GM Bailouts was a huge article last year stretching into this year. GM is embracing the future by doing something that will hopefully make the bailout history and allow them avoid being in that position again and allow GM to compete in the very near future.

GM will expand its in-house electric vehicle development capabilities by becoming the first major U.S. automaker to design and manufacture electric motors, a core technology for hybrids and electric vehicles.

By doing so, GM will lower costs and improve performance, quality, reliability and manufacturability of electric motors by controlling design, materials selection and production processes. The first GM-designed and built electric motors are scheduled to debut in 2013 in next-generation, rear-wheel-drive Two-mode Hybrid technology.

“Electric motor innovation supported the first wave of automotive growth a century ago with the electric starter, which eliminated the need for a hand crank, and revolutionized automotive travel for the customer,” said Tom Stephens, GM vice chairman, Global Product Operations. “We think the electrification of today’s automobiles will be just as revolutionary and just as beneficial to our customers. Electric motors will play a huge role in that.”

Bravo General Motors. You seem to be stepping in the right direction for your future. Can’t wait to see an 100% all-American electric vehicle built.

[ Links: General Motors, GM Media - Electrical Motors Announcement ]