GM Supports Restoration of Rare EV1, First Legally Sold Electric Car

The Revival of GM’s EV1: A Historic Restoration Project

In a twist that has reignited interest in one of the auto industry’s most enigmatic vehicles, a rare General Motors EV1 is being restored after a surprising purchase at auction. The EV1, a car never officially sold by GM, was acquired for an extraordinary $104,000, setting the stage for a restoration journey that has captured the attention of automotive enthusiasts and GM itself.

The EV1, produced during 1997 and 1999, was initially leased and subsequently recalled and mostly destroyed by GM in 2003. However, VIN 212, one of the few surviving units, has found its way back into the spotlight. The restoration, documented by the Questionable Garage YouTube channel, marks a significant shift in GM’s stance towards its pioneering electric vehicle.

General Motors has extended its support for the project, highlighting the EV1 as a crucial chapter in the history of electric vehicles. A GM representative stated, “We’re proud to support this project and excited to watch it unfold. The EV1 represents an important chapter in electric vehicle history and in the broader evolution of EVs. Supporting the restoration of V212 reflects our commitment to preserving that legacy and recognizing the engineers, designers and innovators who helped pioneer early electric mobility.”

The change in attitude from GM, once reticent to acknowledge the EV1, comes as a surprise to many. Mark Reuss, GM President, was personally moved by the project after viewing a video of the EV1 auction. This prompted him to instruct his team to reach out to the new owners and offer assistance.

GM’s involvement coincides with its broader commitment to electric vehicles, having launched a dozen EV models and reaffirming its goal of an all-electric future. The restoration of EV1 212 presents an opportunity for GM to publicly embrace a vehicle that, despite its historical significance, had been largely sidelined.

The excitement surrounding the restoration project has sparked enthusiasm among EV1 enthusiasts on social media platforms like Facebook and Discord. The timing aligns with anniversaries of the car’s production and the documentary Who Killed the Electric Car?, which delved into the vehicle’s controversial history.

In a recent episode of the docuseries featuring the restoration, Mark Reuss expressed his personal connection to the EV1, noting his father’s involvement in its creation. He also reflected on a legal document stating GM’s initial reluctance to support any EV1 restoration efforts, describing it as a “cool moment” that drew him into the project.

GM’s renewed interest in the EV1 is seen as a significant cultural shift, as former CEO Rick Wagoner once cited the discontinuation of the EV1 as his worst decision, admitting it affected the company’s image. Now, GM is committed to aiding the restoration of #212, providing essential parts like the windshield and quarter glass, crucial for the vehicle’s preservation.

The ongoing restoration of the EV1 not only revives a piece of automotive history but also underscores the evolving narrative of electric vehicles within General Motors. As the restoration progresses, GM’s involvement reflects a broader acknowledgment of the EV1’s legacy and its impact on the future of electric mobility.