The Petersen Automotive Museum has announced that it will open four brand-new exhibits later this year, one of which will feature two GM electric vehicles.
The Alternating Currents exhibit, which will open on August 3rd, 2024, is designed to highlight the evolution of EVs from the late 1800s to the modern concepts we see today. Located on the second floor in the Propulsion Gallery – and supported by BMW and Clarios – the 1969 GM XP 512E and 1990 GM Impact concepts are some of the vehicles selected for the display.
It’s worth noting that the 2002 Cadillac Cien Concept will also be displayed, albeit as part of a different exhibit.
1969 GM XP 512E
For starters, one of the earlier EV concepts in the Alternating Currents exhibit will be the 1969 GM XP 512E. While it may look like a Little Tikes Cozy Coupe, the XP 512E was designed for real-life use in congested areas or for short trips to the store. Powered by an 84-volt Delco-Remy lead-acid battery and DC Delco-Remy electric motor, this concept boasted a 58-mile range when meandering along at 25 mph. A 115-volt household outlet could charge the battery in roughly seven hours.
Interestingly, weight figures stood at 1,250 pounds, which may be heavy for its size but is certainly respectable considering the lead-acid battery onboard.
1990 GM Impact
As for the 1990 GM Impact, sharp-eyed readers may notice a striking resemblance between the concept and the General Motors EV1 of the 1990s. Well, they would be right, as the Impact ultimately gave rise to the widely-praised EV1. Powered by 32 lead-acid rechargeable batteries, the Impact served as a proof-of-concept for the Detroit-based automaker while work on the GM electric car program continued.
“This near-simultaneous launch of four incredibly diverse exhibits marks a milestone for our museum,” Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges stated. “We are committed to showcasing all elements of the automotive world–past, present and future – and this collection of unique vehicles will bring that experience to life for our guests.”
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Comments
Its a shame GM cancelled the EV1 ! And crushed most of them ! I had a chance to sit in one at the chicago auto show and it was really nice ! It had a 90 mile range so it would have easily got me to work and back and a few errands for the day ! Upgrading to the NMH Battery’s would have been a plus !
GM showcased the EV1 at the 1993 shareholder meeting in OKC. I owned a 1988 Pontiac Fiero at the time and noticed the EV1 was built from the same platform. The batteries replaced the rear engine, the interior was very similar. The early 90’s first generation Saturns also used the same space frame technology with plastic body panels. Lighter weight, hail and ding resistance made them very durable.