interview with Mary Barra general motors CEO

In an exclusive interview, Barra clarified the company's previously stated intention to eventually phase out gas-powered cars.

Q1: Would you please explain the company's plan regarding electric vehicles?
"I wouldn’t say we’re recommitting," of the company's pledge, first announced more than six years ago. "You know, we said back in 2018 that we’re committed to an all-electric future. But as we make this transformation, it’s going to happen over decades. And that’s why I couldn’t be more proud of our gas-powered fleet as well." Actually GM is aiming to exclusively sell electric vehicles by 2035.

Q2: Are you actually planning to stop providing gas vhicles?
Last spring, GM announced it was discontinuing its Chevy Bolt EV, which had previously made up the vast majority of the company's electric vehicle sales, in favor of a new EV platform called Ultium that serves as the battery system across its remaining electric fleet. GM now has offerings for virtually any consumer preference, whether it's gas or electric.

Q3: Do you think there could be a collaboration between GM and other electric car manufacturers?
Well, actually Tesla continues to dominate EV sales in the U.S., and although it has gradually given up some market share, it continues to command 50% of EV purchases. We are working to provide EVs which will have access to Tesla charging stations, as well as those managed by Pilot Flying J — something that will help alleviate concerns about EV charger availability. Barra expressed hope that further expansion of the EV charging network will make choosing an electric vehicle easier for consumers. GM has seen success in EVs for at least one its more recent models. Kelley Blue Book data reported by Cox showed about 1 out of every 6 Cadillac purchases is an electric vehicle — the most of any brand not focused entirely on EVs. Cadillac was also one of nine manufacturers that recorded more than 50% year-on-year growth in EV sales.