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GM-Volt Exclusive Feature: Ask the Chevy Volt Leadership Team Your Questions
One of the most important things we are doing here at GM-Volt.com is building a community of people who are interested in owning and driving this groundbreaking new car. We are striving to keep the development of this car as transparent and accessible to the public as possible, and allow for public feedback to GM about the car and the process. We also help to educate one another and people new to the idea of the range-extended electric car.
To these ends, I have been given the opportunity in the immediate future to sit down with the Volt’s top-tier executive management team to discuss the current state of Chevy Volt development and related issues.
I wish we could all be there, but I am your willing representative. In keeping with that role I would really like to bring your questions to the table and get them answered individually.
These are the General Motors executives with whom I’ll be speaking:
Bob Lutz: GM Vice Chairman (buck stops there)
Frank Weber: E-Flex Vehicle Line Executive (head of the whole E-Flex/Chevy Volt team)
Denise Gray: Director of Advanced Battery Systems (in charge of the lithium-ion battery)
Tony Posawatz: E-Flex Vehicle Line Director (in charge of E-Flex/Volt engineering)
Bob Boniface: Director of E-Flex Design (in charge of the car’s interior/exterior design/appearance)
In the comments of this post, write any questions you have for any of these individuals. Please try to keep the questions brief and clear. Also read the questions of others so as not to duplicate them. Also check with our brand-new Chevy Volt FAQ to see if the answer is already there. If you have suggestions for the team members, try to put them in the form of a question.
Direct your questions to the appropriate member. Keep in mind that I will happen to have the most access to Denise Gray and Tony Posawatz, and the least access to Bob Lutz.
I will do my best to ask your specific questions and get the responses back to you here. My reports will likely be in multiple media forms including audio, video, and text.
OK folks, bring ‘em on!
[UPDATE 11/14/07 8:30AM EST: Thanks for all your questions. Meetings are over. I got to MANY of them and great answers. I will post the responses in digestible and discussable segments over the next couple of days]
November 11th, 2007 at 3:06 pm
I have few questions.
1) What will be the exact calender and cycle life of the battery upto which I could get 40 miles per charge ? warranty on the battery ?.
2) How many people can Volt accomodate ?
3) How the people staying in apartments are going to charge the car ? Are you planning to have any arrangement with local electric utility companies ?
4) What will be cargo storage volume?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:08 pm
5) What will be the approximate electric range with A/C or Heater on ?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:09 pm
I think this question would be better answered by Frank Weber: How will the Volt perform in cold environments such as Winnipeg, Canada?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:12 pm
Also, how will electronics like the A/C, heat, stereo, affect the 40 mile range of the batteries?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:16 pm
When will the Volt’s final design be released, either in picture format or an actual vehicle?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:20 pm
What would be the barriers to releasing the Volt in 2009?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:28 pm
Tony Posawatz: At what constant speed will the Volt achieve a 40 mile range?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:29 pm
In addition to the questions above I would like to know:
1] Beside not putting any fuel in the vehicle, will there be a way to prevent the charging engine from kicking in at the 50% charge level so those of us that would like to extend the electric only range without having to use it could do so?
2] Will the Volt be sole through the traditional dealer channel, and at what point will the local dealers be able to take confirmed orders?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:33 pm
Frank Weber or Denise Gray:
1. Are you conducting or funding research into other energy storages such as ultra-capacitors or other exotic battery types that may have a faster recharge time or be able to store more energy at similar weights to the expected battery packs?
2. From the information we have been given, you goal is to design a flexible system that can combine the energy storage with and variety of energy producing range extenders. Is the range extending system going to be easily “pluggable” so that if a different fuel source from gasoline, ethanol or diesel becomes available, we will be able to purchase/exchange the range extender and not a whole new car?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:43 pm
Another question for Frank Weber or Denise Gray:
Will we be able to ’swap’ the battery in the future for ones which have faster charging time, or longer range, once the first battery can’t be charged any longer?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:49 pm
What is the anticipated price for the Volt?
What is the expected warranty on the car and batteries?
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November 11th, 2007 at 3:57 pm
Where will the charging ports be located and what will the interface look like? Will there be one on the front for better access in certain situations?
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:01 pm
When coming out, will the car will be delivrable to Europe.
And when coming to Europe will it run on a low taxed fuel like biodiesel or diesel.
BTW I’m driving 45.000km each year, between 200 and 300 km a day, I’m looking forward to drive with cheap and green electricity assistance.
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:07 pm
When do think the Volt could be a 200 mile range Lithium Battery or (Other) all electric no gas bakup car?
comment: I’d like an all electric because I rarely go out side 5 miles from my home
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:11 pm
The Opel version of the car is far more appealing (much better looking) than the American version. Will it be available in the US?
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:14 pm
1. We’ve heard various quoted 0-60 times between 5 and 8 seconds. This is a huge range. Do you have a more accurate estimate now?
2. How can one apply for a job working specifically on the e-Flex platform?
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:26 pm
For Denise Gray: Its been noted that the batteries will be a challenging part of the Volt system. While I’m sure everyone aspires to no failures ever, every kind of system fails occasionally. Can you help us understand what sort of failures may occur, how often that might happen, and what one does in response? (Big batteries like these will be a whole new world for those of us who are customers.)
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:28 pm
Hi! First of all, let me so congratulations on your efforts to be a pioneer in bringing an electric vehicle like no other to the market. I was wondering if you forsee the possibility of utilizing a diesel engine to recharge the batteries as opposed to a gas engine in order to get the most mileage possible from the Volt. Can’t wait until it hits the showroom.
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:33 pm
Denise Gray: Will 220v charging of battery be an option?
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:39 pm
As additional E-Flex vehicles, beyond the Volt, get designed and produced, will they be designed to always have 40 mile all electric range. For example, if you created a larger vehicle based on the size of the Saturn Aura, would you provide a larger battery?
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
I would like to expand on the 0-60 issue. What are the barriers to a sub 7 time. I am personally not a tire-screacher, but I would love to see BMW or Acura sedan performance (low to mid 6’s).
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November 11th, 2007 at 4:49 pm
Here we are at almost $100.00/barrel oil prices with most of the availability in the Middle East. GM has a unique opportunity here to help the United States cut our ties to foreign oil.
I would like to understand why it’s going to take 3+ years to come to market with this vehicle.
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:03 pm
When 90 percent of americans travel less than 75 miles in a trip, why do we have to wait for the long extended battery ranges to be developed… with the aux power to charge the battery, can we use what we have an evolve from there… bernie g
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:07 pm
Would you ever need people to drive the volt to help work out the bugs? I’d sure would love the opportunityto help you out if you would need it. Sorta like a proto- type car that you allow me to drive to see if it works out ok!
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:11 pm
My question is … will this vehicle be affordable to everyone or is there a target level we should know about before we get our hopes up… will it be priced like a Cobalt or a Cadillac
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:23 pm
Question directed to Denise Gray – Director of Advanced Battery Systems:
Will you offer an optional HEV battery for individuals, who don’t have a nearby outlet and are interested in the impressive fuel economy, to use the car solely as a series hybrid?
~ M. Reno – Student, Georgia Institute of Technology
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:28 pm
Will consumers have the opportunity to “Beta test” the Volt before it’s rolled out to the marketplace? If so, I hope such an opportunity isn’t restricted to drivers in California! (I live in Michigan.)
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:33 pm
Hi:
My first question is: when will the Volt be in the showrooms?
In my opinion – in order for the Chevrolet Volt to be successful – it should have clean emissions, it should be affordable (less than $25,000), it should have a range of 30 miles or more at 50 MPH in all-electric mode, it should have plug-in capability, and the battery pack should last at least 5 years and be maintenance free.
So my second question is: will it have the above characteristics?
Best wishes,
Jim C.
Worthington, Ohio
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:34 pm
Mr. Boniface:
1. Are you approaching final design specs for the instrumentation cluster?
2. Will there be options for upgrading to a digital/graphic display, if it is not going to be how the standard version is to be designed?
3. Will we be able to see any of this before the release of the vehicle?
Thank you.
I think we are all eagerly waiting for this vehicle to be available!
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:39 pm
I WANT THIS CAR…PERIOD!
1. At what price point is this car to be offered?
2. What, if any, tax saving incentives are there when purchasing this great new Hybid vehicle?
3. Are there any dealership incentives to buyers for buying this Hybrid vehicle?
4. Are there any safety issues with regards to this vehicle’s ability to get off the line in regular traffic; stalling out, taking too long to get going, reasonable acceleration issues, etc…?
