Discovery Channel and GM are taking viewers behind the closely guarded doors of GM Design and into the minds of the automaker's innovative, forward thinking designers as part of a new, four-part documentary. Set to debut in 2007, the Discovery Channel program will examine the future of automotive engineering - from design and alternative fuel sources to advanced materials and in-vehicle electronics.

With exclusive access to the GM Design internship program, the documentary will include elite young designers as they develop eight vehicles - each based on GM's advanced hydrogen fuel cell technology - from initial sketches through digital models to finished design properties.

Along the way, viewers will get a rare look at the design studios, confidential proving grounds, aero labs and engineering centers that continue to yield amazing advances in automotive development.

"In working with GM, we are providing valuable information to consumers about how today's automotive designers and tomorrow's innovators are working to solve the challenges that impact so many of us on a daily basis," said Jane Root, executive vice president and general manager, Discovery Channel, The Science Channel and Military Channel. "Using GM as a backdrop for advancements in automotive design and engineering, Discovery Channel ultimately provides viewers with knowledge of how their lives will be impacted."

GM's eight design interns will help put a human face on the challenges facing the next generation of car designers. Each summer GM hosts interns from top schools, challenging them with real-world projects that enhance their skills and help them master the latest design technology. The program also helps GM recruit future designers for its network of 11 global design centers.

"GM Design's intern program allows students to create future vehicles in a working design center using the latest in methods and technology," said Ed Welburn, GM Vice President, Global Design, and an alumnus of the GM Design intern program. "My internship at GM, under the leadership of Bill Mitchell, nurtured my passion for design and helped prepare me for a career that I love. Our goal is to do the same for this year's interns."

CBS Productions is producing this documentary for Discovery Channel. For Discovery Channel, Charlie Parsons is the executive producer and for CBS Productions Rob Cohen is the executive producer and Matt Bennett is the senior producer.