### G.M. CEO Mary Barra Confident in Electric Vehicle Future Despite Recent Challenges

Electric vehicles have faced numerous hurdles this year, with disappointing sales, criticism from public figures like former President Donald J. Trump, and even environmentally conscious consumers opting for hybrids over all-electric options. Despite these setbacks, General Motors' chief executive Mary T. Barra remains steadfast in her commitment to transitioning away from combustion engine cars by 2035.

Mary Barra believes that key factors such as sufficient charging infrastructure and the availability of affordable, appealing electric cars will drive consumer adoption of EVs. Remarkably, G.M. is on track to start turning a profit on its battery-powered models by the end of the year, joining Tesla as the only U.S. automaker to accomplish this. Recent sales trends suggest that G.M.'s electric vehicles are gaining traction, and the introduction of a new model priced under $30,000 after federal tax credit aims to make EVs more accessible.

While investments in electric vehicle initiatives by various automakers have experienced delays, Mary Barra confidently dismissed concerns that the transition to electric is losing momentum. G.M. is resolute in its 2021 pledge to eliminate sales of gasoline cars in the U.S. by 2035. This commitment from the country's largest automaker is vital, as the shift away from internal combustion engines significantly depends on G.M.'s actions.

At the heart of G.M.'s electric vehicle operations is the Ultium Cells facility in Spring Hill, Tennessee, a joint venture with LG Energy Solution. The facility is instrumental in addressing previous battery-manufacturing issues and is a crucial component of G.M.'s strategy to scale up its EV production. As Barra underscores G.M.'s dedication to this cause, the company positions itself as a pivotal force in the broader transition towards sustainable transportation.