5. To what current vehicle will the new Volt be compared to in crash safety tests?
Bottomline for me, I WANT THIS VEHICLE! NO MORE B.S. gas price problems. If you can help the world show the way to better fuel options, you will have more support than you can imagine!!! The time for this change is perfect with the world’s oil markets and new regimes and this would send a terrific message to everyone!
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:48 pm
When will the volt be available in the
West Ga. area and how much (approx.) will it cost?
Keep up the good work!
Dave
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November 11th, 2007 at 5:58 pm
Too bad there isn’t comment threading on this blog. Many of these questions have been addressed in the FAQ or in recent interviews etc.
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:05 pm
Tesla is claiming a 245 mile all electric range between recharging at approximately $100,000 per copy. An average Joe can’t afford their product. Toyota states that extended range plug ins are not economically feasible due to present battery technology limitations. Honda states they will never offer a plug in Civic. We all know how disappointing the Ford Escape hybrid is. Can GM really bring an affordable, practical EV to market or is the Volt a pipe dream???
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:07 pm
My question is: Are you still considering leasing the batteries or selling them with the car? If you are selling the car at or near $30,000, is that the price with leasing the batteries separate or selling the batteries with the car? If you are leasing, what will the leasing arrangements be. I realize we are still 2 yrs away from production but it’s still would be nice to know our options.
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:09 pm
When will a serial hybrid AWD vehicle be available?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:15 pm
I’d like you to send the responces for the above stated questions please.
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:17 pm
is this going to be better than the ZapX?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:20 pm
Would it be feasible to design the vehicle so the battery could be easily ejected and exchanged to eliminate the driver’s wait time for recharging?
Could the existing infrastructure of gasoline stations be exchange points for a recharged battery?
Could solar and/or wind-powered charging units be developed so the environmental impact of the added load of electric cars on our existing power plants (most of which are coal-fired) be lessened?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:21 pm
I don’t like the design of the car. I’m a senior citizen and have back problems. I wouldn’t be able to get in and out pf the auto. Also you are talking about leasing the batteries. I think your trying to turn people off, but yuis time the electric car is here to stay with or without GM.
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:32 pm
To Tony Posawatz and if possible Bob Boniface :
Living in Western Europe and owning two Opels each one with a CDTI (common rail diesel turbo injection) engine, both excellent cars of high quality and realibility, I intend to replace them both with a PHEV in 3 to 5 years.
Since the IAA in Frankfurt in September we did not get any news about the Opel Flextreme, is it possible that its evolution follows the Volt one’s ?
May we apply the answers to the above questions to the Opel Flextreme or one of its evolutions ?
We cannot wait to exchange our old ICE cars for electric cars, the price ot gas and diesel are a really too high and a lot of people “convert” the fuel their use : for instance, this morning on the highway E42 towards France, the fumes of a german Mercedes didn’t look and smell like usual … and the heating fuel is not always heating houses …
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:33 pm
Questions 26 and 32 refer to this, but the question is: “As batteries are the big stumbling block, why don’t you make a Series Hybrid not requiring any batteries at all? – It would be far more efficient than any ICE car to date. Future models could be made as plug-in when the battery technology is proven. Of course nobody has answered my previous questions as to why modern NiMh which IS proven could not be used in the interim. Can ‘Battery Tzar’ answer the question that nobody else will?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:36 pm
What is the status of powertrain development?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:40 pm
Do you have any prototypes available? We are your typical family who cares about the environment and hates to pay for gasoline whose funds go to people who may not agree with our lifestyle. My children are about to drive and need to see that their is a choice. If we enlist the leaders of our country, we could get GM back as the number one auto company in the world and change the future. We are very interested and will help in any way possible.
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:40 pm
The current image seems a rebadging of an earlier Saab concept vehicle. Will other Saab design chacteristics (safety and the like) be incorporated?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:41 pm
At a constant highway speed of 65 mph, what range will the batteries have before the ICE turns on?
At a constant highway speed of 65 mph, what range will the batteries have with the A/C , high beams, windshield wipers, rear defog, cruise control, and radio all turned on, before the ICE turns on?
Will the dealers be allowed to price gouge?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:47 pm
Sine GM lost 39B last quarter, are green cars looked at as the savior of the company?
And what do you have to say about this got that gets great gas mileage from his Hummer?
http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/120/motorhead-messiah.html
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:51 pm
I will by buying a Volt as soon as it is available, but I have 1 question and one suggestion:
Suggestion:
Since the gasoline will in many cases sit in the car for so long that it will go bad, I suggest having a computer controlled fuel stabilizer tank that can ensure that the fuel stays viable. Gasoline only lasts months before it breaks down.
Question:
Electric cars have been with us since the late 1800’s. Hybrids have been with us since 1899. The cars of choice in the late 1800’s were electric because they did not need to be cranked and did not emit smoke. This car is the same basic design as a few vehicles that hit the road between 1899 and 1910, it is a series hybrid, why do you not want to call it what it is, a series plug in hybrid?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:53 pm
In 1999 I bought an overpriced Chevy blazer that within 8 months practically fell apart. Headlights turning themselves off, transmission line blowing going down the highway practically causing a major highway accident, abs brake system failure and so forth. You killed the electric car and could have been a world leader again had you not. Now you claim to offer us a revolutionary product that for me is not going to be available during our most critical time. So my questions for you are:
1. What committment to quality do you expect?
2. Why is your timeframe so distant for release?
3. After years of abuse and financial loses such as the $39 billion recently, why should I believe that you GM will provide me a cost effective product instead of raping us like you did the blazer?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:55 pm
How many kW Hours will fully recharge the battery?
This will answer everyone’s question of the price of fuel vs. price of electricity.
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:57 pm
I’m a yankee and if I get a Volt I will be in it for the long haul. I’m interested in knowing how much battery life will be left after 10 years and 175,000 miles. My newest cars are 9 year old Volvos, my oldest is a 12 Mercedes. What will reliability of electrical drive train?
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November 11th, 2007 at 6:58 pm
When entering a VOLT during the summer or winter, and the car’s interior temperature need to be reduced or increased, will it be possible to turn on the HVAC and cool/heat the VOLT by using juice from the external
grid connection, before unplugging and driving off? A feature like this would presumably save the battery from having to
power the initial heavy load of getting the interior temperature where it needs to be
and allow for a longer battery powered driving range.
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:03 pm
I’m very interested in the possibility of
faster charging via a 220 volt receptacle
in my garage during the daylight hours. At what amperage rate (30, 40, 50, etc) will your 220 V charger allow the batteries to be charged?
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:03 pm
Im pleased to see a small number wonder why the release date cant be bought forward. After Pickens comments about oil demand now exceeding suppy it may be heroic if the designers start to do double shifts and get the Volt out during 2009.
I guess toolmakers dont have any part in the process any longer. What are the impediments?
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:05 pm
For any of the execs:
Having just returned from Disney World, why are the GM reps there telling guests there that the Volt won’t be available until 2012 at the earliest due to battery problems, and that they have never heard of a plug-in Saturn Vue? Second, when are they going to consider adding a display there on eFlex similar to the current Hybrid display? The Test Track ride that exits into the GM display area sees tens of thousands of people daily, and is the perfect spot to generate some interest!
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:09 pm
Battery range should be the only major issue. Bring the car with the features and design as advertized ASAP at the lowest possible cost even if you miss the battery range. However design the battery to be upgraded at reasonable cost by Chevrolet as battery technology improves. Also sell spare battery packs that are easy for customers to exchange.
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:09 pm
Will GM design in this idea of 4-5 levels of speed/cruise control for down hill travel without applying brakes, i.e. use regenerative braking or acceleration as required? The driver should just select from the control panel which setting you want to be traveling. I also suggest that you let the driver set the 4-5 speed/cruise controls and have the computer remember those speeds after the car is turned off or until reset by the driver.
This feature would also be good for transitioning from highway speeds to in-town driving and vise-versa.
Will there be a coasting mode that does not go into the regenerative braking as the driver lets his foot off the accelerator? I understand some think this lack of coasting is an annoying feature of the Prius.
If there is a coasting mode then that actually means to the computer to set speed/cruise control and keep same speed unless (1) brake is applied or (2) accelerator is depressed more or (3) unless one of the 4-5 levels of speed/cruise control is selected for a different speed. Otherwise letting off accelerator means reduce speed. I believe the above multi-level speed/cruise control would ease driver fatigue if a positive constant accelerator action is required for normal non-speed/cruise control driving. The driver has several speeds from which to select.
How will the feel of driving an electric car differ from driving an ICE car?
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:10 pm
Incredible! I have read this blog for months, usually amazed at the commonsense, business acumen & insight shown by most of the people that were responding.
