Currently reading: GM to build Volt in Detroit

Hamtramck plant will start producing Volt prototypes in 2010

General Motors has confirmed it will build its forthcoming Chevrolet Volt at its Hamtramck plant in Detroit.

Production of prototype vehicles is expected to start in the spring, with full production beginning later in 2010.

GM will build the Volt on Hamtramck’s existing production line while other components, including its lithium ion batteries, will be built at other GM sites in the US.

Jon Lauckner, GM vice president of global product planning, said, “The Detroit-Hamtramck plant is expected to be the first facility in the US owned by a major auto maker to produce an electric car.

“With GM at the lead, electric vehicle development is creating entire new industries. This includes battery developers, builders of home and commercial charging stations, and power control and electric motor suppliers.”

European-spec Volts, badged as Vauxhall/Opel Amperas, will initially be built at Hamtramck, before production moves to a European site.

New Opel CEO said yesterday that Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant is one of the leading contenders for Ampera production.

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