NAIAS production vehicles

The strength of light trucks and crossovers in North America was on display as a majority of the all-new vehicles debuting at the event were for those segments of the industry. This special edition of Global Vehicles provides highlights of new-vehicle technology for 2003 and beyond.

General Motors Corp. will offer optional hybrid powertrains on several of its most popular models including trucks, SUVs, and midsize sedans starting in late 2003, GM President and CEO Rick Wagoner announced at the North American International Auto Show.

“This is a major commitment to offer consumers three different hybrid propulsion systems on three vehicle architectures, representing more than a dozen of our most popular models,” Wagoner said. “If consumers were to select the hybrid option on all of the models included in our multi-year plan, it could eventually exceed 1 million vehicles.” Wagoner believes that, because hybrids cost several thousands of dollars more than conventional vehicles, consumer-based tax credits will play a critical role in gaining market acceptance by making the technology more affordable.