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GM Defense said today that the US Department of Defense (DoD) Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) selected it to prototype an energy storage unit. This is part of the so-called Stable Tactical Expeditionary Electric Power (STEEP) program. STEEP seeks to support tactical microgrid and energy management capabilities in grim locations, reducing logistical requirements and the reliance on fossil fuels as the primary energy source across the DoD. (AutoInformed: GM Defense Expands into Global Markets)
“This contract award demonstrates our ability to leverage advanced commercial technologies and investments from our parent company, GM, to reduce warfighter fuel consumption, and lower acoustic and thermal signatures, while providing efficient energy at the tactical edge,” said Steve duMont, president of GM Defense.
GM Defense will use GM’s advanced electric vehicle propulsion architecture, the Ultium Platform, to deliver what it claims will be a scalable and adaptable energy storage unit that supports the tactical energy requirements of war. The prototype will provide uninterruptible and sustainable power for mission critical equipment, such as command and control, communications, radar and weapons systems in remote areas or where a stable power grid is absent. The STEEP energy storage system will provide intelligent tactical micro-grid capabilities that work with hydrogen-powered generators, stationary and mobile battery electric power or existing fuel-powered generators to support efficient power management and distribution.
“We are proud to win another contract award with DIU, whose mission to accelerate the adoption of commercial technology across the U.S. military aligns with our efforts to transition global defense and government customers to a more electric, autonomous and connected future,” said duMont.
GM Defense announced on 29 June 2023 that it incorporated GM Defense Canada, in alignment with GM Defense International, which was established in 2022. As GM Defense expands and pursues additional international programs, the formation of GM Defense Canada will support efforts to modernize the Canadian Armed Forces.
“The new entity strengthens our ability to develop solutions in Canada as we pursue important near term opportunities, such as the Light Utility Vehicle (LUV) and Light Forces Enhancement programs,” said Stephen duMont, president of GM Defense. “We will continue to leverage General Motors’ advanced commercial technology, engineering resources and investments in Canada that help our global defense and government customers transition to a more electric, autonomous and connected future.”
“The creation of a Canadian entity for defense underscores our commitment to Canada and our conviction that our engineering and manufacturing capacity right here in Canada can serve and help to modernize the Canadian Armed Forces,” said Marissa West, president of GM Canada. “We believe that GM Defense has a unique ability to offer best-in-class equipment, technology, and sustainment to support those who serve, and we are proud to do so.”