General Motors aims to become carbon neutral by 2040
General Motors (GM) will target carbon neutrality across its operations and products globally by 2040, while also committing to set science-based targets that would deliver net-zero emissions ten years later.
The company will offer 30 all-electric models globally, with EVs expected to account for 40% of US market entries by the end of 2025
GM plans to become carbon neutral in its global products and operations by 2040 and will set science-based targets that are aligned to the net-zero trajectory for 2050. The company has also signed the Business Ambition Pledge for 1.5⁰C.
“General Motors is joining governments and companies around the globe working to establish a safer, greener and better world,” the company’s chief executive Mary Barra said. “We encourage others to follow suit and make a significant impact on our industry and on the economy as a whole.”
With GM’s products accounting for 75% of carbon emissions covered by the new commitment, the company will ramp up its electric vehicle (EV) portfolio.
The company will offer 30 all-electric models globally, with EVs expected to account for 40% of US market entries by the end of 2025.
Last year, GM committed $20bn on electrifying its vehicle portfolio by 2025. The company confirmed that new pure EVs will be launched by GM’s four biggest brands – Chevrolet, Cadillac, GMC and Buick – by the end of 2022. The first launches will be the Cadillac Lyriq, fully electric SUV, and an updated Bolt EV, under the Chevrolet brand. However, GM has confirmed that investment will be increased to £27bn by 2025.
Off the back of that announcement, edie spoke to GM’s chief sustainability officer Dane Parker. As part of the video interview, Parker explained how GM temporarily pivoted its manufacturing process to create protective equipment for frontline workers combatting Covid-19 and how the coronavirus could help shift the public perception towards the EV revolution. Watch the interview here.
As the 10th largest purchaser of renewable energy globally, GM will also increase clean energy uptake. The company will aim to source 100% renewable power for its owned sites globally by 2035 and by 2030 in the US – five years earlier than a previous target.
GM will also collaborate with suppliers to create targets for supply chain decarbonisation, improved transparency and sustainable sourcing. The company will also try to limit the number of offset credits used in decarbonisation plans.
Matt Mace