Lyle posts an invitation to submit questions that will be asked of the GM reps, and it is like someone opened the floodgates of petty questions, incredibly precise questions about range and life expectancy for a product that has only been in the mules for a week or so, plus the questions/statements that show that a substantial portion of the people posting haven’t even looked at the FAQ or read more than one or two of the articles posted on this site…
I’d settle for:
1. Latest/best estimate for cost with battery included?
2. Latest/best estimate for range at 65 mph? Same with AC or heat? Best total range? At what speed?
3. Probably vehicle weight?
4. Chance of 2009 production in significant numbers?
5. When, approximately, will the follow-on models be announced, and approximately when can we expect them?
‘What will be the exact calender and cycle life of the battery upto which I could get 40 miles per charge ? warranty on the battery ?’
OK, my questions were fairly unrealistic too…
Anyway, Thanks, Lyle, please keep taking the time to get this info out, I hope you get the first Volt, for a price substantially below $30,000!
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:10 pm
First, my congratulations on an auto design that can reduce pollution, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, and increase the efficiency of our tranportation system. My questions are:
1) Will GM develop a new mileage rating in miles/kwh as well as mpg, as electricity is energy, and this rate of consumption needs to be known?
2) I assume the Volt will have heating and defrost, so will this come directly from electric resistance heating, or will some sort of a heat pump system be employed?
3) I believe the EV-1 had a synchronous motor drive with a variable frequency drive. Will a similar motor drive system be utilized on the Volt?
Thank you, and please keep pursuing these innovative technologies.
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:13 pm
All electric range of only 40 miles? You can get that from lead-acid batteries alone.
With lithium-ion OR nickle-metal hydride, you can get 100 miles easy.
If you guys don’t build the Volt, Toyota will release the next version of the Prius, a plug-in serial electric hybrid.
Don’t let it slip through your fingers again guys, build the Volt.
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:17 pm
Based on anticipated demand, how many Volts are planned to be produced the first year? Honda dealers were getting several $K over list price for their low-in-supply Insights.
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:18 pm
I apologize for my prior mispellings on my e-mail, my daughter sent the e-mail before I could correct the grammer and spelling.
Hopefully, the e-mails were clear enought to get my points across.
Kevon Wade
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:20 pm
I guess my questions go to Denise and Tony:
Will the car allow the driver to select which performance or economy he or she desires?
For example allowing the following modes:
1. Economy: reduced max acceleration; no acceleration equals neutral (for max coasting and no regen braking) and battery power is used exclusively until it is down to 20% to maximize EV-only range whic may lead to reduced performance occasionally. Traction control reduces motor power.
2. Normal: acceleration with rated power, when accelerator is released a light regen brake is performed to simulate engine drag and at standstill when the brake is released a light
creep is performed to give the feel of a car with automatic transmission. Battery is recharged when reaching 40% SOC (State of Charge). Traction control: see Performance.
3. Performance: acceleration can be turbo-boosted when flooring the accelerator by allowing above rated power as long as temperature of battery, motor and controller allow. Whenever rated power is demanded from the battery, it is being recharged as well as when it hits 50% SOC. When accelerator is released a slightly higher regen than normal is enabled to simulate drag from a larger engine.
Traction control is done by engaging a brake if only one wheel is spinning, so max traction is going to the other wheel(s).
Of course the driver must be able to smoothly switch from one mode to the other, for example if the charger comes on while he is almost back home he can switch to economy and make it back in EV mode to recharge at home. (or at work).
Ultimately the driver could select between different parameters to create his favorite driving mode, for example Performance acceleration to occasionally show off but Economy battery use to allow max EV range.
This would be a Personal profile, next to the factory defined profiles as listed above.
Another question: if there are problems with Li-Ion batteries according your statements, are you looking into releasing the first version of a Volt with NiMH batteries that have proven itself in over 1 Mio vehicles already?
I hear that KillaCycle has made it into the 7 seconds on the 1/4 mi so the performance of the A123 batteries seem to be impressive, there has never been a quicker EV.
Thanks, Cor.
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:21 pm
Tony Posawatz:
1. REGENERATIVE BREAKING
Will there be a way to turn regenerative breaking on/off? When lightly pressing on the break, will regenerative breaking only be used? For example, if you are traveling down a long incline, turning on the regenerative breaking would be a great way to slow the vehicle, but you want to ensure that the break pads are not in contact with the rotor.
2. “POWER TRAIN”
How does the electric engine link to the drive axle? Is the electric engine always in contact with the drive axle or is there a clutch mechanism? Does the electric engine rotate independently of the drive axle and apply power as requested from the “gas” peddle or does it spin in sync with the drive axle?
3. HEAT GENERATION
How does the heat generated from the electric motor compare to that of a regular Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)?
4. STIRLING ENGINE
Have you considered using a Stirling engine instead of an ICE? They are more energy efficient than gasoline or diesel powered ICE’s. It would be perfect for this application since the purpose of the engine is to generate electricity and would run at a constant power. You could even use the waste heat from the electric motor to heat the gas in the Stirling engine.
Bob Boniface:
5. TARGET DEMOGRAPHIC
Who is your target demographic? How is the car being tailored to meet their needs? The pictures that I’ve seen, it looks very stylish, however, I am concerned with not enough visibility.
Denise Gray:
6. BATTERY TEST REPORT
Will there be a publicly released report or paper on the battery testing? I am interested in performance, obviously, but also any risks or safety concerns that may arise.
PS – This forum is a great idea
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:23 pm
1) Are you going to use the Altair Nano- Lithium Battery technology which gets faster charges and less temperature degradation at hot or cold?
2) Are you just looking to get super Sexy looks … or are you really trying to put out
a quality product with long life and top sustainability aspects?
3) Will the 70 AMP 220 V circuit I have just wired to the garage for a Tesla also work for the volt?
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:23 pm
Ken Scott #55
I agree with you Ken, computers have been under contiuous improvemt for years, I think we can accept that an electric car can go down the same road(pun intended)
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:24 pm
Does the car have 2 or 4 doors?
Will you produce enough cars and/or mandate the pricing to prevent the dealers from driving the price up above the $30k range?
Given the perceived problem with Amercican and GM car quality with millions of American Consumers, will you provide a warranty that is longer than the current standard GM warranty (both bumper to bumper and battery)?
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:26 pm
My question is: Will I be able to change range-extender for a different type? For instance, if I buy a 2010 Chevy Volt, would I be able to change the gasoline range-extender for one powered by biodiesel or a fuel-cell, as they become available in the coming years?
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:28 pm
Given the life of the cars exceeds 20 years I feel the two mode hybrids should be deleted from any vehicle range that can be built with serial mode design.
Save it for the biggies like the Cadillac Escalade…love to own that thing..
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:28 pm
When will you start accepting deposits? Perhaps doing so would spur the developers.
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:33 pm
This question is for any of them:
Why will this thing get only 40 miles per charge? If thousands of individuals across the country can get over 100 miles per charge (using lead acid batteries)What’s the hangup for a multi billion dollar company? Look at what Tesla Motors is doing on miniscule budget. You guys gotta know this thing is your last shot, the last arrow in GM’s quiver. Don’t mess it up by being greedy. This is your chance to leapfrog Toyota and the other competition and do something great and needed for the American people(and your employees). Help get us off our addiction to oil and build the car we know you can. Give us 200 MPG and the American consumer and the world will be beating down your doorsteps!!!
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:35 pm
Is there any way to get Bob Lutz to drop the “If the battery development happens” nonsense? The 10 year old NiMH technology from the Rav4 would get the car on the road. The Volt is a hybrid. If the range was 10 miles it would be a world beater. You could do that with existing SLA batteries.
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:42 pm
For Bob Lutz:
Would you please consider making more than 60,000 of these? With my luck, no matter how hard I try, or get on a list, I’ll be potential purchaser number 60,001 and I’m afraid I won’t get one.
Thanks
Unluckie
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:44 pm
would a solar or wind power station be a viable option with the volt?
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:58 pm
Could there be a solar recharger to expose, such as in a sun roof or on the trunk lid, that could recharge while I’m at work 35 miles from home, or at the beach, where no plug-in is available?
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November 11th, 2007 at 7:59 pm
Has Chevrolet considered offering a Chevy Volt option that would be a thin film solar car cover to be used to cover a parked car configured so that it could put a charge into the Lithium ion battery while the car is parked for the day? In that way the typical commuter could charge his battery while parked during the day. It would be offered as an option, since some potential buyers might have their vehicle parked in a garage most of the time. The required modifications to the power electronics to allow recharge from the solar car cover as well as from the power grid by the plug-in should be minimal. The development of the thin film solar car cover could be brokered by Chevrolet as a development from some high-tech solar material company on the basis that if successfully developed and demonstrated by that company on their own resources, Chevrolet would facilitate the sale of the car covers through its sales outlets in a cost structure that would allow Chevrolet a profit on the costs of marketing, handling and warranty with the rest of the profit passing to the vendor. In initiating such an effort, Chevrolet might even entertain more than one potential vendor with the rose going to the company that best meets the requirement on schedule for the least cost. The carrot for the vendor would be access to a mass market and the name recognition coming from association with an American icon, newly re-created as the greenest of the green machines.
