Kristen Siemen, Chief Sustainability Officer at General Motors, discusses the current state of the EV market, GM's plans for the industry, and key takeaways from COP28. Topics include charging infrastructure, efforts to bring down EV prices, battery raw materials, EV supply chain risks, and the role of COP meetings in achieving EV and carbon neutrality goals.
EV sales continue to grow rapidly despite negative discourse, and GM aims to make EVs accessible and affordable for a wider population.
GM recognizes the importance of charging infrastructure and is actively involved in partnerships and investing in infrastructure development.
Deep dives
The EV market and the discourse surrounding it
Despite recent negative discourse about electric vehicles (EVs), data shows that EV sales continue to grow rapidly. General Motors (GM) recognizes the importance of a transition to an all-EV future but acknowledges the need for infrastructure development and improvement. GM has partnered with Pilot and Flying J in the US to implement charging stations at major truck stops. They are also working with seven other OEMs to expand the charging network across the country. By introducing new EV models, such as the Silverado EV pickup truck, the Equinox EV, and the Blazer EV, GM aims to make EVs accessible and affordable for a wider population. GM remains committed to achieving their goal of having all light-duty vehicles with zero tailpipe emissions by 2035.
The state of EV charging infrastructure worldwide
The state of EV charging infrastructure varies across different countries and regions. The US and Europe are making significant progress in expanding charging infrastructure, while other regions, like South America, are experiencing slower growth. GM recognizes the vital role of charging infrastructure and aims to accelerate its rollout. They are actively involved in partnerships and have committed over $750 million to support charging infrastructure development. Additionally, GM is working with its dealerships to implement charging stations in communities and promote education about EV charging. Their goal is to make charging stations more accessible and familiar to the public, similar to the presence of gas stations.
Cost reduction and the supply chain for EVs
GM is focused on achieving profitability with EVs and reducing the cost barrier for consumers. Their strategy includes continuous innovation, incremental improvements in range efficiency and cost efficiency, and more efficient manufacturing processes. As for the supply chain, GM has secured all the necessary raw materials for their volume goals up to 2025. They are also involved in the production of critical minerals like lithium through partnerships. GM emphasizes the importance of a robust and sustainable supply chain, working closely with suppliers who are committed to ESG standards. With the acceleration of innovation and increased supply, GM is confident in bringing down the costs of EVs and ensuring a reliable supply of materials.
An interview with Kristen Siemen from General Motors
On this bonus episode recorded live from COP28, Ed Crooks meets Kristen Siemen, Chief Sustainability Officer at General Motors. She sits down with Ed to discuss the current state of the EV market, GM’s plans for the industry and the key takeaways from the conversations at the summit.
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