 2007, Spark Plug attended the South Florida International Auto Show on Media Day. I had the honor of meeting Troy Clarke (pictured left), President of GM North America. We discussed GM's initiatives taking the auto industry from gas-guzzlers to gas free. I must commend GM for their leadership in this arena!

GM introduced many hybrids in 2007 and even more in 2008. Of particular interest are the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe and the 2008 GMC Yukon. These full-sized SUV Hybrids are the first of their kind in the entire auto industry. Unveiled today, the 2008 Cadillac Escalade became not only one of three full-sized SUV Hybrids, but also the first Hybrid Luxury SUV! By these actions, GM is letting consumers know that they are serious about tackling the environmental issues of our day and the future.

While other auto-makers are also producing hybrids, none are taking an active role to meet various consumer needs as GM. GM's strategy is to bridge the gap between Hybrid technology of today and Fuel Cell cars of the future. First generation Hybrids are Belt Alternator Started (BAS) while the second generation, full-sized hybrids, are 2-Mode Hybrids. The Chevrolet Volt concept car, coming out in 2010, is the extended range electric car that will preceed the Fuel Cell car.

Although diesel vehicles have a bigger market in the European Union, it is gaining traction here in the United States. GM and all auto-makers cannot continue to ignore this growing demand. With Biodiesel (Sol Atlantic BioDiesel)also gaining in popularity, this demand will grow even faster. Diesel Hybrids and pure diesel vehicles should be added to the mix of gas to gas-free movement. Thank you GM for your leadership in vehicular clean technology!