GM to Keep Powertrain Options Open

General Motors Co. will continue to develop and offer a range of different propulsion technologies for future vehicles, Dan Nicholson, the company's vice president of global powertrain operations, tells Automotive News. He says such a diverse portfolio is needed to meet more stringent fuel economy and emissions regulations, as well as various consumer preferences and competitive forces.

At the same time, Nicholson acknowledges, not all of the technologies will pan out. He likens the success rate to that of an investment portfolio with a target of 80% to 90%. He notes that it also is necessary to take a long-term approach and to be flexible and agile when developing new systems.

Consumers are interested in more than just fuel efficiency and horsepower when evaluating alternative powers systems, Nicholson says. This can include driving range and drive characteristics. For example, a diesel engine's superior low-speed torque is viewed favorably, he points out.

Nicholson believes there is a future for both dual-clutch and continuously variable transmissions in the U.S. Noting that GM already offers the latter in the Chevrolet Spark small car, Nicholson predicts an upswing in applications in coming years. GM offers DCTs in some models in China and is ready to bring the technology to the U.S. when demand warrants, he says.

GM also will continue to partner with competitors and suppliers when it makes sense. Nicholson says GM wants to be the "partner of choice" on advanced development projects to best leverage its resources and enhance its position as innovation leader.