Chevy Volt: Can GM ressurect the dead?

Question

After killing the electric car in the 90s, General Motors is now promising a car they touted will revolutionize the auto industry. Can they do it?

http://www.autoneato.com/chevy-volt-can-gm-ressurect-the-dead/

Answer 1

Sure.  Some reasons.

Battery technology is way better.

People are more concerned about the environment, particularly global warming.

The sales of the Prius have warmed up the market.   Some people will want something "even better".

My major concern is that GMs target for battery only range is only 40 miles.  Over that they use a gas powered generator.

It's really more a "plug-in" hybrid than an electric.  Whether that concept is different enough for market success is a question.  The word "revolutionize" is clearly not warranted.

Answer 2

GM, R.V.P.!!! They had their chance so let them go to the end of the electric vehicle line. The idea that with all the known technology GM now wants to sell another electric vehicle is ludicrous. They are so far behind the other electric car companies that it probably would be 2010 before their car would be ready. By that time the other companies will be further advanced.

Spartawo...

Answer 3

I think they can.  So far Chevy has remained on schedule for a Volt release in late 2010, which is just 3 years away.  The Prius has proven that there's a big market for alternative fuel vehicles, and the market is only going to get bigger as more people grow concerned about high fuel prices and global warming.  I'm glad GM is finally catching on, and even on track to pass up Toyota with the greenest mass produced car available.  Toyota is working on a plug-in version of the Prius, but it probably won't be available for about 5 years yet.

Answer 4

I read that the Chevy Volt fuel consumption, after the battery is spent, is 50 miles per gallon! Average fuel consumption is about 21.5 miles per gallon.

"Long Drives

What about those weekend getaways or driving vacations? Concept Chevy Volt can tackle them.

At the start of your trip, you can drive approximately 40 miles on your charged electric battery. Then the range-extending power source will automatically come on to recharge the battery as required so that you can keep driving with either gasoline, E85 or biodiesel.

A trip like this will give you an estimated 50 equivalent miles per gallon using gasoline. Driving range between fill-ups could be as much as an outstanding 640 miles.(1)

   1. Actual range may vary depending on driving habits and driving conditions. Fuel economy estimates based on GM simulation data."

This, with the option to use a battery which is ample for most trips, and a decent price is seemingly a good package.

Answer 5

GM did not kill the electric car in the 90s, it died of terminal non competitiveness.