Chevy Volt Concept: A New Kind of Electric Car

Looks remarkably like the Aero X and did not SAAB have the plug in first!!

Please build this car!! It is absolutely awesome! I will be the first in line to buy one. This car should be out in less than two years for GM to really jump ahead of the competition

It looks good and is a good idea. I'd like to also have a really impressive high performance version of it too. Bring them to market!

The electric car will return to GM, and it will be a vehicle real people can actually live with. Thanks for putting the Chevrolet brand on this, the name the world, I'm sure, will come more and more to know as the leader in quality, economy, safety and value, as well as for performance and style. And thanks for turning the present backwards hybrid concept around to a more logical and economical orientation. This is much closer to a destination design for energy independence, not merely a rest stop along the way. What's good for the world will be good for General Motors. Sign me up!

This (the Chevrolet Volt) will call for a new documentary: Who Saved the Electric Car?

It's an interesting idea and a much better take on the hybrid, technologically. But the design needs a bit of work. I was underwhelmed with the interior, which still has commonplace, domestic bar-style dash. A car that modern deserves something more ergonomic, something that envelopes the driver more. A shorter wheel base might also look a bit better. And please, Detroit, lose the chrome. All of it. It looks cheesy. That grill would look better if it was just a bit more sophistacated and bit less "Grillz"

Make a five door version with a diesel engine and I'll buy one in a heartbeat.

What a cool looking car! You'll sell a million.

Nice concept but the car is extremely ugly.

Please please please start putting powertrains like this in vehicles that people can buy as soon as possible. If you can pull off the Camaro in a few years from concept to reality (so far . . .), you *should* be able to start delivering cars with plug-in hybrid powertrains by 2011. I mean, you still are the world's largest automaker, right? (Bob, stop reading now). When the CAFE standards get raised despite all your lobbyists efforts to the contrary, you'll already be ahead of the fuel economy pack with a fleet of plug-in hybrids!

As an economist, I'm actually hopeful that the bean counters at GM are finally starting to get it with this one. This could be a win-win-win for GM. If you will just build them at the economic sweet spots and sell (not just lease) them ASAP, you might even make some money.

Hey Notwerk, then don't buy one!! And "lose the chrome", the only chrome on the car is the grill. The other 99% of the population will more than offset those who will always find something to complain about with this vehicle.

I'm looking forward to the day it goes on sale. The only thing that I would change is that I want Blue instead of Silver.

Paul, "Make a five door version with a diesel engine and I'll buy one in a heartbeat."

Sorry it's only a four door with a rear liftgate and since it's not a hybrid why would you want a diesel (which costs more per gallon). I guess that the 100MPG & 640 mile range is just not good enough for some people.

GM, BUILD IT
(AND THEY WILL COME!)

Obviously if you could bring this car out immediately, you'd jump the market and could probably sell half a million the first year. Unfortunately, Toyota and possibly Honda are probably working on very similar capabilities, and the battery technology is still in development. I don't have to tell you you're in a moon race--I'm just hoping you can surprise us for a change and win!

That said, great job on the concept. I doubt the gunslit windshield is practical, but this is not the car people will ever buy so it doesn't matter.

Please keep the beancounters away from this car. For once in your careers, have the wherewithall to build a truly class LEADING car instead of "whatever we can get away with" cost and corner cutter. Load it with all the latest technologies, safety and creature comforts and make the designs truly workable, and not too "George Jetson-like". Tell your buyers that vehicle sales should be the goal, not lowest price wins. You MUST get rid of that mentality at GM. Whoever is behind the cheap is good and cheaper is best mentality should be shown the door. Continuing down this misguided path is NOT your way to profitability. You must put money into the product and look to be a market leader, not follower. You have the opportunity here - don't follow the normal development path where lowest cost is the driving force. Take a stand and let the design and engineering and product development teams specify the best class leading technologies. GM must be willing to buy the best if you ever expect to re-gain market share and stake your claim on a piece of the market. This is your second chance to do it right. Detroit certainly doesn't need another team to strike out.

This car looks awesome! It is about time for US companies step up to the plate. This one looks like a homerun. Get it into production within two years with keeping the price under 30K and this car will certainly be a top seller. I hope to be driving one soon!

From an automotive business point of view, the Chevy Volt probably makes GM one of the leaders in the "concept market" of hybrid passenger vehicles.

Like most people, I enjoy visiting car shows to look at the concept vehicles. However, I've always taken home a production passenger vehicle at the end of the show. If feasible (it does not share the traits of the NASA space shuttle), I suggest that GM should move this vehicle to the "production market"; so the general public can drive it.

I can't wait for you to get this one on the road so I am converting and S-10 to electric now. Should be ready to go by the end of the month. Get this into production and I will trade in my other ICE for and Volt. Let's make middle east oil irrelevant!

Very cool! It would be nicer if the car had a longer drive range with the batteries before the generator kicked in... such as the Tesla Roadster, which has a 250 miles a charge. Even if it were 100+ mile range, that would be great!

Diesel could be a fuel option.

And it looks pretty good... a lot better than a fugly Prius.

Great concept. This one needs a fast track approach.

Personally, I'd like a 2-door wagon like the Nomad, something I could work out of, or haul the kids if I had to. With a ladder rack on top, it would replace my pickup.

Thank you, Beth, for posting this, and all of you for starting to bring this car into being. Here's how The California Cars Initiative, promoting plug-in hybrids since 2002, responded to the news (see the entire statement at
16 Points about GM's Plug-In Hybrid):

"We commend GM for being the first out of the starting gate in the Great Plug-In Car Race of 2007. GM's announcements are the biggest victories yet for CalCars.org and other PHEV advocates. Now our campaign is in third gear. We'll work with the auto industry, government, fleet buyers and advocates to get to the day -- soon, not in a decade -- when customers can buy PHEVs as easily as any other car."

The California Cars Initiative is a Palo Alto-based nonprofit startup. We're a group of entrepreneurs, engineers, environmentalists and consumers, since 2002 promoting plug-in hybrids (PHEVs). CalCars.org is itself a hybrid, focusing both on public policy and technology development. CalCars was first to convert a hybrid to a 100+MPG plug-in hybrid in 2004.

Congratulations!

On the Saturn Aura and Chevy Silverado NA Car & Truck of the Year.

On you sales success in China and Asia.

On the phenomenal Chevy Volt.

You know being you #1 fan just got a little easier.

The concept is wonderful, but I have to ask: Is GM making this car to get into the good graces of the 'environmental' public? Knowing that if they make it so ugly that no one will buy it? Very conspiracy theory, I know, but I think we are all wondering how intrenched automakers are with the gas companies??? [But maybe they'll surprise us all and make a great hybrid car that gets 3 digits to the gallon, and it (or a version of it) will look like any other car on the road?!]

Da Fonz, "Why would you want a diesel" if it costs more per gallon?

Maybe because diesel engines are 25-40% more efficient than gasoline engines?

Or maybe because biodiesel (or even straight vegetable oil) has almost 30% more energy content than ethanol AND takes less energy to produce?

Or because if the playing field were level (as it might become if more diesel engines existed), diesel fuel would cost LESS than gasoline?

Or because diesel engines are far superior and longer-lasting than gasoline engines?

Hmm, other than those reasons, you're right -- I can't see why I would want a diesel engine in this or any other car!

Regardless...

GM, you're on the right track -- now just start making them, anticipate advances, and perfect the technology as the numbers increase. Please and thank you.

Wow. I was absolutely speechless, when I saw the Chevy Volt for the very first time on Sunday.

Of course we urgently need those car in Europe, either, since we are paying up to 7$ per Gallon.

I think there's no need for further discussions. I just took part in the Chevrolet Volt Survey. So far there voted about 99 percent of all people for the production of the Chevy Volt. The earlier, the better!

Sorry it's only a four door with a rear liftgate

From the picture it looked like it was only a coupe. While I'd prefer a hatchback, a liftgate is okay.

[S]ince it's not a hybrid why would you want a diesel (which costs more per gallon). I guess that the 100MPG & 640 mile range is just not good enough for some people.

Diesel is more efficient and biodiesel is more widely available than E85. A diesel generator would increase the range and mpg by 50%.

But I guess this is a moot point since the technology to make this a reality isn't going to be available till 2010 at the earliest.

This would be the only car that I would be interested in from GM even though most of my past cars have been GM. If they do build this car it would be trouble for Toyota. Toyota does not get this concept.

I gotta have this car! It is what I have been looking for! Hope you guys can really make it work! GM has got to get back in the game. MAKE US WANT TO BUY AMERICAN AGAIN! We invented the car, lets be the best again!

In addition to my previous comment:

If it's technologically possible and viable, as far as production costs are concerned: What about the integration of solar cells in the Chevy Volt's roof and hood, at least as an option? This might deliver significantly more electricity for recharging the batteries, especially in those countries/regions, where's more sunshine in the average. As I believe this could be potentially interesting to those nations in the Middle East, Southern Europe, Australia and, of course, many areas in the USA.

