Howard University's GM EV1: A Rare Automotive History Preserved
Howard University is making a bold statement: their rare GM EV1 is not abandoned, and it should not be towed, impounded, or auctioned off. This clarification is crucial, especially after a similar fate befell another university-owned EV1. The university's College of Engineering and Architecture wants to ensure the EV1's preservation, as it represents a significant piece of automotive history.
The GM EV1, a bright red two-door from the late 1990s, stands as a testament to the evolution of electric vehicles. Despite its stationary state for years, Howard University's EV1 is far from abandoned. The university's proactive stance is a stark contrast to the recent auction of another university-owned EV1, which was marked as abandoned and sold for $104,000.
The story of the GM EV1 is a fascinating one. GM built 1,117 of these vehicles in the late 1990s, leased them out, and eventually crushed most of them. However, around 40 were saved, including one for the Smithsonian and others for museums and universities. Howard University's EV1 is one of these preserved pieces, and its inclusion on the Hemmings list further emphasizes its historical significance.
The university's proactive approach to preserving this automotive history is commendable. By clarifying the status of their EV1, Howard University is ensuring its longevity and preventing a potential loss. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding historical artifacts, even if they are not currently in use. The university's efforts are a testament to the power of education and the preservation of our automotive heritage.