Millard S. Firebaugh
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:05 pm
I recently read in an auto magazine that it now looks like the Volt, because of its cost, will be released on the market as a Cadillac. Is there any truth to this rumor?
I’m like Unluckie in question 71, only I’ll bet that GM will not be willing to lose money on the Volt to get it out in the market, similar to what Toyota had to do when the Prius was in its first few years of production.
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:11 pm
I’ve noticed in the specification section/interior that leg room was 31.5 inchs. If that’s the case, then that would rule a lot of people out. Most small cars have 40 to 42 inchs. It would rule me out for sure, since i’m six foot three.
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:18 pm
Tim #75 that is an OLD rumor that was in print somewhere but has been dispelled on this site some time ago via GM.
Unlucky
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
1) can I put a deposit on one
will you need a $1,000 deposit?
2) will it recharge on either 110v (easier) or 220v
3) Rav4’s have gotton over 100,000miles, dude in Baltimore for one
4) will the software be hackable/open source for us shade tree mechanics to juice them up/study it
5) can we change/upgrade our battery packs ourselves
6) I drive about 25miles/day at about 35-40mph. Will I need a gas stabilizer?
7) can I put a $500 deposit on one
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:22 pm
How do the Volt batteries compare against that of Tesla Motors ?
http://www.teslamotors.com/display_data/TeslaRoadsterBatterySystem.pdf
http://www.teslamotors.com/efficiency/charging_and_batteries.php
Have you run competitive analysis against Tesla, ZENN, plug-in Prius+ (CalCars.org), etc?
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:35 pm
I came across either an advert or a review, most likely in the Ecomomist about this car before it took on a name. At the time, the body design was more transparent, lighter . . . and, the chassis was meant to accommodate several body types, almost like you could change your car, keeping the platform, much like you change your clothes. Has this “convertible” car idea passed away? Is is possible to own the platform for this car for many years while obtaining a new body every few years or so?
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
I came across either an advert or a review, most likely in the Economist about this car before it took on a name. At the time, the body design was more transparent, lighter . . . and, the chassis was meant to accommodate several body types, almost like you could change your car, keeping the platform, much like you change your clothes. Has this “convertible” car idea passed away? Is is possible to own the platform for this car for many years while obtaining a new body every few years or so?
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:36 pm
GM should consult Johnathan Goodwin
(as mentioned in FAST Company magazine
to convert 100-mpg cars)
for technical advice on
building Plug-in Hybrid bio-diesel
http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/120/motorhead-messiah.html
Also, are you closely following the
development of ultra-capacitor
EEStor or http://www.ultracapacitors.org
??? ZENN is trying to use EEStor.
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:39 pm
Congratulations on choosing the A123 Systems to work on your battery design and on the concept for Vehicle to Grid (V2G) possibilities that this vehicle may be capable of.
My only question is “When are you setting up a lay away plan so those of us who want one can put money down on this car now to ensure that we will get the first ones available?”
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:39 pm
I only buy american company cars. I like them. I’m happy to see that GM is working to develop an automobile that can help the environment.
Questions:Will you develop different ports for plugging in from the electric grid and from solar or other electric generating devices?
Has GM considered the use of a flexible solar panel to place on the car when it is in park? It may not charge the car completely but will provide some additional miles.
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
Would in-wheel motors be more efficient than the central motor/transmission design? It seems that would leave more room for batteries and less weight?
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:40 pm
Will it be available in Canada simultaneously? (And not with an extra price premium, as most cars are these days… even with the exchange rate in our favour now..)
Are you indeed serious (confirmed that it will be produced)? If so, I would contact government agencies and have them revise their ‘fuel efficient vehicles’ credits to include the series hybrid class of vehicles.
Why can’t you make a series hybrid now, using existing hybrid storage technology(battery) to temporarily hold power from the ICE to run the electric engine? (i.e. there is no long-term stored power, it is generated by the ice, sent through a battery to make an energy buffer, and then used by the electric motor to run the car)
This could be done now, if the rumours are true, all you’re waiting on is the batteries, right?
Perhaps you could even release this version now, with a space under the trunk or something, where battery packs and a charging unit could be installed in the future, when batteries are indeed ready.
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:42 pm
That is a lot of interest so far Lyle,
Perhaps you take a delegation to GM’s VP,
Im reminded of the Paris Mob that started the
French Revolution..
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November 11th, 2007 at 8:47 pm
Question 1:
Will GM offer a 120/240v generator as an option?
Follow up to question 1:
Will the generator be capable of operating as a whole house generator e.g. 240v split phase?
Follow up to question 1:
What would be the approximate power rating of an optional generator?
Question 2:
How do you see V2G fitting into GM’s plans, and does V2G work have any firm schedules?
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:01 pm
It’s very easy to make this car AWD. Will it be such?
What are the chances of the petrol engine being a hemi?
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:06 pm
Why does GM spend so much public relations resources on Hydrogen Fuel? The PR has not helped overcome the the projected costs, carbon issues and infrastructure obstacles. From a technology point of view, hydrogen fuel as the basis for fueling wide spread transportation is still in same category as developing an anti-gravity machine. Would not GM be better served and enhance its overall credibility by more promotion of the Volt rather than hydrogen fueled cars? When hydrogen is made from hydroCARBONs such as natural gas, where does the carbon go?
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:07 pm
Is there any reason you donot convert one of your existing cars into a volt and therefore keep the costs down rather that a complete new design and a faster delivery time.
ie. Honda civic hybrid
I know that that your existing cars may not fit for what you have in mind with the volt but where is the big difference that warrents a new design and all the expence with it.
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:10 pm
What provisions for Vehicle-to-Grid interaction are you planning? Will the vehicle charger be purely a charger or are you planning for a bidirectional capability, and if so, at what power level?
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:13 pm
The battery costs are considerable, so the frequency and cost of replacement is a concern. We owned a Prius that needed a new battery after about three years, at a cost of nearly $5000 — thankfully, covered under warranty.
What is GM doing to address this key concern?
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:15 pm
Also…
240v outlets are in North American homes for ovens and such. It wouldn’t be hard at all to port one to a garage and charge a car much faster than it would on a 120v outlet. Will GM be making the charger dual voltage?
Many many customers will be running entirely electric, meaning that the generator will be dead weight most of the time. It is plausible to make the range-extender modular and easily removable?
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:22 pm
Related to post 15 & 40.
Do you plan to introduce an E-Flex equipped SUV/crossover vehicle in the USA – around the same time the Volt is released ?
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:35 pm
Since a common short coming of hybrids is reduced trunk/storage space, why not start with what was known to my generation as a “station-wagon”? Toyota is headed in that direction with its Prius.
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:41 pm
I’m also interested in the use of the vehicle with A/C and heat, defogger grid on, etc.
My primary question on this has already been asked – but I’m also interested in hearing HOW you’re planning on handling the A/C and Heating needs.
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:46 pm
I’d like to reinforce questions 73, and 74. I think it would be great to incorporate solar panels into the sunroof and roof panel, and maybe the back window and trunk lid. Selling PV’s that could be installed on your garage would be a great option.
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:51 pm
Even with the recent troubles, I think GM is the car company of the future. This technology is pretty much the same as a diesel locomotive. I don’t think it is necessary to have big external design changes or a special model, just put this drive system in your current model lines and watch the money pour in. This technology could make us energy independent by 2015. Make it happen. Please.
I do wonder, however, how you protect the electric motors from road grit, water, and salt. Thanks.
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November 11th, 2007 at 9:57 pm
whats the capacity of the battery. i mean whats the max volt it will deliver.
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November 11th, 2007 at 10:04 pm
How quickly will the Volt really be available? My current car is reliable, but with high mileage, so waiting another two years is pushing it. I hear rumors that this car will not really be ready by 2010. Do you really think you’ll be ready by 2010?
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November 11th, 2007 at 10:09 pm
I need a car that can go 100 mi on battery and then have range extending capabilities. because my commute is 80 miles round trip. I understand that the EV1 could go 90 miles with old lead acid batteries. Why can’t the new batteries outperform those?
