GM R&D has a long history of innovation.
2000s: First automotive use of nanocomposite materials; industry first quick-plastic-formed aluminum panels; VehSim virtual chassis/driveline controls simulation; first virtual crash laboratory; SIMTHRU manufacturing throughput simulation; industry first vehicle-to-vehicle communications system demonstration; six-speed transmissions; industry first FEA-compatible front crash sensing algorithm; FlexFuel and hybrid vehicle technologies; AUTOnomy, Hy-wire, and Sequel fuel cell/by-wire concept vehicles; electric wheel-hub motors; high-power density fuel cell stack and propulsion system; E-Flex flexible electric drive system.
1990s: StabiliTrak electronic stability control system; magneto-rheological fluid-controlled suspension; EV1 electric vehicle; OnStar safety & security service; industry’s first virtual design environment.
1980s: Magnequench rare-earth magnets; first engine oil-change indicator.
1970s: First catalytic converter; first production airbag; first computer crash simulation.
1960s: Energy-absorbing steering column; electric and fuel cell vehicle concepts.
1950s: America’s first turbine-powered car; first computer operating system;
GMR-Dodrill mechanical heart, first such device successfully used during surgery.
1940s: First high-compression internal combustion engines.
1930s: First non-flammable, low-pressure refrigerants, which made vehicle and home refrigeration practical.
1920s: First anti-knock gasoline additives, which led to high-performance fuels.
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