Green Agenda 2007 (Part 1)

David Paterson, General Motors Canada Vice President Corporate and Environmental Affairs.

Of course, battery technology is often seen as the biggest challenge in this type of vehicle. When asked about where the industry is with battery technology, Beatty contentedly remarked "well, when the new Prius comes out, you'll see where we are with battery technology."

Batteries and hybrids aside, GM Canada's VP of Corporate and Environmental Affairs, David Patterson, talked about the importance of pushing fuel and engine technology.

"Consumers are interested in environment, yes, but they want more affordable choices" he said. "More choice in fuels is very important. Look at E85 -- it can cut emissions to a level that's on par with hydrogen-powered cars, and the government is talking about incentives for it too."

Patterson also claims that GM's cylinder-deactivation technology is a real force to be reckoned with, saying that it has reduced greenhouse gas more than any competitor's hybrid technology.

GM's upcoming plug-in electric car, the Volt, will prove that you don't have to be ugly to be green, Patterson said. "Plug it in, you'll get a 60-kilometre range to get you to and from work, and never have to visit the gas station again!"
photo:Ford, Toyota, General Motors