EV1

EV1, short for Electric Vehicle 1, was a battery-electric passenger car produced by General Motors and released in the late 1990s. It emerged in response to California's zero-emission vehicle mandates and was offered primarily through a lease program in California and a few neighboring states. The program highlighted GM's early commitment to electric propulsion and became a focal point in public discussions about electric vehicles at the time.

Design and technology aspects were purpose-built for electric operation. The EV1 used nickel-metal hydride battery packs and a dedicated propulsion system with regenerative braking. It featured a fiberglass or composite body mounted on an aluminum safety structure, reflecting a lightweight approach intended to optimize efficiency. Charging options included standard household outlets as well as faster charging equipment available through participating dealers or programs.

Production and operations ran from 1997 to 1999, with approximately 1,100 vehicles completed. All units were leased rather than sold, and availability was geographically limited to California and selected markets. At the end of lease terms, GM began recalling the cars, and most vehicles were returned to the company. A large portion of the fleet was subsequently dismantled or destroyed, though a limited number were donated to museums or kept for research and display.

Legacy and impact of the EV1 are widely debated. It demonstrated the feasibility of a modern, mass-produced electric car and influenced later GM projects in electric drive technology and hybrid development. The program also intensified discussions about corporate strategy, vehicle rights, and the pace of electric vehicle commercialization, shaping public expectations for subsequent electric vehicles and fueling ongoing policy and industry scrutiny of early EV programs.