GM to Add Some Hybrid, Sustainable Aspects to Canadian Production

In an effort to reorganize its Canadian operations, General Motors envisions adding production of hybrids and other advanced alternative energy cars.

The moves include advanced research and development for next generation electric car systems, with suppliers and universities in Canada to benefit, according to a press release.

The positive news may not, in the short term, counter the worst news from GM regarding Canada. By 2010, GM will reduce its workforce there to just  7,000, down from nearly 20,000 in 2005 and about 12,500 today, according to the LayoffTracker blog. Worldwide, GM is cutting about 47,000 jobs.

In return for U.S. bailout funds, the Big Three automakers in December promised to make more hybrid and electric vehicles.