Chevy Volt to Recharge with Clean Solar Power

General Motors announced today it has selected Envision Solar to install its CleanCharge solar powered electric-vehicle (EV) charging stations integrated into EnvisionTrak tracking Solar Trees at a number of locations. This is a highly engineered parking lot solar array that is 20 to 25 percent more productive than conventional fixed solar arrays.

The Solar Tree with EnvisionTrak incorporates dual access tracking which enables the canopy to follow the sun throughout the day.

“We are pleased to have been selected by General Motors for these strategic installations that will enable Chevy Volts to leverage clean solar power to recharge their batteries without relying on carbon fuel generated electricity,” said Bob Noble, CEO of Envision Solar. “We applaud GM’s commitment to clean energy as well as green job creation through this initiative.”

The Chevy Volt extended-range electric car is expected to hit showrooms in November 2010 and will be rolled out initially in California, Michigan, Washington, D.C., Texas and New York. New Jersey and Connecticut will join in mid-2011.

“GM is committed to reducing carbon emissions and reliance on petroleum,” said Tom Stephens, GM vice chairman, global product operations. “We chose Envision Solar because its clean charging infrastructure allows us to maximize the environmental benefits of our electric vehicles through the use of clean renewable energy and further demonstrates our commitment to the proliferation of sustainable EV charging infrastructure.”

Envision Solar’s system will be used at the Warren Technical Center and Milford Proving Ground, while the Detroit-Hamtramck assembly center already has 10 stations in place powered by photovoltaic systems from SunLogics.