Chevrolet to install solar-powered electric charging stations for Volts at dealerships in North America
29 July 2011
Chevrolet, in what it is calling its Green Zone initiative, will install solar-powered electric charging stations for its Volts at dealerships in North America. The Green Zone initiative will generate electricity equivalent to 12 full vehicle charges per day; excess electricity created will help supplement the dealership’s power needs.
American Chevrolet in Modesto, Calif., and Al Serra Auto Plaza in Grand Blanc, Mich., are the first US dealerships to complete their solar charging capability by installing Green Zones on their property.
Each canopy generates enough electricity for up to 4,500 charges per vehicle annually. The proof of concept for the Green Zone project is housed at the Detroit Hamtramck assembly plant, manufacturing home of the Volt.
The Chevy Green Zone Initiative is part of GM Ventures’ recent announcement to invest $7.5 million in Sunlogics, a solar panel manufacturing and development company that will supply the panels and install the dealer charging stations. (Earlier post.) Both American Chevrolet and Al Serra Chevrolet partnered with Sunlogics for installation of their Green Zones.
As part of the GM Ventures investment announcement in Sunlogics, General Motors committed to double its solar output globally—from 30 megawatts to 60 megawatts by 2015. The company derives 1.4% of its US energy consumption from renewable resources.
Excellent marketing decision.
Posted by: HarveyD | 29 July 2011 at 03:14 PM
Lots of green creds.. even better if the gov can be convinced to pay for it.
Posted by: Herm | 29 July 2011 at 10:50 PM