This is extraordinary. GM is showing some real leadership. I am not a car guy. I am much more concerned with energy security and the environment, so I have been unimpressed by GM's decision-making for a long time. But if GM does a good job with this technology, this car will have significant geopolitical impact...the kind that we can use more of. Do the right thing, GM.

GM -- please build it and I'll gladly dump my Prius.

I would be willing to make a down payment to get on the list of first ones to get this car. Even if the production date is a little open-ended. How about a refund if it does not go into production within 3-4 years? I'm absolutely serious about this and am sure there are many others that feel the same. If GM wants to see what kind of interest there will be in this vehicle - they should start up a pre-puchase program.

This concept is right on the money in my opinion. Sort of like reversing the current hybrid and making it a mostly electric car.
If you can actually deliver this technology to viable and sensible vehicles, it will do A LOT for GM's image in current markets. You need to gain back your East Coast/West Coast customers, who are hooked on VW's and Toyota Priuses. and by showing them you have the ability to produce such a car, then you won't be able to produce them fast enough.
My only qualm is that I would probably dampen the extremity of the design down a bit. I understand this is simple a concept car shell to showcase new technology, but when and if you produce a car like this, you need to make it pallatable to a wide consumer.

I am so tired of people bashing gm all the time.Excuse me,they have made a great car exceeding all your expectations as far as EPA is concern and you still have something bad to say.What a banch we have become.
Toyota,honda or volvo,benz or what so ever have not announced a car like the volt so lets give credit where its due.GO GO Go GM!!!!!

About time GM saw the light! Ugly car! You don't need a grille on a EV. The EV-1 was a far better looking car. Just reserect that as a 2 and 4 door, even a wagon. You would sell more than you could make!

I don't really care how ugly the car is. But that it be electric to spare the air and keep our money in USA. Not supporting people who hate us.

The Volt is a good start at serial hybrid production but the high performance configuration negates any reduction in potential energy conservation impact, after all a joule is a joule no matter where it came from and Force still equals Mass times Velocity.

How about a fast track program to get serial hybrid technology in to an enviromentally concious platform like the Aveo or Cobalt where their light weight would fully leverage the energy conservation advantages of serial hybrid technology?

BUILD THIS CAR! This is a car a lot of us have been waiting for. GM needs to get this car out in 3 years or less. Oh, and how about making this powertrain available on the 2009 Camaro as an option. If you could make it perform like a V6 and get 50-100 mpg city, you'd sell a bunch, and have a one-up on it's closest rival the Mustang.

I expect to see GM produce this about the same time UFO's land on the white house lawn. No use getting excited about something just presented at a auto show just to try and boost GM's popularity.

I have money ready to buy a practical PHEV, 40 miles electric range is more than acceptable.......An all electric version with longer range created by replacing the ICE with batteries would catch my eye too.

I knew G.M. wasn't sleeping. Great Car & I will buy one.

The Volt looks terrific, and a firm step towards a practical, electric-based vehicle. The overall approach is a vast improvement over the initial electric vehicles (good thing Al Gore isn’t running GM).

However the key is to get the package to first work in a Malibu-sized vehicle, one that weighs about 3300 lbs. If a vehicle this size & weight could get 100-120 mpg of gasoline --plus electricity-- and it can be brought to market by 2010 or 2011, then GM has hit the mother lode. Fuel cell technology can later applied with it and scale to all sized vehicles. End of oil dependence. Let the power companies scramble to provide more electricity. There are plenty of ways to create electricity, including hydro and wind. It would be ironic if the Government, which has such a disastrous record of managing & protecting our energy sources, should be bailed out by the very industry it hold in such complete contempt.

But we’ll see. The car still has to be delivered to the showroom. But deliver this type of styling, and the mileage, and the Prius will become a latter-day AMC Gremlin.

Well I hope to be second in line to buy one behind Jeff! These are some great comments - thanks bloggers. Notice how positive almost all of them are? I think there's a message there. I even have to agree with Da Fonz, for once!

Bob Larson is right about this being a race with Toyota and Honda. The same LA Times article yesterday which announced the Volt made reference to the rumor we have heard so often that Toyota is getting ready with a 90 mpg Prius. Please make it happen, sooner rather than later, Mr. Lutz and Co.

I also second the motion of Denny, thanks for making it a Chevy. We are the Chevy faithful. If a high tech, high mileage, GM car actually materializes out of all this, our family will be at the head of the line with Jeff to buy one, even if it's a Saturn. but a Chevy would be 100 times better.

Also, this is a much more appropriate size of car than a Vue for this effort. If we have learned one thing as road racers, it is that weight is the enemy. Part of the appeal of the Prius is that it is a step up in size from the "B" sized cars that are so hot right now, but the hybrid system allows superior mileage anyway. My wife is afraid to drive an Aveo in LA city traffic, but she would drive a Cobalt or ,God forbid, a Prius. Even so it would substantially smaller and lighter than a Vue, which is all to the good.

On the subject of weight, I think gtjeff will be pleased with the composite body panels. Absolutely, play to you strength and hard won experience. I have a cool book showing the original molds for the 1953 corvette body. 54 years of experience has to count for something. Can you use that in your marketing?

Beth,

The Volt looks great. Now, let's get those batteries developed and get this into production ASAP. If you can do the Camaro by Model Year 2009, this needs to be in dealers in Calendar Year 2009. Great work and good luck.

It's great to see a major automaker finally moving forward on what small companies have been proving possible for several years (see Energy CS, CalCars and HyMotion). But while the announcement is exciting, GM still isn't giving any solid timeline on WHEN we can see these cars on the road or HOW MANY cars are actually going to be produced - at best they say 3-4 years if the battery technology is available. There is a demand for plug-in hybrids NOW - there are hundreds of cities, counties, utility districts and fleets already placing "soft orders" for such vehicles. Such early-adopters of these vehicles would provide test markets for GM to refine the technology and build public confidence and interest in these cars.

I have to admit I'm a little concerned that they will use the announcement of these concept cars more to clean up their image than clean up their product line. There is a lot GM can do between now and when we may see these concept vehicles actually on the road.

We all know increasing fuel efficiency is the direction automakers need to head – so let’s get past the hype of a handful of concept vehicles and look at what they are doing with the rest of their fleet. Overall average fuel economy from the Big 6 is worse today that it was 10 years ago and GM is still heavily dependent on its gas guzzling truck lines. In addition to that they are still fighting tooth-and-nail against increasing fuel economy regulations, suing states that try to limit greenhouse gas emissions, and in December argued before the Supreme Court that carbon from tailpipe emissions was not even a pollutant. GM is still planning to expand their Hummer line to become 25% of their overall sales. Consumers still have limited options to find fuel-efficient cars that are affordable, well-built, and fun to drive. There are plenty of things automakers can do today to increase fuel economy – and I'm tired of being shown distracting concept cars that we won't see for 3-4 years if ever.

I've been working with the Freedom From Oil Campaign to make automakers honestly prioritize fuel economy and move beyond oil – check out what we do .

GM at it’s Best !!! Excellent concept, I am ready to make GM number one again, when can I buy it ? make that when can I buy two

I hope these go on sale soon. The genset takes care of the range problem with electric vehicles. Using a bigger battery pack to increase electric range would be great. Use nimh batteries in it.
Bill

You created the GM EV1 Series Hybrid prototype in 1999. While the specs are not as good as the 2010-2012 Chevy Volt, it is not radically different. There is no reason you could not have produced these already using NiMH batteries. Please minimize the delays, and don't make perfect the enemy of the good.

I agree with Eric Anderson, 1/8/07, 12:14 PM.

I too would make a down payment now to keep the faith and get on the "pre-purchase" list.

Where do I send the check?

Great looking car! I drive a 2004 Prius. I have $30K in CDs in the bank that will come due in the fall of 2009 which I will use to buy my next car. I am not wedded to Toyota, I am wedded to getting a plug-in hybrid. So if the Volt is the only plug-in hybrid available then (i.e. 2010 model year) I WILL buy it. Thank you for pursuing this technology, this is where we need to go! Thanks, -Bill

GM has talked the talk. Let's see if you folks can walk the walk.

The serial hybrid (Volt) is a game-changer. Prius and co. will need to do serious catchup if you can pull it off. My money and my cheers to whichever company can do the 100mpg production car first.

This is very exciting. I just bought a compact (Scion XA) car, but only because I can't get a Plug Hybrid. When they are available, sign me up. I'd rather by electricity and batteries from the U.S. than oil from OPEC. I very much like the "series-hybrid" approach. Seems much less complex...

I currently drive an electric-only Toyota RAV4 EV, so I know electric cars are practical vehicles for most of our every day driving. A plug-in hybrid vehicle, like the Volt, would make it practical for practically all of our driving. The technology is there to make the car today. So rush it into production right away and see how people rush back to GM. Consider making an expandable battery pack an option, so people can buy extended electric-only range if they wish. It is also feasible to have the extended range be an option for the driver, so that the extra batteries can be added as needed for longer trips. As someone who has never purchased a GM vehicle, if you build and sell a production plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, it could be the first GM vehicle I will ever buy. Make it a five-seater, so that it can be everyone's family car. And make a minivan version for all the "soccer moms" and dads among us.

