government motors and the volt.

[billc]

Here is an article that looks at the Volt. It is from biggovernment.com and looks at the bailout and the volt.

http://biggovernment.com/pflaherty/2011/03/10/government-motors-part-iv-the-chevy-volt/

Last week, the Volt, GM’s signature hybrid vehicle, turned in a lackluster performance in its first series of road tests by Consumer Reports. CR told Reuters on Monday that “when you look at the finances, [the Volt] doesn’t make any sense.”

 

[Steve]

Duh. I said that a couple months ago. I am, however, more optimistic about a limited release of the Focus EV.

http://www.ford.com/electric/focuselectric/2012/

I considered the Volt, but the reality is that, like American companies ALWAYS do, they tried to be all things to all people. Instead of making a practical mid range car, like the Leaf or the Focus EV, they tried to make an "extended range" EV, which ultimately falls competitively in line with standard hybrids and diesels in a smaller (interior space wise) package and for more money even with the tax credit.

We have a Ford Fusion and love it. If the focus EV were being sold in my area, I would seriously have considered it, and likely would have gone that route. But as gas prices climb toward $4/gallon, I'm happier than ever with the choice of going with an EV for my daily commute, even if it's a Nissan.