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November 11th, 2007 at 10:12 pm
What are you doing to make sure the nightly recharging is effortless, perhaps even automatic and not something that will keep people from buying the car?
I know it seems silly, but factors such as this have been obstacles to the adoption of good products before.
(There are more important questions, but they have already been asked.)
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November 11th, 2007 at 10:21 pm
After the Volt starts production …What would everyone on the panel like for a christmas present?
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November 11th, 2007 at 10:23 pm
For Frank, Tony, or Bob:
Will the ICE be HCCI? (constant RPMs for recharging, seems like this would be easy)
Are you thinking about certifying a diesel variant for use with commercial biodiesel (not homebrew)?
Although the fuel is not your responsibility, what can GM do to promote the availability of renewable domestic fuels, not just ethanol but butanol, etc? Of course, with the oil supply figures we have seen for 2015, I guess you could just leave this to the old “invisible hand” (LOL)
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November 11th, 2007 at 10:46 pm
Pardon the formatting, didn’t know how long we had to prepare the questions.
Volt questions:
Specs on GM-Volt say:
headroom 37.3
legroom 31.5
My 1988 Toronado, not a full sized car, in order to have enough headroom the seat had to be adjusted to lean back, not good for neck posture. The Toronado has comfortable legroom.
Headroom 37.8
Legroom 42.7
The 2008 prius has these specs and it’s not a big car and I can sit in it upright.
Headroom 39.1
legroom 41.9
The 2007 camry is a sleek car, it has more headroom and legroom than the Volt.
headroom 38.8
legroom 41.6
Please increase the drivers headroom at least an inch and legroom by 10 inches, if impractical to increase the exterior dimensions of the car then engineer the drivers seat to adjust down to the floor and all the way back to the rear seat. The owner/driver must sit in the car, the person that would sit behind the owner is just out of luck when the owner is 6′4”.
Will the roof have the problematic solar heat gaining, costly polycarbonate roof?
Will the electric motor be shielded to prevent/reduce electromagnetic exposure?
Will the car have advanced traction control? Should be easier now that the motor is electric.
Will the car have intelligent programming in the form of on board diagnostics and notifications accessible to the owner/driver?
Will the car have a limp home function where if the battery goes offline, the ICE/genset will start, to power the car home or to a repair facility?
Will the car present the user the choice of analog or digital display via graphics on LCD panels?
Will the car present a practical display of energy usage to help the driver take full advantage (by efficient driving techniques) of the proposed 40 mile electric range?
Will the car have a vehicle behavior option where economy or sporty driving can be selected and the car will do it’s best to conserve energy, slower acceleration, different behavior with the regenerative effect etc or the driver could leave the car in normal (sporty) mode and waste energy to their hearts content?
Will the car allow menu augmentation by allowing the owner to select what items should show on the display? This assumes there are additional diagnostic values such as battery temp, cell voltages, etc…
Will the car have an application programming interface (API) to allow some Open Source development so people can customize the intelligence/functionality of the car. Obviously modification of e-drive/battery system performance would be prevented.
Will the car support WiFi networking so music/appointments/reminders etc. can be auto downloaded when parked at home and connected to the local network? Can the car become part of the local network?
Will the car allow the user to have interior cooling/heating commence when several hundred feet from the car by pressing a key fob? If no keys like the Toyota’s system, then can it be scheduled to cool/heat at a specific time 5 days a week for a 5 minute period, e.g. 5:05pm to 5:10pm walk from work to the car and it’s already cooling/heating or at least tell the car upon arriving at the employers parking lot to wait so many hours minutes then cool/heat for 5 minutes?
To sum up:
Provide the core technology 40 miles electric, plugin, ICE backup …
For styling, dimension it for a very broad range of human physical requirements, then make it aerodynamic. GM has an existing inventory of sporty sleek cars ready for purchase. The people who say “keep the styling as is” are obviously ignoring some very real problems. We need a car with the Volt’s technology in a car design that a broad audience of people can fit in.
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November 11th, 2007 at 10:47 pm
GM keep working toward your E-Flex design. If batteries and price targets you set only take it 20 miles go with that. American drivers are ready to buy, start production.
Thanks for your work in this important area. If nothing else it will push others to try and beat it.
I drive an 05 Prius and get 50-85 mpg. Beat that and I will buy a GM !
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November 11th, 2007 at 10:50 pm
Sorry for the poor formatting, didn’t know how much time we had to prepare the questions.
Volt questions:
Specs on GM-Volt say:
headroom 37.3
legroom 31.5
My 1988 Toronado, not a full sized car, in order to have enough headroom the seat had to be adjusted to lean back, not good for neck posture. The Toronado has comfortable legroom.
Headroom 37.8
Legroom 42.7
The 2008 prius has these specs and it’s not a big car and I can sit in it upright.
Headroom 39.1
legroom 41.9
The 2007 camry is a sleek car, it has more headroom and legroom than the Volt.
headroom 38.8
legroom 41.6
Please increase the drivers headroom at least an inch and legroom by 10 inches, if impractical to increase the exterior dimensions of the car then engineer the drivers seat to adjust down to the floor and all the way back to the rear seat. The owner/driver must sit in the car, the person that would sit behind the owner is just out of luck when the owner is 6′4”.
Will the roof have the problematic solar heat gaining, costly polycarbonate roof?
Will the electric motor be shielded to prevent/reduce electromagnetic exposure?
Will the car have advanced traction control? Should be easier now that the motor is electric.
Will the car have intelligent programming in the form of on board diagnostics and notifications accessible to the owner/driver?
Will the car have a limp home function where if the battery goes offline, the ICE/genset will start, to power the car home or to a repair facility?
Will the car present the user the choice of analog or digital display via graphics on LCD panels?
Will the car present a practical display of energy usage to help the driver take full advantage (by efficient driving techniques) of the proposed 40 mile electric range?
Will the car have a vehicle behavior option where economy or sporty driving can be selected and the car will do it’s best to conserve energy, slower acceleration, different behavior with the regenerative effect etc or the driver could leave the car in normal (sporty) mode and waste energy to their hearts content?
Will the car allow menu augmentation by allowing the owner to select what items should show on the display? This assumes there are additional diagnostic values such as battery temp, cell voltages, etc…
Will the car have an application programming interface (API) to allow some Open Source development so people can customize the intelligence/functionality of the car. Obviously modification of e-drive/battery system performance would be prevented.
Will the car support WiFi networking so music/appointments/reminders etc. can be auto downloaded when parked at home and connected to the local network? Can the car become part of the local network?
Will the car allow the user to have interior cooling/heating commence when several hundred feet from the car by pressing a key fob? If no keys like the Toyota’s system, then can it be scheduled to cool/heat at a specific time 5 days a week for a 5 minute period, e.g. 5:05pm to 5:10pm walk from work to the car and it’s already cooling/heating or at least tell the car upon arriving at the employers parking lot to wait so many hours minutes then cool/heat for 5 minutes?
To sum up:
Provide the core technology 40 miles electric, plugin, ICE backup …
For styling, dimension it for a very broad range of human physical requirements, then make it aerodynamic. GM has an existing inventory of sporty sleek cars ready for purchase. The people who say “keep the styling as is” are obviously ignoring some very real problems. We need a car with the Volt’s technology in a car design that a broad audience of people can fit in.
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November 11th, 2007 at 10:52 pm
In the current protype there are only a total of four seats ( 2 front and 2 back). Will the final vehicle have only four seats as well? I really think it should be like a normal car and allow for three people to sit in the back. (I dont like the way the two seats in the back are setup although with a family of 5 I can’t get this car if there are only four seats and I really want this car. Therefore can you please consider have a bench seat in the back that seats three. Thanks.
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November 11th, 2007 at 11:12 pm
I have two questions.
1.) How much will the “prototype” weigh?
2.) why did you sell the battery patent to Chevron??????????????
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November 11th, 2007 at 11:17 pm
I have three questions.
1.) How much will the “prototype” weigh?
2.) why did you sell the battery patent to Chevron??????????????
3.) Why are you suing the state of California for wanting to raise CAFE standards when you sell yourself as “Gas-friendly to gas-free”??????
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November 11th, 2007 at 11:18 pm
Tony Posawatz & Bob Boniface;
Two questions:
1)Will you be incorporating a solar panel to trickle charge the batteries while the Volt sits in parking lots across America while people work?
2) Will you be making the interior a bit more posh and comfortable. For $25-30,000 the seats and interior finish of the prototype looked like a $5,000 car. I couldn’t imagine sitting in what looks like cafeteria style chairs.