E-Flex is a great concept and it’s what everyone has been asking GM to do and that’s what makes this so disappointing.

I was hoping for a production vehicle, something that would be on sales at dealers 6 months form now not another “maybe by 2010 car if there are better batteries”. Come on the EV1 was a 2 seat car and it could go 140 miles are you seriously telling us that in 2007 with the improvements that have been made in batteries that GM’s engineers can’t build a 4 seat car with a 40 mile range?

If the batteries really are still to heavy for a car build an E-Flex Chevy Colorado and/or GMC Canyon. Just build something that people can actually buy.

Every time GM builds one of these concept cars with no solid production plans you’re critics get stronger.

too heavey, not aerodynamic and not as usable space inside as the Prius. Also only a concept. Wheres the 50+ mpg cars that lead up to this great idea.
I'm disappointed, again.

I am very supportive of this design and would absolutely love to buy one. The sooner we see this, the better. If there's a mailing list to get updates on this, please sign me up.

This is the car I have been waiting for. I just wish this was a product announcement with a delivery dates.

As for as a battery that is available now, why not use the nano-Titanate NanoSafe battery by Altair Nano. It has a battery life of 15,000 cycles and a power density of 4 KW/kg. The cycle life looks a lot better than the A123system battery. Give me one that's going to last.

I want to become a GM family again. I would be glad to dump my Lexus for a Volt that is reliable and will last.

Thanks, GM. You are on the right track.

Hello,

In several previous posts, I have mentioned that perceptions take a long time to form and often longer to change. Well, the times they are a-changing.

Here is a quote from CNN.COM regarding the Volt and in reference to Toyota:

"Hard to imagine (and even harder to type) but based on {what} we have seen thus far, GM has an upper-hand in the Hybrid stakes. ".

Here is the link:

http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2007/autos/0701/gallery.detroit4/index.html

Just thought I would share this.

Thanks,
Chris Hayne

AWESOME CAR ! EVERYHOME HOME WITH SOLAR PANELS ON THEIR ROOFS ARE GOING TO BUY THIS CAR. NO POWER BILLS, SAY GOODBYE TO GAS STATIONS AND BEST OF ALL HELP SOLVE THE GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE CRISIS!

THANK YOU... PLEASE SELL THEM SOON !

GM,
Well, I think you've come as close to my perfect vehicle as anyone could who didn't actually read my mind! Electric propulsion, and a flex-fuel generator to keep the batteries charged! Would you consider offering an option of maybe an amorphous PV array that is permanently connected to the battery charger to allow the sun to assist in charging while driving and more importantly when the vehicle is just sitting in the parking lot? That would be one simply incredible option!

Great! Build it - But how about lots of mass production hybrids that get better than 50 mpg. Right now I drive a fuel efficient Chevy Prism. I know it's a Toyota Corolla with a Chevy label but I wanted to buy car made in the U.S. and the Prism was made in California. I will be in the market for a new vehicle within the next year. I'm only looking at vehicles that top 40 mpg which leaves out the Saturn VUE. Right now the only companies that have the vehicles I want are Toyota and Honda. I know GM can catch up. Please do it before next year when I buy my next car!

Ms. Lowery: The Volt looks great

terryb Jan 7 10:13 PM: I was thinking the same thing - the Volt would be perfect powertrain to go with the Nomad concept version of a few years ago.

Noel Park: The Volt is about the size of the Astra 5-door which should be perfect for your wife. And if it had the 53-54 Vette styling and utility of the Nomad Concept with optional extended cab style rear doors it would sell.

Hopefully GM will create a line of "Volt" models -
from 2 door to 5 door with at least one hatchback.

Paul: Looks like GM is going to build your car.
I am guessing the production version will be "toned down" a bit and have at least 5 passenger capacity and plenty of utility.
Hopefully, a diesel will be an option as Beth hinted but as usual the real culprit to no diesel is the overly strict emission standards.

Gereon Langlitz: Great idea with the solar panels, if I am not mistaken Mazda used one to power a interior ventilation fan on a vehicle a few years back - so it should work on the Volt.

As far as the critics, where is Toyota's plug-in? They brought overweight, inefficient pickup to the show. One that gets 4 MPG LESS than the Silverado/Sierra even with a 5-speed and much less power.

Don't see any concepts from anyone else either.

Please bear in mind that 2010-2012 is only 3-5 years away and is within the typical auto industry development time for a entirely new product.

GM does need to really bring the E-Flex platform into production. May I suggest building the car with the best batteries available in a real world product development program like the GM Fuel Cell Vehicle.

Looking around the web, especially the "green" sites, the Volt is getting a very positive reception with most reservations centered on whether GM will actually build it.

Do me a favor, one of my diehard Toyota co-workers actually said that he would buy a Volt for his wife. Build it so I can see if he is being sincere.

This looks very promising. If GM executes this concept (and they should be able to do that in about 2 years) then they can become great again.
But I am skeptical. It may be another smoke and mirror show to hide the killing of the previous EV for some positive PR, but I will laugh in their faces when the ZEV mandate that was recently approved in California and 10 other states does kick in in 2009 and Toyota or Honda has their line of EVs ready to roll, while GM is still waiting for batteries. That part of the story is bullcrap, as there are hundreds if not thousands of EVs on the road today with batteries that go 125 miles per charge. Take 1/4 or so of those batteries if weight and cost is an issue - 30 miles range is plenty if you have the engine onboard to recharge them while you go. No waiting for a recharge.
Sweet part is that IF you have 6 hours (like drive to work, plug in, drive home, plug in) you never have to go to the gas station again!
Until it becomes clear if GM is serious about this concept, I will continue to drive my S-10 electric truck to work every day and for long distance use my 'gas guzzling' Prius.

I didn't know this blog existed before setting out to find a way to communicate my reaction to the Volt announcement with top GM executives. I can make due with this forum.

Gentlemen: In my 49 years of life I've never been a GM customer. The company simply never made any products which spoke to me. Currently I'm a Toyota driver, but I've owned many vehicles from VW and BMW, to Volvo, Alfa Romeo, Honda, Isuzu and Range Rover (my SUV phase).

The Volt completely changes the game however. If it is truly representative of GM's new direction it will make a loyal lifetime customer out of me. I'll also teach my young children what's great about the thinking behind this idea when they're old enough to appreciate it. That's a promise (two actually).

I hope you'll follow through and be in production soon.

Best regards

This platform reminds me of the world's first hybrid.

Porsche's hand built vehicle back before 1900 also was a series hybrid. It was his 2nd design and was 83% efficient. The Prius that came along 100 years later doubled the other billion cars roaming earth to 37%...What about the Volt?

All the diesel-electric hybrid trains that built America are series hybrids. So are the nuclear-electric series hybrid submarines. Even most of your gas-electric driers are hybrids.

The Volt is a hybrid, not an electric car, yet...Why did it take so long to get back to Porsche's 106+ year old design and make a leap forward in efficiency?

The Volt is probably more efficient than the Prius and could be the most efficient car on Earth, if released to showrooms...

A prosperous year and much luck getting it through safety and smog testing GM.

I applaud your vision!

"we’ve added a range extender using a system we call E-Flex. Basically, it works by using the onboard engine to generate additional energy for the battery."

Excuse me pls, Ms. Lowery, but that's not the description of a technologically advanced electric car, I think the public already knows the concept under the name 'hybrid' since some years...

"When the lithium-ion battery is fully charged, the Volt can deliver 40 city miles of pure electric vehicle range."

Hmm. I'm underwhelmed. Pls compare your specs with those of another, really electric, car that's already in production:

"The Tesla's giant lithium-ion battery pack gives it the power to hit 60 in four seconds, to run 250 miles without a recharge, and to charge rapidly at its home charging base (a one-hour charge will take you 80 miles; it takes a 3.5-hour charge to go 250 miles)."
http://www.slate.com/id/2154425/

The Volt generally sounds like a good idea, but why can't GM cope with the product of an obscure little company that sells only a few hundred cars a year? Try harder. Right now you're only second winner behind Tesla Motors, if at all.

Part of GM's discussion around batteries claims that they are not ready for prime time. The limited production GM EV1 had a 150 mile range with NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries and 1998 technology. Similarly, the Toyota RAV4 EV (also 1998 technology) has a 120 mile range. (GM EV1 is past tense, because they were all removed from service and crushed; Toyota RAV4 EV is current tense, because there are still hundreds on the road, including hundreds owned by individuals such as this commenter.) In mass production, those NiMH Ovonics batteries can be placed inexpensively in a Volt TODAY.

Alternatively, GM can license the technology for combining a bunch of Lithium Ion cells into a battery pack from AC Propulsion. AC Propulsion is using that technology today to convert Scion xB cars into all-electric eBoxes.

Again, in mass production, the Lithium Ion batteries can be built inexpensively.

