Japanese automaker Honda and U.S.-based General Motors Co. have announced a joint initiative to develop the technological underpinnings for affordable electric car production. The first production vehicle based on it should debut in five years/ time.
The manufacturers will thus expand their cooperation in eco-friendly transportation that started nine years ago. The new platform will find use in EVs sold the world over. Standardized production equipment and processes will ensure maximum cost savings at every stage.
First in the production queue is a compact and cheap crossover SUV for North America, which GM believes will be more wallet-friendly than the upcoming Chevrolet Equinox.
In addition to this, the two companies will unite efforts in designing and manufacturing traction batteries. No further information is available on this particular initiative, but it is general knowledge that Honda is looking into solid-state battery tech now, while GM pursues solid-state, lithium-metallic and silicon battery technologies.
A month ago, the Japanese automaker announced a partnership with Sony. The two companies will establish a joint enterprise in electric mobility and release their first vehicle in three years’ time.