PS. I did a PowerPoint show for 200+ students on cutting edge technologies and the Volt was the hands down favorite of all the students. Most wanted one as soon as it comes out. When I showed them a photo of the Honda fuel cell vehicle the students hated it’s looks hands down. Said it looked like an insect but the Volt was handsome, sporty and everyone wanted it just the way it looks including myself!
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November 11th, 2007 at 11:19 pm
Hi, Chevy Volt Team -
Like may others, I am very enthusiastic about the Volt, and anxious to see it in production, in the showroom, and hopefully, in my driveway ASAP. Here are my questions:
1. Extreme weather conditions – How much will battery power be compromised by cold weather?
2. Any plan to offer a Volt through another GM division – such as re-introducing the Saturn Ion as an electric hybrid? Just a thought.
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November 11th, 2007 at 11:19 pm
will the performance of the ICE will be modified if the fuel was E85 instead (octane 110 support)?
Will the car have outlets, so that we can run microwaves or any nifty utilities if a blackout occurs or if I’m camping? Toyota’s Estima Hybrid in Japan has A/C plugs for up to 1200 watts! with a 16 kilowatt hour battery, the limitations of the cigarette 120 watts max generation should be over!
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November 11th, 2007 at 11:38 pm
1. Why wont there be flexible solar panels on the roof, hood… to gain maximum recharge exposure especially when you park and cant plug the car in?
http://www.greencarcongress.com/2005/12/flexible_roofto.html
2. Denise Gray: Will the owner of the vehicle be able to easily swap out the battery packs with newer, more efficient and better designed battery technology when they become availiable?
http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/0315/p14s01-stct.html?page=3
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November 11th, 2007 at 11:52 pm
Why should we get our hopes up this time? After all GM had an electric car (the EV 1) and decided to sell Hummers instead, see “Who Killed The Electric Car” narrated by Martin Sheen and also had Ed Begley Jr and Ralph Nader. Like one of the other questions asked, the battery technology out now would run the car for 10 maybe 20 miles or more. Let’s go!! We’re running out of TIME…2010 is not acceptable!! Release the car NOW with what you have and offer upgrades along the way!!
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November 11th, 2007 at 11:55 pm
[quote comment="14205"]GM keep working toward your E-Flex design. If batteries and price targets you set only take it 20 miles go with that. American drivers are ready to buy, start production.
Thanks for your work in this important area. If nothing else it will push others to try and beat it.
I drive an 05 Prius and get 50-85 mpg. Beat that and I will buy a GM ![/quote]
I will personally mail you a check for $100 if you can prove that you can get 85 mpg from a Prius (on level ground).
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November 11th, 2007 at 11:55 pm
1) when can i lease one? is there a list of people wantig one being gathered by gm?
2) is 4 wheel drive possible?
we get snow and i live on a hill.
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:06 am
Well, quite a mixed bag. Some downright
insulting questions that I would toss on the garbage dump. Some silly ideas that getting rid of that horrible EV-1 was actually a mistake (the Times recently named the EV-1 as one of the worst 50 cars of all time). I would characterize the EV-1 as an idea whose validity died when the specs of the NiMH batteries became known. I NEVER, EVER understood why GM put that obviously too expensive, too impotent, too inconvenient, too slow and too ugly piece of crap before the public.
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:24 am
how about cutting out the dealer and selling direct? no need for either of us to pay a middle man.
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:31 am
the entire roof panel should be a solar collector. then you would need less plug in time and expense. John
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:39 am
Can you put together a “soft order” list where people can sign up to express serious interest in buying one of these things?
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:40 am
1. The roof looks cool, but can I put snowboards, or surfboards on it with the use of a rack?
2. I am aware of the Opal Flexstream, and like the looks of that car more than the volt. If I bought the Flexstream could I own it and drive it in the US without much hassle for parts or for servicing?
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:59 am
Some of these questions have already been asked, I’m asking them again to cast my vote for their inclusion in the final list of questions.
1. If 220V charging is not going to be a standard option, would you consider making it an add on option? If not, would you consider designing the Volt so it could be an aftermarket add on?
2. I understand E85 fuel may not be a wise choice for the Volt, but would you make it capable of using it anyhow, even if you don’t label the Volt as E85 capable? Such as using the correct fuel lines? I ask this because I am worried that in 5 years breakthroughs in ethanol production may occur and I’ll be stuck with a vehicle that can’t utilize E85.
3. Would you consider making the Volt modifiable for us gear heads who wish to invalidate the warranty, so we could power a vacation home that is off-grid with the Volt’s generator? If not, please consider this idea for any future hybrid pickup trucks.
4. (Armondo said) The Opel version of the car is far more appealing (much better looking) than the American version. Will it be available in the US?
5. Will it have regenerative breaking?
6a. I assume you consider yourself an America first, and an auto industry executive second. When you speak to members of our government such as congress and the senate, do you ever mention to them the (obvious) strategic advantage for America, Japan, China, Europe, India, etc, to decrease demand for oil and thus help make Iran go bankrupt so they can’t build nuclear weapons and fund Hezbollah?
6b. Have you considered the impact of a minimum gas and diesel price to help accomplish #6A?
7. Will the Volt utilize onboard GPS to figure out it should try to run the battery for an extra 5 miles since I’m ‘almost home’?
8. Will it monitor how long its been since the gas cap was removed, and force the generator on to use up the fuel before the fuel goes bad?
9. The Volt will appeal to a certain demographic and in my opinion that demographic would love to tinker with things, including the onboard computer. Have you considered separation of the computer system design so non-vital functions such as the radio, navigation, alarm, etc, can be modifiable even if not officially supported by GM and would invalidate its warranty?
10. Have you considered starting a waiting list which requires a $1000 deposit which basically just sits in a money market account and earns interest, refundable at GM’s option, transferable by the customer (except no interest earned if this option is chosen) and requires an in depth survey by the customer? This would provide GM with market research and provide potential customers with a guarantee of getting the first Volts available should an energy crisis (war with Iran) occur during the time frame the Volt is released.
http://www.oiljihad.org – Death to oil
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:00 am
Long overdue. As a retired veteran, this is an issue of national sustainment. My 20 year Air Force career was spent focused directly on Middle-East oil. As a nation, we could have given 3 cents on the dollar of what we spent there to the auto industry to develop an Electric engine capable of running on the nation’s grid.
To me, the importance of the concept behind the VOLT is American-made (American wages), American-driven, American fueled (stop sending petro dollars there, to send terrorism back here).
Please build this car.
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:07 am
Why did GM kill the electric car on the first go-round? Why will it succeed this time?
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:07 am
Oh, and Lyle, CONGRATULATIONS on your success with this website. You have unprecedented access to GM because of the quality of your work and the effort you have put in it. May Allah bless you for your contribution to humanity.
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:07 am
Hi,
Any plans for a wireless floor recharger like Mitsubishi is talking about for their all electric vehicle?
Thanks,
Geoff
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:12 am
Question 1: Will it have a SMALL solar panel to power a fan during hot weather to suck hot air out of the car as well as provide a trickle charge solely to lengthen the battery life during cold weather?
Question 2: Will it have iPhone/iPod integration (not generic MP3 player support)? If yes, will it have a voice command system like the Ford Fusion’s Sync system?
Question 3: Will I be able to attach it to my WiFi network to pull diagnostic info and software updates for the car with my computer. If yes, will the computer software have Mac and Linux support?
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:13 am
For Denise Gray,
It always seems that the perfect technology comes along and then we find out later that the new technology is worse than the old. With that in mind, can you discuss the sources of battery ingredients, their abundance, international competition for them (e.g. are we likely to get into wars to protect the free flow of lithium?) And what about desposal of dead batteries? Will they be a major source of pollution? Can they be recycled easily? Do they blow up if punctured? Can you think of any other potential environmental or geopolitical problems down the road that leads to the universal use of electric vehicles?
For Bob Boniface:
Are there alternative body styles in the works, or will an old guy like me be forced to buy a scaled-up Hot-Wheels car? I want something that looks practical and can be used to bring home an occasional 2×4 from the lumber store.
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:28 am
Hi,
I have heard that the macho wheels and tires will be downsized, in my opinion that will be a mistake!
In the mean time I have placed my order with my local Chev. dealer and he told me I was number two on his list.
I want to make sure I can get one on the first year, being 68 years old I don’t want to miss this great attempt by GM.
Go for it GM!
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November 12th, 2007 at 2:20 am
William is right, Im one of those old guys too.
I need to be able to lay a 4x 2 from the dash out through the boot.
My Peugeot 406HDI does it so it must be possible. Just be careful of the leather seats.
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:00 am
Just what part of the Volt seems to be the hang up that they can’t have them on the market next year??? Have they been in SUV and PU mode so long with little changes except huge discounts to sell them that they loss all their technology. If it’s the batteries then Lyle should have a meeting with Chevron.