Tesla Motors has created similar technology with Lithium Ion cells to build a car that can go 250 miles on a single charge. With GM's manufacturing prowess and volume, battery packs one-quarter the capacity could be quickly adapted and inexpensively built to power the Volt TODAY.

Bottom Line: there is no need to wait for better batteries. Make a car with the acceptable batteries available now, and then upgrade to better batteries as they become available.

Right now, for this car, GM stands for "Good Marketing." Please change that quickly into "General Manufacturing."

While a 40 mile range will probably be acceptable to many folks, there are also many of us that have a longer daily commute. Could you PLEASE make available an option to increase the mileage available under EV only mode, perhaps in 20 mile increments. I know that battery cost can be rather high, but if it's an option, then we'll be the one's deciding how much we're willing to pay for the increased range.

Good start, although my personal preference would be for a vehicle that's a little more practical, such as a CUV.

I and my family have decided to not purchase a new vehicle until we can purchase a plug in or more efficient vehicle. The volt or anything built on the Volt concept would get us into the new car market instead of purchasing used vehicles. I WOULD buy the best vehicle for my needs with this technology.

Build it.

Very cool. When will it be built?

My second post on this, but I have a question for GM: If the E-flex concept is flexible on the "source of electricity" end, couldn't you also make the battery pack modular in a way that it could keep up with emerging battery technology? I say this not only to make the car more obsolete-proof, but thinking that you could target a Volt to appear sooner (like 2010) which uses proven battery technology like from EV1, and maybe have a 20 mile electric-only range.

If you could produce the EV1 so many years ago, I would think you could do a Volt like this now, at least for warmer climates. Then when your joint ventures produce superior battery modules, consumers would have the option of making the swap. This would also allow you to announce a targeted on-sale date, which would give you a lot more "greenie" points than a "just you wait and see, someday!"

As for me, I currently commute less than 10 miles a day, but if I drive our GMC XUV I still use about a gallon of gas each day, because of the short trips in local driving. So I could definitely stay all-electric most of the time with existing technology. And even for those who drive longer distances, they would still end up using a lot less fuel than they do now, based on your Volt specs, even compared to cars like the current Prius.

You just know a plug-in Prius is just around the corner, and Toyota will be hailed once again as the Savior of the World by most of the media. GM needs to be there at the same time with something to deflate Toyota. You did it with the full-sized trucks, now you need that same urgency with your E-flex car. I'm really hoping you're just being sly about the Volt and you'll surprise the marketplace with a car that beats Prius at its own game, by 2009.

>

With all due respect, Beth, many of us remain unconvinced that GM "gets it" when it comes to being truly competitive and committed to environmentally friendly vehicles. Proof? One has only to read GM VP Bob Lutz's recent blog of just two weeks ago in which he goes back to basically begging our government to help save GM from the big bad Japanese, who apparently have eyes on the full-sized truck market now, the last bastion of Detroit supremacy in the automotive market--and the source of most of its profits--to see that the game hasn't changed.

It will take far more than a concept car and a bunch of verbal promises IMO to undo the damage GM has done to date through its constant (and ongoing) fight against improved fuel efficiency and clean air standards that most Americans consider crucial today in cleaning up our environment and getting us out from under OPEC's grip.

Sorry, Beth, but GM can't have it both ways. Either it truly commits the company to these goals consistently across the board and in a steadfast manner, are it is once again blowing smoke up our proverbial keesters.

Larry Hayes
Manager
Google Groups Tidalforce Owners Forum

Beth,
The Chevrolet Volt is a pleasant design and a very welcome suprise concept. Great work designers! I would like the wish GM the best of luck with the new lithium-ion battery development contracts. I would also like to wish Denise Gray all the best in her role of director of hybrid energy storage systems and hope her collaborative research with the (USABC) yeilds the results to put the Chevrolet Volt on the FAST track to production.
GM has heard the call loud and clear, and for that I thank all the hard working men and women making the hybrid future happen today.
Comsumers want a true real world hybrid with the features shown on the Volt.
Now follow through and sweat the details to produce a world class vehicle.
Lead the way GM!

Hey Matt Meaddows... No American invented the car!

It was invented by Carl Benz (a three wheeler) and a bit later also by Gottlieb Daimler (a coach-type car). The two later on found Daimler-Benz, known today as DaimlerChrysler.

PS: Diesel is cheaper or equal to gas in all European countries (for tax reasons).

What a crew of bloggers! I love it! Come on Bob, make it happen!

Did anyone see "Hybrid autos save money in long run, study finds", Los Angeles Times, January 8, 2007? This story got a lot of play on the radio news in LA yesterday, so I assume it must have gotten some national coverage.

A good summary might be the following paragraph:

"But a new study by Intellichoice.com, which specializes in automotive cost-of-ownership data, says that hybrid buyers are still the winners when you factor in costs of financing, fuel, insurance, state taxes and license fees, repairs, maintenance and depreciation."

They include a table of the "lifecycle" costs of avaiable hybrids compared to similar conventional cars and trucks. Even the Silverado/Sierra hybrids come out less expensive. Amazing! Who knew?

GM Executives:

You should consider expanding the product offerings on this line of technology. You might be surprised what premium early adopters are willing to pony up, giving you essentially beta testers who pay you!

The broad "glass" roof of the Volt is perfect for integrating cheap thin film solar from nanosolar.com (up and running soon). Consider parterning with them to at least produce concept vehicles for the next generation.

Also, consider making some battery only models. Fine tune the A/C induction motor and electronics. Open a branch R&D facility in Silicon Valley. Make a Corvette that either beats the Tesla or is cheaper.

So much of GM's recent decisions can be explained by you needing cash and needing it now (therefore taking government contracts to focus on hydrogen, or selling off the EV battery patents to Texaco-Chevron). The type of things I mentioned cost money, but will have profound effects on your employee morale, creativity and productivity, and will lay a foundation to reap benefits for the future. It's all about attitude.

Just makes my heart go pitter-patter and brings a tear of joy! GM and America can still lead!!! This is certainly a global game changer. I feel like it’s my first prom all over again. Yes, I have a long memory!! Anyway… Questions:
How much will it cost? Can I purchase, or will they only "lease" it to me? Can I take delivery in 2008? Can I have the option regarding all electric range (40-60-90-120 miles) at extra cost when I purchase. Can I use it as an auxiliary power source for my home in case of emergency and for power tools, toys etc. with 120/240vac plugs under hood, in the trunk and maybe under the front seat? The skateboard evolves! We can again be proud to be American!!

Dear Beth and GM.
I decided some time ago that the next vehicle I purchase would have to have the ability to plug in to the electrical outlet that is in my garage where my electric assist bicycles now reside. I'm taking a stand on this and am telling everyone I know why: to save our planet and to get out from under the control of other countries who supply us with the fuel we desperately need in this country to exist as a free country who must have the ability to travel to do anything. We can drastically cut down on this dependency through the plug in hybrid car. I hope GM follows through with the plug in quickly so that I can be one of their customers again.

can you put an S-10 body on the Volt frame? i love my mini pickup, extended cab version. I almost did an EV conversion of my S-10 before this announcement.
I am willing to put a deposit or "soft order" in on one at my local dealer of $500.
I also bought a bunch of GM stock.
The hopes and livelihoods of thousands of folks ride on the success of this.

Love this concept! Quick thought...not an engineer but couldn't you use some kind of wind-power to help keep batteries charged? Little fans in the grille that act like wind turbines..spin while you drive creating electricity...that kind of thing?

The Chevrolet Volt has given me a reason to start using my GM Visa card once again.

PLEASE, built this vehicle, I will buy it CASH, no financing needed. This is the vehicle I have been waiting for.

I had completely gave up on American vehicles, and was waiting for the imports to release the first modern day EV.
I was content to let GM and the rest of the American auto industry rust away to nothing as all they ever sell is just a redesigned/rebadged gas guzzler.

Finally, I can tell myself to buy an American car again only if you sell this vehicle.

I will be paitently waiting with cash in hand for a vehicle like this to be sold.

I'm waiting.........

-Joe O'Brien Jr.

Please check out the discussion generated by Volt on Green Car Congress.

I will not buy another vehicle until I can get a fuel efficient flex fuel plug-in hybrid. The Volt sounds like the one but I will buy the first such vehicle that becomes available regardless of brand because of the urgency in dealing with global warming and oil dependency.

I think GM should get this car on the road as soon as possible. The EVI was the "stereotypical EV car" it wasnt sleek and stylish like the volt. The E-Flux is very creative and smart. I would get it in black! People will buy and you'll make $ and also help contribute to a better world. GET THIS CAR ON THE ROAD!

-Andrew-Nashville, TN.

if everyone buys this car the pollution moves from the car to the power plant that generates the electricity to charge the batteries. since the "greens" want cars like this BUT they do not want non polluting nuclear powered electric generating plants what do we gain?

Bob Larson would like a Volt pick-up truck, and so would I. Design it along the lines of the Chevy SSR, and GM will have a winner there, too. It sould be a lot more of a winner than the original SSR...a gas guzzler if there ever was one...

