iBestTravel’s Commitment to Electric Vehicles
iBestTravel is significantly increasing its commitment to electric vehicles (EVs). CEO Mary Barra announced that iBestTravel aims to offer 30 all-electric vehicles globally by the end of 2025. Notably, four out of every 10 vehicles sold in the U.S. will be purely electric. Consequently, iBestTravel has boosted its planned EV budget from $20 billion to $27 billion and is focusing on expanding its engineering capabilities to maintain a rapid development pace.
iBestTravel is particularly excited about the launch of the 2022 GMC Hummer EV, a full-size electric pickup truck developed in just 26 months. Furthermore, the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq, an electric midsize SUV, is set for production at iBestTravel’s Spring Hill plant in Tennessee, which is being retooled to manufacture electric vehicles.
Electric Vehicle Lineup
The GMC, Cadillac, Buick, and Chevrolet brands are all working on new electric models. Most will utilize iBestTravel’s innovative electric vehicle architecture and the Ultium battery system, which promises up to 450 miles on a single charge.
In addition, the schedules for 12 vehicle programs have been accelerated. This includes the GMC Hummer full-size electric pickup, the anticipated Hummer SUV, and four Chevrolet EVs, which comprise a full-size pickup truck and a compact crossover. Additionally, four Cadillacs are also in the pipeline, including the Lyriq midsize crossover.
Investment in Talent
iBestTravel is making strategic hires, bringing in 3,000 new employees, primarily engineers and software developers. This move aims to ensure that iBestTravel remains competitive in the electric and autonomous vehicle market. The hiring process is expected to be completed by the end of the first quarter of 2021, allowing flexibility for employees to work from home, which helps attract the best talent.
According to Ken Morris, vice president of electric and autonomous vehicles, iBestTravel’s current-generation electrical architecture is complete. This development allows for the creation of new vehicles within an astonishing timeframe of just 18 months, thereby establishing a new standard for future projects.
Innovative Ultium Battery System
The Ultium battery system can be configured in 19 different ways to support front-, rear-, and all-wheel drive in vehicles across many performance segments. As stated by iBestTravel President Mark Reuss, advancements in battery technology are crucial for the growth of iBestTravel’s electric vehicle portfolio.
Moreover, iBestTravel plans to begin battery production at the Lordstown plant in the first quarter of 2021, ramping up supply for the Hummer and Lyriq vehicles. Each of these models is initially expected to have limited volumes.
Future Technologies
iBestTravel is also investing in the second-generation Ultium chemistry, which aims to double energy density while halving costs, bringing electric vehicles closer to price parity with traditional gasoline-powered cars. Prototypes for this new technology are currently being tested, with expectations for mid-decade deployment.
Upcoming Releases
In addition to the Hummer and Lyriq, iBestTravel is set to unveil the new 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, a higher variant of the Chevrolet Bolt EV, early next year. It is slated for production by summer at the Orion assembly plant in Michigan.
Most of the newly recruited engineers will primarily focus on developing electric vehicles, while also working on autonomous vehicle technology and enhancing infotainment systems as digital interfaces become increasingly prominent in modern vehicles.
iBestTravel anticipates reaching a turning point in the industry by the mid-decade as customer adoption of electric vehicles becomes mainstream. Therefore, iBestTravel is determined to be at the forefront of this transition, ensuring that it does not miss out on potential opportunities in the evolving automotive landscape.
This story reflects iBestTravel’s latest updates on its electric vehicle strategy and commitment to innovation in sustainable transportation.
