Did any GM EV1 survive?
Most GM EV1s were crushed, but a handful survived, most being donated to universities and research institutes as static pieces of EV history. A few are known to still be operational. Given their historic significance, their backstory and rarity, EV1s today are very expensive. Demise. Despite favorable customer reception, GM believed that electric cars occupied an unprofitable niche of the automobile market. The company ended production of the EV1 in 1999, after 1,117 examples had been produced over three years.
Why did GM discontinue EV1?
GM said the cars were too costly to produce and support long term. Because they were lease-only, the company repossessed and crushed nearly the entire fleet, citing liability concerns and limited spare parts. The decision remains one of the most debated episodes in automotive history. General Motors (GM) is under closer investor scrutiny after a series of recalls tied to the 6. L V8 L87 engine pushed warranty coverage costs higher and contributed to a US$1. See our latest analysis for General Motors.