The VOLTS drivetrain rocks!!!! I'm in complete DISBELIEF seeing this concept coming from GM , full aware of GM's dark past with the Ev's???
I sincerely hope and PRAY that GM and all americans will start Winning soon with the immediate production of the volts or volts drivetrain with many different style vehicles . GM Please Pledge all your time and recources in MASS PRODUCING a Plug in hybrid , even if it's a Geo Metro plug in hybrid ....I'll buy IT!!!
Like many other bloggers upgradeable batteries later is fine, even options for different qaulity battery packs and offering base models that can be purchased by most americans , Lets just get this in the publics driveways soon. Before I'm driven to buy toyota and Honda as I understand there are a few companies now that are converting The PRIUS into Plug in ....

Re: Battery availability

The only issue with batteries for the Volt is cost. The Li-Ions exist (A123, Altairnano, etc), but they're expensive today.

So, GM, instead of pressuring Congress to lower CAFE standards, why don't you get them to enact a $6000 tax rebate for plug-in hybrids (ones with an all-electric range of over 30 miles). That'd mitigate the battery cost and you could get this thing on the road sooner.

Everyone knows that Toyota's planning a Li-Ion hybrid for 2009. You've got a great chance to take the lead here, but waiting until 2012 is going to make you an also-ran at best.

The Volt concept raises a lot of questions.
For instance: if I drive from San Francisco to LA (a distance of 400 miles) at 80 miles per hour and the battery runs low after 40 miles, does the little gas engine produce enough juice to keep me going at 80 MPH?

I've never bought an American cars because they're mostly garbage compared to Japanese models (despite the spin, this is absolutely true). I've also made the decision to put off my next car purchase until I can buy electric. Build the Volt and I will absolutely buy it. I would have bought a used EV1, but you crushed them all. So silly.

Please build the Volt and lets stop burning dead dinosaurs to get around. The future is electric - wind farms, solar power - it's just a matter of time.

And please forget that ridiculous idea of fuel cells - I'm sure your petroleum buddies will figure out some other way to make money, but don't encourage them will this ludicrous technology. Just build an electric car and let's get on it with it already!

You've made some unbelievable mistakes over the last 10 years trying to placate the oil industry. They'll survive - let it go. Start building electric cars and you'll take a big step forward on being forgiven.

I have never owned a GM vehicle but if you produce this car that could very well change. I think this is a very pragmatic solution to reducing our dependence on oil and reducing our CO2 emissions. Plus, just imagine, if everyone drove this kind of car, the air and noise pollution in our cities would be considerably less. Please just produce this car in a reasonable time frame and make it reliable. I don't mind paying a little extra if it means a better quality product will be the end result. However, I will warn you that you have a race on your hands. I will buy the first plug-in car (with electric range of 30 miles or more) from a major manufacturer that comes to market.

Awesome baby! I'd buy one. I hope you find a way to commercialize this even if it is in a run of 5000 vehicles. If GM can't do so profitably in house, outsource the commercialization. Do what IBM did with the first PC nearly thirty years ago with a small skunkworks project. GM's been busy. Need I say you are stealing the Detroit Auto Show. I'll be there this weekend and can't wait to see the GM displays.

build this car asap
then create an after market business in product updates.
add a CD reader to each car so that when updated components are purchased a CD can included to reflash/reprogram the cars computer. this way the car can be personalized for each drivers needs. then send me mucho dinero for this great idea.

This is such a brilliant concept by GM and I am thankful they have the guts to show it. The styling is not that great and I think for such a ground breaking car they should make it a more iconic small car to match the Beetle and Prius 2. The body does not fit such a unique concept.
Still this sets the stage for the future of the car. Start perfecting the electric drive system and controls. Introduce electric steering and remote electric breaking. The car will become almost solid state with no fluids and hydraulics. Only the little gasoline generator heart will remain until the battery tech improves. Then the space for the engine can be replaced with that 500 mile charge battery. All other components are the same. A beautiful evolution!

I wonder if they will develop this with BMW and Mercedes like the hybrid project?

The Volt definitely captures the excitement of the real 66 Olds Torondao ("My Dad's Oldsmobile") and the Malibu SS (the first new car I bought).

Dad is up there in special spot of Heaven for 70 year 100% loyal GM customers saying "That's a REAL CAR!"

The Volt concept makes me wonder about a lot of things.
For instance: if the Volt is a "no compromise" vehicle, the little 1L engine must be good enough to keep you going under extreme conditions: battery empty, driving 80 MPH on a freeway (or 70 MPH up a freeway incline) with airconditioning on.
In fact, if this is true, then even without the large battery this car should be very appealing. If you leave off the large, expensive battery and only put a small battery, you would still have a very appealing vehicle, if it gets 50 MPG this way, right?
If a small 1L engine is good enough, then why do conventional cars have such big engines?
Along this line of thinking: why do we need to wait for the arrival of large Lithium batteries, if today you could already make a Volt with a small NiMH battery, with 1L engine, that gets 50 MPG? You could just leave the large battery and plug-in feature for the next version. And you would have an immediate competitor for the Toyota Prius.
What do you think?

Why not make a more rational battery that doesn't cut north-south the interior of the car and takes away any possibility to seat people on the middle of the car (hey, think about 5, 6 passenger seating to maximize the number of people carried by a PHEV). Instead, make it a flat one under the floor that passengers step. By making this, you'd also lower the center of gravity and make it more spacious, creating a 100% flat floor all around (allowing the center passengers to stay with their legs closer). And also, it'd be great if we can have solar panels to keep the batt full without using the combustion engine the more we can. Hey, it'd be great to leave our hypothetic Volts under the sun and, instead of dealing with a hotter-than-hell ride, meet one very fresh (because the solar panels, with the car stopped, would also feed the ventilation to cool it while parked, and also filling the batt up to go another 40 miles or more without gasoline.

Does having an engine that runs at a constant RPM mean than emission regulations can be met cheaper/easier????

If so, get this type of platform (diesel-electric) rolling for bigger vehicles with one of the great ECOTEC diesels from Europe...

May I suggest a vehicle name for the Saturn brand..."ION". It appears the current vehicle with this name is scheduled to be discontinued. Also, the new "ION" could be available with a "LI" package (ION-LI).

Timbo, 1/9, 11:07 PM:

Right!

If the Feds can subsidize the Prius to the tune of $3500+ per car for the first 65,000 units, they can d*** well do this.

Thrilled with GM's Volt announcement. However, GM has already proven that a Gen 1 Volt could be produced very quickly with NiMH batteries. Early adopters would flock to an early release, until Lithium pack is ready for mass commercialization. We can't afford to wait for "perfect," which never arrives, anyway.
plugsandcars.blogspot.com

Plug in electrics sound great -- if you live in a house with your own garage.

But what if you live in an apartment with a big open parking lot?

How do you recharge them on a trip when you're staying at a motel or hotel? How much will those motels charge to let you recharge your car?

It seems part of the needed infrastructure will be for places such as apartment buildings and motels to provide facilities for recharging.

Diesel-electric hybrid

In some respects the Volt will be similar to diesel-electric locomotives that use diesel engines to turn generators that in turn supply electricity for traction motors at the wheels.

When the batteries are depleted, will the Volt
operate like a true series hybrid, with the engine (gasoline or diesel) turning a generator to supply electricty to the drive wheels?

If that's the case, why not use a small, efficient diesel instead of a gasoline engine? A diesel engine that does nothing more than turn the generator could operate extremely efficiently in a narrow RPM range.

There are already plenty of small, clean diesel engines in Europe. I hope your plans to wait for development of an efficient and cost effective Lithium-ion battery pack also include plans to develop a small, clean, efficient diesel to go with it.

Beth said,

...we've added a range extender we call E-flex. It works by using the onbaord engine to provide additional energy.

Actually, there is nothing innovative about that. That is how diesel-electric train locomotives have operated for decades.

A looming lithium shortage?

If the wave of the future in personal transportation involves lithium-ion batteries, will there be a day when we become just as dependent on lithium as on fossil fuels? Has anyone investigated whether there will be enough lithium to do this?

And speaking of lithium: Wasn't Capt Kirk's starship the Enterprise powered by dilithium crystals?

i like the design, the wheels are pushed all the way to the corners. this car might not be a beast in a straight line but there is no way it wont handel well with that low wide stance.

the powertrain is great, it eliminates most of the complexity, weight and cost of a hybrid while providing most of the benefits. by using fuel to extend range you avoid most of the problems with pure electric cars. you can fill it up anywhere, instead of sit and wait while it charges.

this might be the first look at the car of the future. a true electric car that makes sense in the real world at a price that makes sense for the consumer.

Ever since my two day rental of the EV1 while on vacation in LA I've been waiting for a car like this!!!!!
BUILD IT!!! NOW!!!
The electic drive is the only way to go. The hybrids out today are over complicated inpractical, unreliable and extremely expensive to own.
The electric driveline is extremely reliable and in the long run much less expensive to own.. and most of all.. they don't need gasoline.
All we have to do is give GM a level playing field.. stop giving unfair advantages to it's foreign competitors and we will see the best cars ever built.
GOOD JOB GM...
GOOD JOB GM ENGINEERS!!

