3 years ago, the company didn't even build cars. GM has had nearly 100 years experience. Chinese cars are coming, and it seems to me that a plug-in like this could be the beachhead that they need to gain acceptance among US consumers. And strike fear in the hearts of the big 3. Remember, Toyota and Honda started building cheap economy cars, as kid Kia and Hyundai. All have proven to be forces in the market. BYD could be next, and it's interesting to note the Warren Buffet has invested.

http://www.treehugger.com/files/2008/12/byd-f3dm-electric-plug-in-hybrid-china.php