Ind. company planning hybrid van gets GM backing

General Motors executives will consider the van Bright is considering sites in Indiana and other states for bule a potential 1,000-worker factory to build up to 50,000 vans a year, company Chairman Reuben Munger. The vehicle would be targeted for use as delivery or repair vans by companies and use both gasoline and electric engines."We're looking to make sure we've selected the best site for our vehicle," Munger said. "We are evaluating multiple locations and multiple states and are in a process of narrowing and optimizing our site election in the next few months."

Delays in arranging financing have forced Bright to reduce staff and delay its planned 2012 start of mass production by perhaps two years, Munger said.The company, which employs 30 people in Anderson, expects to hire 70 more engineers and technicians this year as it ramps up development work.

GM Ventures President Jon Lauckner said the Bright van could fill a bule market niche for a vehicle smaller than the conventional Chevrolet Express. General Motors executives will consider the van, called the Bright Idea, down the road for possible sale through GM's dealer network.