What a surprise the oil companys should control this. May be not ready to give up the billions they make each quarter. Thanks Lyle for keeping this going. Can only hope it will help.
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:07 am
Congratulations Lyle,
I have another question/suggestion I don’t think it has been asked since now :
It would be reassuring the driver if he may start the generator by himself, that is if the automatic kick-in fails, the driver must be able to start the ICE, or the fuel cell, or … by himself.
Thanks for all the work.
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November 12th, 2007 at 4:29 am
No doubt the public is ready to buy and use the Volt as early as yesterday! Since the demand for the Volt will be extremely high I suggest a Lottery to Purchase a new Volt from pre-approved customers as a way of keeping the supply problem fair to everyone.
Let’s face it we all want it but we all won’t get one. Thanks Lyle, Best of Luck to You!
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November 12th, 2007 at 5:16 am
I would like to know the following:
on a well to wheel (W2W) basis, how this car shapes up to oil derived fuels, particularly when the electricity is derived from existing coal fired power stations.
whether your numbers are aligned to that of EPRI’s.
whether GM is working with government to drive plug in hybrids rather than pushing coal to liquids as a means of addressing energy security issues.
have you done calculations to determine how uptake will affect the power demand
Thanks
Stuart
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November 12th, 2007 at 6:44 am
Why are you diverting resources to a fuel cell version of your E-flex vehicles when your company’s survival is on the line, hydrogen is not an energy efficient fuel source and a cost effective implementation, if it ever comes, is still decades away? Wouldn’t it be better to apply these precious development resources to the Volt?
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November 12th, 2007 at 6:46 am
Please explain the proportions of the car: why the engine, battery and car weight are what they are.
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November 12th, 2007 at 7:33 am
I think these are all valid questions and wait anxiously for the response. I have been a loyal GM Buyer/owner for the past 20 Years. I hope that GM beats Honda and Toyota to the market place. If not I plan to go with the company that best supports my wallet, the environment and my life style. Today that looks like the Volt. The market place is ready, is GM? Time is not on your side, even your ardent supporters like me are getting ready to move to the Imports.
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November 12th, 2007 at 7:38 am
Tony
I would like to know what nitch market gm is attempting to nail down. We need a vehicle that will fill between the hundreds golf carts now used the smallest vehicle chevy now offers. All the bells and whistles are not needed with 24 to 35 miles round trip to town our normal use current ac does not cool the cabin in that time.
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:06 am
Lyle,
My question is to Bob Lutz. Bob, you worked your magic on the Solstice and brought it to market in record time and at an affordable price. The SSR was priced to high and common people couldn’t afford it. Would it be possible to get the Volt to market in 2009 and priced at 25,000 or less? We want this car. CW
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:23 am
Hello,
What size engine will be used for the generator? Will the engine run at a constant RPM to charge the batteries, then cut out after the batteries reach a specified charge?
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:52 am
My Question:
Will GM be offering the Volt around the World? Europe and South Africa perhaps?
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:53 am
1. It would seem that sending power from the motor generator directly to the motivating motor with excess going into the battery could be a way to increase the life expectancy of the battery. Would this be too complicated or has it somehow been determined that the life cycle increase isn’t worth the added complexity?
2. How soon will there be a performace version of the vehicle available, and is this something that could be programable so that we could switch between improved energy efficiency and improved performance?
3. Is front wheel drive the only likely choice or will all wheel drive be available?
4. Will the electric only range be somewhat driver selectable to allow for somewhat extended range for those of us that have a longer daily commute; e.g., to perhaps allow the batteries to go down to 20-25% charge state before the motor kicks in?
5. Will the vehicle optionally be available so that we could use the vehicle as an emergency backup power system in case of a power outage?
6. Will GM be able to restrict the tendency of dealers to pad the purchase price with additional dealer markup?
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:54 am
Will GM be offering the Volt worlwide? If so what countries?
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:57 am
If you really want the vehicle to be efficient and be flexible with many fuels, why are you avoiding the Stirling engine? The ICE was designed to make money, it requires lots of maintenance and it breaks down often. Diesel is cleaner for the environment but I hate the smoke and it stinks. The hydrogen fuel cell is not efficient and a big waste of money. The Stirling engine beats them all on every possible issue except for the slow startup. But who cares if the generator needs time to start on an electric car? Just adjust the startup time in relation to the low battery level.
Kagato
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:59 am
1)Why is GM running away from the term “Hybrid” with the Volt? It’s taken years to get the term into the common vernaculum and the technology is widely accepted thanks to the success of the Prius and other vehicles. Yet GM is actively seeking terms other than Hybrid to describe the Volt which is, by definition, a plug-in series hybrid. I feel this is a monumental marketing error to take this stance.
2)The hydrogen fuel cell Volt seems to be getting pushed heavily. I’ve seen a huge ad with a 3 page fold-out image of the Volt complete with HFC “range extender”. Again it seems clear that this technology will not be available, at a realistic price, any time in the near term. Why push that sort of ‘pie in the sky’ concept instead of how you plan to keep the ICE version emissions low?
3)How does GM plan to overcome the loss of maintenence revenue since the Volt will be relatively low maintenence compared to a conventional vehicle?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:03 am
Will the plug-in charging port also allow electric power to flow back toward the grid? In other words, will the Volt support Vehicle To Grid (V2G) applications?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:05 am
Will there be a 4 door version planned?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:05 am
4) I think the current design is a mistake, but would like to hear the reasoning. Why not make aerodynamics/low Cd a priority to facilitate extra EV range, particularly at high speed. The aggressive design seems to go against the overall ‘green’ concept of the vehicle.
5)Why the hesitance to state whether the car will be a 4 or 5 seater? FWIW I really need it to be a 5 seater or will be excluded as a purchase option for my family…I’m sure for many other families as well.
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:20 am
As the vehicle is moving, stopping and turning corners in city driving, could not a kinetic charging system be incorporated to further the range in the electric mode?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:21 am
To all GM Management
I am in the research field and would like to know what you guys are thinking when a release date is 3 years away. You guys already have a product. You could start building the Volt in a month from now. Why are you waiting????????
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:29 am
Being able to use the Volt as a back-up home generator would be a big plus. With all the major storm outages, and are growing dependence on electricity, it would be a very strong marketing point, especially if a fuelcell is invovled, because of their quiet and clean performance, any chance of this occuring??
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:35 am
From 1975 to 2001, I have been burned (i.e. poor reliability) by both new and used American manufactured cars(Ford, GM, and Chrysler). Three of the new vehicles were made by divisions of GM(Chevy, Buick, and Saturn). Now, you are leading the American auto industry with this revolutionary new paradym in transporation with Chevy Volt. My concern is that early adopter will be “burned” again by the American automotive industry rather than being very reliable like their Japanese counterparts. Therefore, will you offer such guareentees as 100,000 mile power train warranty or just using FUD to get buyers to purchase additional coverage?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:41 am
1. Would any significant increase in daily range be achievable by connecting a vehicle roof sized solar panel through a charging module to boost the battery while the vehicle is parked for 4 to 9 hours?
2. Could the battery be offered as a user changeable assembly to allow a fully charged battery to be swapped into the car to allow evening use after daytime discharge?
3. What range and speed performance is expected with the battery discharged using primarily engine power?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:44 am
Contrary to Toyota’s belief that the Volt will be a failure, I believe that this vehicle will be a tremendous success. I think it is unfortunate that this car will not go into production until 2010 or 2011. Is there any possibility that the production date can be moved up? This vehicle blows away the timidly styled Prius and I can’t wait to see the consumer reaction when this is released.
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:44 am
From 1975 to 2001, I have been “burned” by poor reliability in my purchases of both new and used American manufactured cars(i.e. Ford, GM, and Chrysler). Three of the new vehicles were made by divisions of GM(Chevy, Buick, and Saturn). Now, you are leading the American auto industry with this revolutionary new paradym in transporation with the Chevy Volt.
My concern is that early adopters will be “burned” once again by the quality of American automotive industry. (I have switched to your Japanese counterparts with excellent results).
Therefore, what will you do to assure the customer that this new technology will be more reliable than the products based on 100plus years of development?
Will you offer a 100,000 mile (or better) power train warranty?
Or just using FUD to get buyers to purchase additional coverage?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:49 am
why has this taken so long to develop?
what about winter operation?
I own two chev products, I will not replace either until mileage is improved to at least the 50 plus miles per gal
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:52 am
WILL YOU BE OFFERING A PICKUP TRUCK THE SIZE OF THE S-10 THAT IS ELECTRIC?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:59 am
To Tony Posawatz:
1 – I live in condominium , will there an addon so I could use a solar that could hook up to the car to charge to the battery?
