ABSTRACT

This chapter describes General Motors' (GM) thrust into reinventing the automobile around the emerging technologies of fuel cells and by-wire chassis systems. This programme has comprised three vehicle phases, each of which will be discussed in turn. The first is a concept vision, called AUTOnomy. The second is a proof-of-concept called Hy-wire. The third, and most recent, is a truly credible and compelling prototype called Sequel. Outside of the vehicle performance and design benefits, the AUTOnomy 'plug-and-play' concept between interchangeable body and common skateboard can also catalyse a reinvention of the automobile industry, where all facets of the business are profoundly changed. The GM Sequel was introduced in January 2005 at the North American International Auto Show and is the third phase of the reinvention of the automobile around the two emerging technologies of hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion and by-wire chassis control.