GM’s OnStar powers smart grid pilot

Car giant General Motors is to launch its first real-world pilot of smart grid solutions for electric cars this year, paving the way for EV drivers to make use of lower cost recharging.

Supported by OnStar, GM’s in-car data service, hundreds of employees at regional utilities firms will drive leased Chevrolet Volts as their everyday vehicles to participate in the pilot. 

“In contrast to other OEMs who are only talking about smart grid technology, we’re moving beyond research and development projects to a program in the real world,” said Nick Pudar, OnStar vice president of planning and business development.

“Through this pilot we will see real-time results on how intelligent energy management can maximize EV charging efficiency and minimize the electric bill for EV drivers,” he added.

Using OnStar’s Advanced Telematics Operations Management System (ATOMS), a utility will be able to accurately monitor and manage the energy used by the vehicles. The data will give the utility insight into where and when EVs are charged and manage demand by shifting EV charging to non-peak hours.

About Faye Sunderland

Faye has been writing about cars and environmental issues since 2007. A suspected eco-warrior working on the corporate inside, Faye mainly likes the weird, quirky vehicles that show a distinct environmental advantage. Her ideal car has enough room to fit a bale of hay in the boot. When not working, she likes nothing better than to head out on her bicycle and explore the countryside.

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