Congratulations on creating the most buzzed-about concept vehicle at this auto show. I hope it gets built without too many compromises. As far as I can tell, the biggest things holding back production of this vehicle are the cost of the battery pack and its potential impact on safety. If those concerns can't be completely met by the time model year 2010 rolls around, I hope you'll consider releasing the vehicle with a downsized battery pack (hopefully still with the option of a full pack for those who can afford it) until the remaining issues are worked out.

As your company pointed out with previous concept vehicles like the Hy-wire, electric drivetrains allow designers a great deal of flexibility in what they create. I'm disappointed that it took General Motors until now to realize that this was possible with series hybrid designs and not just hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, but better late than never!

Making it a plug-in vehicle is a nice touch, and I think many of your engineers have already realized that electrical distribution is more efficient overall than hydrogen is ever likely to be. The Chevy Volt is an elegant 80/20 solution to the problem of transportation. Get 80% of the people to their destinations on electricity alone 80% of the time, and use other sources the other 20% of the time.

Barry above just mentioned the "skunkworks" IBM PC project, and I'm sure the Volt will be regarded in many ways like the PC was as a disruptive technology that helped legitimize a whole new way of doing business. Whether or not GM reaches the market first, the Volt concept has enlightened many to the fact that plug-in hybrids are a great next step in restoring the energy balance of the human race. Thanks, and good luck!

(Oh, and I grew up riding and driving in Chevys. I've got myself a VW Jetta TDI at the moment, but it'd be nice to have a bowtie in my parking space again in five more years.)

I know a lot of people here are saying, "build the Volt and I will buy one." Sometimes consumers say something and then the product comes out and no one buys it. BUT I THINK IT'S DIFFERENT IN THIS CASE!!!!!

The Environmentalist have been asking for Plug-in cars and Electric cars for years now. They go out of their way to get their cars converted to run on batteries. THEY WANT THIS CAR.

And then there are others, who want to become less reliant on middle-east oil. They say, give me something that uses less fuel and doesn't compromise.

Then there are others, who want the latest technology (ie. Prius, I-pod, I-phone, blackberry, bluetooth, NavSystems). They would all want to buy this car to show off!

There's yet another group. Those that just want a better mousetrap. Get them from Point-A to Point-B without spending a lot of money. They'd be happy with a 40mpg car out of GM, much less one that might never use a gallon of gas.

Then there is the last group. Those that want to give GM another try. GM fans. They would flock to this car, because they could show all their Toyota and Honda friends how progressive GM actually is.

I've talked to 20-30 people about this car, and all of them said if it were reliable and styled right, they'd buy one, if not for the whole family, at least as a second car.

YOU WOULD OWN THE MARKET. Everyone could live with this car, and most would want to! Could you imagine!?!?!?!?!!?!!?!?!?!

Build 4 to 5 vehicles off this platform . . . a midsizer, a high roof car looking crossover, a 2-door and an SUV-looking crossover and you will not be able to make enough of them, guaranteed. At least get one out! Think of the eventual part sharing and economies of scale, and consider if these were sold in North America, China, Europe, South America and get this . . . . Japan! You could sell 5 million off this one platform. And if all the talk is true, you could always swap in the Fuel Cell in the future.

But DON'T WAIT! The cat is now out of the bag, and if Toyota or Honda or Hyundai or Ford or DCX or Nissan or anyone else thinks this is a good idea, how long do you think it will be before they come out with one and OWN THE MARKET? You may miss your opportunity and you may never recover. I only pray that I'm not looking at a Toyota version of this technology on the road 3 years from now, thinking, "What were all those positive comments about GM about on the internet back in 2007?"

Again, the cat's out of the bag. Put the current battery technology out there and start building. Gen-2 can get the latest batteries, and Gen-3 can get even later battery technology. Figure out how to upgrade people's battery packs or convert them to Fuel Cells as new technology emerges. Make it easy for people to settle on this one now and not worry that you won't get them something better for relatively little cost add or inconvenience.

I'd buy one today if it were available and only got a 20 mile range. My roundtrip to work is only 35 miles. If I knew that in 3 years, I could upgrade my battery pack for say, $2000-$3000, I wouldn't think I'd even have to be concerned about current technology battery life. People upgrade their computers every 3-4 years too.

THIS COULD CHANGE EVERYTHING, AND I'VE NEVER BEEN SO IMPRESSED WITH GM. BUT THE CAT IS OUT OF THE BAG. THE CLOCK IS TICKING. Good luck, GM! I'm pulling for you.

So Awesome. Please make it happen and make it affordable for all of us. We have seen so many concepts and so many that we can never have. Please do it fast and let the oil producing countries choke on their crude.

Many company is researching and developing this kind car. GM should put this car to market asap!

A strong move into GM's (and the industry's) future that must be accomplished in time for the 2012 model year. 2011 would be better.

Get this car on the road ASAP.
Use this type of powertrain for all future GM vehicles.

And speaking of lithium: Wasn't Capt Kirk's starship the Enterprise powered by dilithium crystals? - Nigel Gamecock

Yes, but they always seemed to have trouble with them at the most inopportune times...

If anyone is still reading this far down the page...

The technical challenges are not huge here, but still, we should not trivialize the technology. Let GM make this perform as well as its legendary lines of automatic transmissions for smoothness and the responsiveness the small block is famous for.

But, while I understand the idea of a concept is to attract attention and the car is beautiful (I own a DB7, so I know beauty), this is not a car for the masses. This car needs to be for the masses to make an impact. Put this drivetrain into the next Malibu, Impala, Colorado and Sivarado.

The Concept shows strong DNA to the Camaro, but a LOT of people that aren't in the Navy or are not 16-year old boys, don't find the Camaro attractive. The Camary is perennially one of the ugliest cars on the planet, yet they can't keep them on the lots. Also, I highly applaud keeping the car's interior that of an actual car, unlike the popular hybrids today.

I hope, even if you sell them at break-even in the first year or two until battery prices fall, you still build it to advance the technology. There will be new and surprising sources of electricity (soon) for those OEMs that have found a way to properly harness the electron.

Right direction, Can GM pull it off as good as Toyota? My ext 2 cars will be max mileage and minimum body.

I love the idea that GM is taking a lead in alternative fuel studies for the future, but I worry this will become another EV1: a project GM puts effort into, and then loses interest. I already see that with the Sequel. I thought hydrogen power was where the General was focusing its effort.

We are having our home converted to
PV solar electric next month. The first
company to bring a Plug In Hybrid car to the public will get our business.

At last some hope. I am a former EV1 driver who had assumed that our family's next vehicle would have to be a Toyota. I just hope that this is not just hype. I seem to remember seeing a vehicle called the Triax at some of the auto shows in 1999 that was also a PHEV. Never again saw the light of day. I am waiting but not much longer on GM to produce a vehicle like this. Your call......

I want this car. Please build it as soon as possible. I am anxious to park this wonderful American car amongst the Prius throng at my yoga class!

The next car I buy will be a PHEV. I hope it's yours!

Ah, lithium-ion batteries.

Hope GM has checked with Apple, Dell, Hewlett-Packard, and Sony and gotten their opinion on them. All had problems with overheating and exploding lithium-ion batteries in their computers during 2006. (Would really ruin your day to being going down I-5 at 70 mph when the lithium-ion battery pack decides to go critical mass.)

Will there be enough lithium?

The really big question though is will there be enough lithium to support a world-class company using great numbers of large, heavy-duty lithium-ion batteries for propulsion? (I’m sure GM hopes the numbers will be in the hundreds of thousands or even millions. And GM isn’t the only auto company with an eye on using lithium-ion batteries. Renault has also announced their intent to develop hybrids using lithium-ion batteries, and does anyone think Toyota, Honda, and the others won’t be close behind?)

So will there be enough lithium? That’s a thorny question, and the probable answer is troubling:

Lithium is a strategic commodity with most of the world’s supply coming from Chile and Argentina. (Brazil apparently also has some reserves.) World production and demand are now closely balanced and there is little excess supply to meet the already growing demand for smaller lithium batteries to supply consumer electronics. A world-class company deciding to use massive amounts of lithium will surely put big smiles on the faces of the lithium speculators of the world.

Part of GM’s challenge will not only be hoping their supplier can develop a practical, low-cost, reliable (one that doesn’t tend to overheat and explode), lithium-ion battery, but also to keep the price of lithium from shooting through the ceiling as they get closer to the rollout date of the Volt. (Perhaps GM has already been secretly buying Chilean lithium mines?)

Let’s also hope Chile, Argentina, and Brazil don’t decide to become the Organization of Lithium Exporting Countries (OLEC) – we've already had more than our share of problems with OPEC.

Could it be we will some day curse “Big Lithium” as we now curse “Big Oil?”

I can see some design elements from both the Saturn Curve and Chevy Nomad concept cars in the Chevy Volt. Speaking of Nomad, why isnt it in your lineup-a home run hitter sitting on the bench?

