GM Korea CEO Kaher Kazem speaks during an online press conference, Wednesday. Courtesy of GM Korea

By Lee Kyung-min

GM Korea will roll out 10 electric vehicle (EV) models in Korea by 2025, in a bid to broaden consumer choices and strengthen its market presence here, the automaker's CEO said Wednesday. This is part of its U.S. head office's plan to invest $35 billion (41.3 trillion won) to roll out 30 EVs by 2025.

The envisioned new EVs will meet the needs of drivers with varying lifestyles and budgetary constraints, with models ranging from entry-level to SUVs and luxury models.

"GM Korea will pursue an EV market growth strategy in line with GM's EV market portfolio to expand customer options and experiences," CEO Kaher Kazem said during an online press conference at The-K Hotel in Seoul.

Chevrolet's Bolt EV and Bolt EUV Courtesy of GM Korea

For starters, the new Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV will be available in the market starting in the second quarter of this year.

The two models will accelerate the popularization of EVs in Korea, the automaker said. They are in a reasonable price range and are able to travel over 400 kilometers on a single charge.

He added that Ultra Cruise, a hands-free advanced driver-assist system (ADAS) unveiled last October, will be added to GM's lineup starting in 2023, with Cadillac being the first to introduce the technology.

Kazem said GM Korea's current manufacturing plants will continue operations for a smooth transition to manufacturing EVs, phasing out combustible engine vehicles.

Currently, GM Korea's plant in Incheon's Bupyeong District manufactures Chevrolet Trailblazers and its Changwon plant in South Gyeongsang Province plans to start producing next-generation global crossover vehicles next year.

GM will strengthen Ultifi, the carmaker's end-to-end software platform designed to enhance driving and vehicle experience.

The platform will help enable the frequent and seamless delivery of software-defined features, apps and services to customers, according to the firm. It offers the potential for more cloud-based services, faster software development and new opportunities to increase customer loyalty.

Ultifi will be available for vehicles showcased at the CES 2022 including the Chevrolet Silverado, Equinox EV and Cadillac Celestiq.