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GM Autonomy

GM Autonomy

Announced: 2002 Detroit auto show
High-tech applications: Fuel cell, by-wire controls, mechanicals under the floor

The GM Autonomy concept was essentially a "skateboard" that contained the main mechanical parts in a flat, 6-in.-thick compartment beneath the passenger compartment. The concept car had a hydrogen-powered fuel cell, with an electric motor at each wheel. It had no transmission, no axles, no exhaust system, and no radiator. By-wire technology took the place of mechanical linkages for the steering wheel and the pedals. As a result, the chassis could be "docked" with different bodies, the way a laptop docks in a work station.