America's largest car manufacturer has taken a break from petrol consumption and has committed to cease production of all gasoline and diesel-powered cars, sports utility vehicles and light pick-ups by 2035

General Motors

The task will be huge : only about 20,000 of the 2.55 million vehicles the company sold in its domestic market last year were electric.

General Motors has announced its goal of "eliminating tailpipe emissions" within 14 years as it accelerates plans to electrify its vehicles. Mary Barra, president and chief executive officer, said the company sought to "set an example of responsible leadership in a world facing climate change.