GM Considers Unplugging Electric Car

DETROIT —  General Motors Corp., looking to cut costs and restore profit, said this week that it is reviewing its Impact electric car program but has made no decision whether to scrap or delay it.

The troubled auto maker has approached rivals Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler Corp. about expanding Big Three collaboration on electric vehicles beyond the existing consortium formed to share research on new battery technology.

“The electric vehicle program is under review, but right now we’re proceeding with the program,” said GM spokesman Charles Licari. “GM obviously has been looking at anything and everything within its stable . . . as evidenced by the plant announcements last week.”

Last week, GM said it will close or sell nine factories, including two assembly plants, over the next several years.

GM’s board of directors reportedly discussed Monday whether the money-losing auto maker should cut the budget for the Impact, delay its introduction or seek a joint venture partner. But board members contacted Monday declined to comment on the subject.