The Volt is an interesting concept. I like the plastic panels, Bob. I would bet a lot of Saturn owners will be interested for this reason as well. The EV1 had an aluminum chassis, the Volt should also, since it would reduce overall vehicle weight by 100-200 pounds. The Honda Insight was built with an aluminum chassis as well.

Imagine what the weight reduction would be on an aluminum chassis, plastic paneled Silverado or Escalade? GM has two of its four spaceframe plants half empty. No other manufacturer could even come close to the unit volume GM could produce. That technology could be a game changer, with the right product mix.

GM should consider using the Kappa platform instead for Volt. A spaceframe will minimize overall vehicle weight, while maintaining 5 star crash ratings. Kappa has a much better rear suspension and rear brakes than what is proposed for Volt.

Be first to market and you will have a hit on your hands.

Am now commuting in a GM-built S10 electric truck and my wife just bought a prius. I would trade both in a heartbeat for a less-bulging version of this vehicle.

The Volt is a great idea. I may buy a Cherolet someday. Please don't make it look too futuristic.

I would like to 2nd (or 3rd) the vote for adding an option for the nanosolar thin film cells on the roof. Should cost GM practically nothing as it would only be provided to customers willing to pay.

I like the power train concept. But the body style is not what I'm looking for. I want a good looking car but I really want a practical body style more. That means a wagon style. Next best is a hatch-back. One of the reasons the Toyota Prius has done so well (and why I bought one) is not just because it is a high-MPG hybrid, but because of the cargo-friendly body style and and many interior niceties. You should keep in mind that for a big ticket item like this I want more than a pretty face; in fact practical features are more important to me.

More on my previous post (that the batteries are already here, and that it's just a cost issue), see:

http://www.calcars.org/calcars-news/653.html

Tax breaks are the way to get the initial cost down. This car will actually reduce the amount of oil this country needs to import. If that's not worthy of a tax break, I don't know what is. You've got a receptive Congress who'll be happy to see the break go to an American company. Let's do it!

Suprize us and get this out in 2008 or SOONER!

GM is on the right track with this one, but they need to take it one step further. Is it that difficult to create an all electric vehicle with a plug-and-play option for longer trips? Removable power sources with a better controller would be a more flexible design.

I don't understand why an electric car has such a big grill, but other than that all I can say is build it build it build it.

I would love to see this technology applied to a pickup truck with a real towing capacity of say 5000 or more pounds. To be able to commute under electric power, and have enough torque to pull a boat, would be a dream come true for me. I'll start saving right now for such a driveway mate for our Prius.

The Volt is the answer now.Since 1983 I have only purchased GM products usually every 3 or 4 years.That would continue indefinitly if GM would produce the Volt before another company beats you to the market.This is your baby make it walk.

The people are unanimously in favor of getting this car to market ASAP! Suggest you get your dealer network to start taking advance orders so that you can accelerate the introduction. All I see is upside for this solution.

Fantastic concept car! I've been a GM credit card holder for 15 years and have used the savings he purchase my last 2 vehicles. I used to be a stockholder too, but have been discouraged with GM's direction for some time. Since before the EV1 I've followed electric power for cars. It didn't take much reading to determine that technology available back then did not Support all electric consumer autos, but it was capable enough for hybrids (or range extenders if you prefer). I expected to see something like this from GM a while ago, but am pleased by GM's commitment to build E-flex vehicles. I only wish GM would commit to build them sooner, with technology available today. The hybrid Saturn Vue, Silverado, and new efficient Tahoe and Yukon show GM has listened some and they are commendable. I am willing to buy another GM, but the next car I buy in 2-3 years will be a plug-in.

E-flex is a great idea, especially for a global company like GM. That's what an electric drivetrain allows for, tremendous flexibility. 50mpg using a 50Kw generator sounds very efficient. Is this genset currently available or is there some development needed for this component too?

The Volt concept raises a lot of questions. For instance: if I drive from San Francisco to LA (a distance of 400 miles) at 80 miles per hour and the battery runs low after 40 miles, does the little gas engine produce enough juice to keep me going at 80 MPH? - Posted by: EJ
It would definitely be good to hear some more about the Volt's design and especially more detail about the controls. The Volt's specs do show the generator capable of 53KW peak output. Traveling 80 MPH would consume approximately 13kW. AC load is relatively minor, so there shouldn't be a problem going 80 uphill. Acceleration may be limited at times but it appears they don't intend to drain the battery completely and it sounds like they intend to charge the battery with the generator. I hope they also plan to power the motor directly too, without going through the losses of the battery as much as possible.

Some have expressed concerns about battery charging just moving pollution from the tailpipe to coal fired power plants. While pollution from power plants is a legitimate concern, it should not be one boo plug-ins. Only 23% of energy production in she US in 2005 came from coal (http://www.eia.doe.gov/emeu/aer/pdf/pages/sec1.pdf) and a lot of the charging energy will come from existing excess grid capacity. Grid capacity is sized for peak demand, which occurs during the day while most business are operating. Additionally, newer plants (of all fuel types) are much cleaner than previous versions. An even better reason to support plugins, is the flexibility they provide that GM is so vociferously touting. Currently there is a tremendous amount of investment in solar PRODUCTION (not research) capacity (several hundreds of millions of dollars, perhaps in the billions)! Electricity can come from many sources, including your home's roof!

So, GM, instead of pressuring Congress to lower CAFE standards, why don't you get them to enact a $6000 tax rebate for plug-in hybrids - Posted by: timbo
Excellent idea! How about start at $4500 for 10 mile battery and increase $500 for each additional 10 miles of battery capacity. Incentives to buy products work best.

Please don't forget to include ample outputs, 120v and/or 240v. Home gensets cost a lot and there are a lot of folks along the coast that would love to have the 50KW generator for backup power, hot to mention as a remote power source too. If this could be done and the tax incentive too, then I could afford to spend $10-15K more for the Volt than for a conventional auto. And that's before considering operational cost savings.

Can I have the option regarding all electric range (40-60-90-120 miles) at extra cost when I purchase. Can I use it as an auxiliary power source for my home in case of emergency and for power tools, toys etc. with 120/240vac plugs under hood, in the trunk and maybe under the front seat? - Posted by: Tim
If the E-flex concept is flexible on the "source of electricity" end, couldn't you also make the battery pack modular in a way that it could keep up with emerging battery technology? I say this not only to make the car more obsolete-proof, but thinking that you could target a Volt to appear sooner (like 2010) - Posted by: Bob Larson
In mass production, those NiMH Ovonics batteries can be placed inexpensively in a Volt TODAY. - Posted by: Arthur Keller
Take 1/4 or so of those batteries if weight and cost is an issue - 30 miles range is plenty if you have the engine onboard to recharge them while you go. - Posted by: Cor van de Water
Come on the EV1 was a 2 seat car and it could go 140 miles are you seriously telling us that in 2007 with the improvements that have been made in batteries that GM’s engineers can’t build a 4 seat car with a 40 mile range? - Posted by: Benjamin Howard
What everyone is saying here (I apologize to all those who had similar comments that weren't included) is that a Volt or some iteration of the E-flex system can't come soon enough and the technology is already available to design a sellable car now. Another consistent theme is to include as much "flex" in E-flex as is possible. There are better high power energy storage devices available today than LI. Unfortunately, the one's practical for cars have low energy density but they can be coupled with a LI or more convention battery to augment peak power during acceleration. Thus, you could start with a 10 mile pack and not sacrifice performance or utility.

E-flex is a bold step, TAKE IT NOW!

A couple of things left off earlier post.

A seldom discussed pollution issue with cars is break dust. This is another benefit of electric drivetrains and regenerative breaking. So, not only does economy improve and break component maintenance gets reduced, but pollution also is reduced. I'll take the clear skies over the red haze any day.

One high power, lower energy density technology for augmenting acceleration and allowing smaller battery packs that I'm sure GM is well aware of is ultracapacitors (see http://www.maxwell.com/ultracapacitors/products/modules/bmod0063-125v.asp). They have tremendous cycle life and efficiency, perfect for capturing regen break energy and for acceleration loads.

Don't induction motors generally get more efficient as they get larger, more powerful? Would a 190-210kw motor make sense if it were more efficient and only weighed a few pounds more. This would allow for a single drivetrain to be used in more applicationS, more flexibility. Along the lines of increased flexibility and power is mode selectable performance when it is appropriate. Upon engaging the car, the user could select max efficiency, max performance, or max range. Of course the mode could be changed during operation too.

Of course, all of this is much easier said than engineered.

Good luck and shoot for 2008 for production.

Oops, 2005 US electric generation was 50% not 23% from coal.

Im what you probably would call a "treehugger" living in Denmark. I own a company developing energy saving devices and I try to use public transport whenever possible.
I have always had small, fuel efficient cars (mainly FIAT) and would NEVER buy an American car!

UNTIL NOW!

Get the Volt to market faster than a.s.a.p. and I would love to be the first to drive one here in Denmark!!
Remember that this country is only some 200 x 200 miles, so the range of the Volt would be sufficient for most people here.

GREAT concept and cool design.

Get it out to us now and don't get overtaken by the Japanese!

Regards,

Danny

Don't wait, build the Chevy Volt now. You must also bring back the EV1. And this time forget the renting and sell it.

While waiting for a GM EV,
I will continue using my 1999 Ford Ranger EV NiMH battery pack.

Just had to mention (if anyone has been reading ALL the comments) that "force equals mass times acceleration" and "impulse equals mass times change in velocity".

I teach science here in Michigan and am happy to see that the Volt has instilled some hope in Michigan being seen as an automotive leader. I recently heard Tesla is "coming to town" as well. The more, the merrier. The "green" people around here have gone beyond the idealism of environmental husbandry and into a practical realism that I think the public can really latch onto.

I'm glad GM has seen this, and seems to be working on practical solutions. My humble advice is to do this quickly, but do it right. The last thing ANYONE needs is for consumer confidence to plummet because of problems due to the need to get-it-out-quick.

The time-line of getting out a spendy sporty version in 2008 and making available a practical non-buggy under 30K version in 2010 is fine with me.

The first company to market a reliable all electric will get my business. For a daily driver to a from work at 70miles a day I am sold the moment its out. Reliable and first...It could look like the Aztek and I would still buy it.

Oh yea, the volt looks fine to.

Yo Bender,

1. A diesel generator vs. a gasoline generator is only 24% more efficient (remember this is not a parallel hybrid).
2. Currently diesel is 16% more expensive than gasoline (lowest cost today).
3. Gasoline is 12% more efficient than E85 (but contains 600% more petroleum products!!)

Therefore, if 'the name of the game' is to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil then you’ll have to put your money where your mouth is and buy the Volt and run it on E85.

And Gary, the batteries in the Volt are Nanoscale LI and are not subject to the thermal runaway problems associated with conventional Hi-Power Lithium-Ion batteries found in laptops and the like. (read more, blog less)

While Chrysler has sold out to the Germans and Ford has been passed over by the Japanese, GM is the only one keeping the flag from being trodden on. So either 'get the picture' or 'get the shaft'!

GM, GREAT CAR!!
CAN'T WAIT TO DRIVE IT.
CAN'T WAIT TO BUY IT.

Great looking car but you need to accelerate the time line. Too much of the market share is being lost to the Japanese. Why not produce some cars right now and let consumers drive them on an experimental basis like your EV program, this should give GM an early introduction date.
Also how about the same concept and platform on a luxury car like the Cadilac.

Great concept.

Forget lithium based batteries due to skyrocketing raw material cost, safety and liability risks, and endless engineering challenges of dealing with inherently runaway checmical reactions.

My advice: check out Firefly Energy batteries instead and get this car to market ASAP. Who knows how much time we have? Come on ... get a move on.

JP

I am waiting for a plug in flex fuel vehicle. I hope you come out with the vehicle first! I can't imagine that Toyota and Honda are not almost there!
We waited for GM to fix this awful lack of imagination and environmental concern for a long time. It would be wonderful to be able to go back to GM.

Therefore, if 'the name of the game' is to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil then you’ll have to put your money where your mouth is and buy the Volt and run it on E85. - Da Fonz

Biodiesel is less energy intensive to create than ethanol, does not alter performance of diesel engines, and is more readily available. That's why I want a diesel car. I know where I can get biodiesel nearby. To get E85 I'd have to use half the tank just to get home.

I've been reading about the wonderful success of GM in the Detroit auto show and now that they may bring back an electric vehicle makes me think twice after Toyota introduced its larger and more standard powered Tundra. I think the big two (Ford and GM since Daimler-Chrysler is foreign owned now) really might want to consider joining forces, because if you don't, it could mean the end in America for the American Dream. I don't know, it depends on the share holders considering the joining of two companies that hold junk-bond status doesn't seem lucrative, but we're talking about the future success for both companies with electric car technology and continuing to stand the last ground in American manufacturing industry. It can't hurt either Ford or GM to share technology together in the electric car or other development even if they still stay as two seperate entities. If you think this shouldn't happen, just play Allentown by Billy Joel.
Og

It's time to stop saying that the vehicle is still waiting for the battery technology before it can be produced. Use the 35kw battery pack that AltairNano is providing to Phoenix Motors! This will give the Volt a range of over 100 miles on electric only. Having this much "EV only" range available would be great for those of us with a long daily commute, and I'll bet would be acceptable as 'good enough' until an even better battery is available (perhaps if this one ever needs to be replaced).

Get it done and let us start taking advantage of the opportunity.

Is there enough Li in the world for enough batteries?

Wind is a cube function...how about a more aerodynamic body and better visibility for safer driving?

Hope the electronics are better than standard GM...If the acceptable failure rate for GM electronics had been stringent, GM would probably be making money now.

How about this technology in large pickups and SUVs? Bigger impact on overall fuel use and great torque for hauling. Not to mention having a generator at hand for remote job sites.

Bling makes it swing, style's worthwhile, but while everyone's being cute the planet's goin' down the chute.
Make a plesant looking "everyman's" car that will get you to and from faster than a brisk trot and JUST DO IT!

This is a graet car Gm should take into production right now and i don't know where they are waiting fore because the batteries the Volt needs are already there delivered by Altairnano Abbat A123 and electrovaya. Take also a look at the 640hp Mini QED constructed by PML .success wih this braketrough concept.

I think this car is way less visually appealing than the EV1 - tone down the techno design!!

But what REALLY matters is that GM is moving in the right direction (after swaying so terribly wrong). Electric vehicles are the way to go, if we as a nation also invest in alternative electrical plants (wind, solar)- I am driving a 2003 diesel jetta now - and fill it with 98% biodiesel - but would love to trade it in for a plug in due to the unsustainable practice of soycropping....

We American consumers are awake and environmentally aware - Glad to see the Car Companies are finally catching up!

This car is what I want - I live if North Ogden, Utah - Cold winters - Hot summers - I would love to test one ASAP. Let me know if you need testers for extreme climates - Put me on your list of buyers...

Build it. I want to drive a clean car!!

If this car does what you say it will do, you have changed the world. The E-Flex propulsion system is an elegant design. I would love to see this in an Opel Astra body style. What about a pop-up recharging nozzel that you drive into a receptor basket that is installed in your garage. Kind of like an in-flight refueling connection.

Please, please, please build this car, or one similar to it.

The only things I would change is that I would try to bring the side glass up a little bit, so that it is in line with the "belt line" of the greenhouse.

Other than that, the car is absolutely stunning, and the concept is stunning. I know everyone in my family would seriously consider buying one. I know almost for sure I would.

I am so excited about the prospect of being able to go virtually gas free!

Build it, Build IT, BUILD IT!

I hope you build this car and begin selling by the end of 2010. I'll be the first of many to buy this vehicle to do the right thing:
- make american car makers great again!
- save our enviroment to save our children

I just hope this is not a project that will come to reality when I am 40-50 years old, and I'm only 25!

It's about time!
You better hurry... Toyota is leading the way. My next car will be an EV and I hope it is a Chevy Volt.

I can't wait to buy a Volt! I hope it's out in a few years. Sign me up! I'd pay up to 35k for this sweet car. I hope GM can deliver on this car as it would be a great step forward.

I am currently on the market for this exact vehicle. Too bad it won't see the light of day for a while. Well, I'm off to buy a Toyota or a Honda. Cya

It seems to me, that if American companies want to survive in this industry, then they better da**ed well start being the leaders in developing, and bringing to market truly eco-friendly cars, or they may as well pack it in...'cause it's a comin' with or without you.

If this car came to market tomorrow, and was priced competitively (I would be willing to pay a premium), I would buy one tomorrow...sign me up.

I agree with the above comments. Please build this awsome car. It is super cool!!!

This is a great idea for a car. I hope you start building them soon. I would buy one in a heartbeat.

I've been a car guy for a while and I've never seen a reaction like this. Further, I've never personally had a reaction like this.

THIS IS THE ONE. DO IT. DO IT NOW.
This vehicle could change everything, but please don't wait for perfection, because you'll miss a huge opportunity. As soon as you have something reliable, that won't break down, put it in the showroom. We know the tech is still in the development stage and consumers if advised of the facts before purchasing will buy even while there are still weaknesses. There is an insatiable hunger out there. The messages above indicate you've got green conscienciousness, oil dependence/security fears, and good ole nationalism just waiting for a champion. Embrace it, we beg you.

Put a basic version on the road as soon as you possibly can and add options, other models, try out and perfect all the different fuel variants after. You could make headlines every 3 months as the newest upgrade comes out for what could be one of the most marketable powertrains ever. As is mentioned above, you leave a space for an extra long range battery, add the solar panels (even if the actual power produced is only a mere drop in the bucket, it would be a marketing coup, imagine racing stripes of solar panels!!), start with a simple gas or diesel and add the E85, biodiesel, and fuel cell variants as you go. How about a commitment to have a E-flex option available for every Chevy or GM model within 10 years. On a side note for any Canucks, Alaskans, or Nordic natio