2 – Will there be a safty issue like unable to start the car when the plug is still in the car?
3 – I’m an info geek, I would like to see a displays of info like battery loads, car load, AC or heater load, elctric per miles, gas useage, show electric useage in motor, Motor RMP, how much gas left, ect…
Try to encouragement many team that work with the volt to join the gm-volt.com .
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:01 am
Who knows how expensive gas will be by the time the Volt is available. My fear is that demand will be so high there will be a premium on the Volt. I suggest you pre sell the volt to those of us who believe in what you are doing so that we will be assured of delivery at a reasonable price. A $500 – $1000 deposit, first come, first served would be a fair arrangment. It would help defray development costs and give us all a fair chance to get the first Volts.
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:03 am
For all the work that Lyle has done to promote this car, will you give him one of the first ones, and for free?
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:23 am
One request, please. Although I am sure this is not good for business.
Since a computer will be running the car, any programming upgrades should be accessible to Volt owners without having to buy the newest version. Unless of course significant hardware changes have been added.
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:24 am
I’ve seen a few questions regarding availability in markets outside the US, so I’d like second those:
Frank Weber:
Into which markets and when are you looking to introduce the Volt or other E-Flex based cars? Specifically Canada & Europe.
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:25 am
One request, please. Although I am sure this is not good for business.
Since a computer will be running the car, any programming upgrades should be accessible to Volt owners without having to buy the newest version. Unless of course significant hardware changes have been added.
Sent from my iPhone
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:26 am
Everyone seems to have covered the performance questions I had. So I’m going to ask, is the interior going to be improved? More luxury options? Comfortable seats, etc?
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:32 am
I know GM can do the Volt and do it well – I have a ‘03 Silverado an an 06 Corvette with an 08 on order – so I know about GM’s engineering skill. In fact, as vote of confidence, I tried to give my local dealer a deposit on a Volt, but he said there was no way to do that at this time.
My comment is this: don’t forget that a large portion of this country lives where winters can be long and cold. Having good snow traction is crucial (something I’ve heard Prius owners complain about) and a good heating system is a must, too.
Go GM. Do this and you’ll re-establish the company as world leader in technology AND sell quite a few Volts in the process.
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:35 am
Denise and Tony. With all the technical knowledge available today. Why can’t a system be developed for the batteries to charge themselves at a predetermined voltage drop via an onboard generator?
Couldn’t this be properly geared to deliver the needed voltage to recharge while in motion? Much like a car now with an alternator and voltage regulator.
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:48 am
Suggestion on the battery issue:
Past whatever warrantee you are planning on issuing, how about an optional extended warrantee. One that would allow for owners to feel that they are not ‘out on a limb’ when purchasing very new technology, but reasonably covering the true cost of ownership.
Possibly a 100K mile coverage that does ’stem to stern’ maintenance, for non-crash incidents.
This would allow a consumer to figure what the real cost per mile is for the 100K miles before purchasing a car. For my household we drive about 10K miles per year per vehicle, so this would need to be a 10 to 12 year or 100K miles (whichever comes first) coverage.
And yes, it should be transferable. I would expect that GM would take the ‘premium’ and to invest it so as to cover their costs (plus some reasonable profit) for the 10/12 years) this ‘insurance policy’ is in force.
No, I don’t want a 3rd party insurance to cover it. I want a GM coverage. Where I pull into a dealer, they check the VIN and know it is covered and on my ticket when I check out it says $0 on the receipt, with a notice that it runs out on xxx date, or at milage yyyyyy, whichever comes first, just as a reminder.
Also, put in a rider that we MUST bring it in every 3 to 9 months for a ‘check up’ to keep the policy in force, and send us post cars and email as reminders.
This would be good even on non-E-cars.
No, I don’t lease cars.
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:57 am
I want to use my GMcard points on a Volt. Some points expiring now – dirty deal. Wish GM could save these points for me and let me apply them to a future purchase of a Volt. Have 105k on my 99 Astro & I need a Volt now. Willing to drive a prototype also. Roanoke VA area. Help.
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:57 am
I agree with the comments posted here. When will GM’s Volt be available for purchase. Is this a case of; I’ll be buying a Honda or Toyota because there is no GM option available. Then you’ll be asking why I don’t buy GM products. Sell what the consumer wants makes for good business. Oh ya how much did you lose this quarter.
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:58 am
Since the Tesla Roadster can run 245 miles a single charge, why does the GM Volt only run 40 miles? Would the GM Volt do better if you ripped out all the gas engine generator rubbish?
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:02 am
I really think GM should offer 2 versions of the volt. One with a gass engine one with no gass engine.
Since the volt is all electric and the people out there keep calling it a Hybird, which it is not.
Thus make a full electic it would be very simple and make the car lighter. A lot of CA folks who just need a car to go back and forth to work or the market might not need the gas engine and then save cost?
This way the stupid folks who keep calling it a hybrid would have to shut up!
My two cents worth.
Give folks options then it reaches more of a target audience.
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:10 am
This comment is directed to Denise Gray.
I have submitted my idea using GM’s idea submission form but have the feeling that it may not have been reviewed by the proper engineer for the VOLT design. This is essentially a shameless plug for my patent idea.
My US patent 6586909 uses a concept where the cell with the lowest state of charge receives the largest share of charging current and also limits the maximum possible voltage the each cell may see during a charge cycle. Charging is directed to each cell through a common magnetic manifold thereby linking each cell to all others. This concept was critical to avoid overcharging or overvoltage on some chemical cells.
I would also like to see the VOLT have plug-in ability to power largely from the power grid for most small commutes to the workplace to essentially reduce dependence on oil based fuels.
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:12 am
I understand how the air conditioning will work with the volt, but what type of heating system will it use. Is Chevrolet going to use the battery stack as a heat source or a system like Ford tried to develop (ROVAC) where the air was compressed thus creating the heated air for heating?
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:30 am
This question is directed at Tony Posawatz: What are the testing challenges during the manufacture of the Volt that will require a different approach than other vehicles?
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:30 am
I hope you’ll encourage them to offer a diesel engine asap.
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:40 am
I love this car’s looks from the side and the rear…but the front I believe is reminiscent of the Aztek…ugly! Is the body style etched in stone or will there be modifications?
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:43 am
As have so many above, I too would like to put down a deposit on a Volt. I have spoken to my dealer as well, and they too say that there is no way to do so yet.
Do not worry too much about 0-60 times. This is about fuel economy, not acceleration.
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:43 am
I love this car’s looks from the side and the rear…but the front I believe is reminiscent of the Aztek…ugly! It’s too bad it can’t resemble more like a Firebird, Camaro or Corvette from the front. Is the body style etched in stone or will there be modifications?
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:46 am
How can I put down a deposit on a Volt?
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:57 am
My only question is – when can I get one?
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:57 am
Tony Posawatz:
1) Which advanced engine designs has GM investigated for the range-extender other than the standard Internal Combustion Piston Engine and which appear to be the most promising?
2) Is GM working on or considering V2G and using E-Flex as emergency home back-up power?
3) Is GM considering wheel motors and All Wheel Drive?
4) Have you looked into programmable HVAC so drivers can pre-condition the cabin prior to taking a drive?
5) Please don’t place the windshield fluid tube in the wiper. It freezes!
6) Quality, quality, quality!
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:12 pm
I was fortunate enough to be able to lease an EV1 for 5 years. It met my driving needs for 95% of my driving. I was devastated when GM took them away. I vowed to never purchase another GM vehicle. Is this car really going to be produced in the near future? If so, my confidence in GM will be renewed.
I recently read that the Volt may be sold as a Cadillac because of its presumed high cost. This car needs to be an affordable car for the general public for it to be a successful car.
This is another “I’ll believe it when I see it” in the promised EV production I have read about in the past few years. This is a car that I have dreamed of. Is it for real??
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:18 pm
Dear Chevy Volt Leadership Team,
I read that you’re making the Volt car so it can go up to 150 miles per hour. Why? I don’t need a car that can go 150 miles per hour. All I need is a car that can go up to no more than around 90 mph which is 5 mph above the maximum speed allowable in the U.S. It’s seems to me having a big electric motor that can go 150 mph would increase the weight unnecessarily. Plus a smaller motor would cost less and reduce the cost to me, the consumer. Perhaps a compromise of say a max speed of 110 mph would be more than enough. I hear that 110 mph is the maximum most gasoline cars can go.
Thanks,
Jeff
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:22 pm
Will the Volt have a CV transmission?
Any ideas yet about the make/manufacturer of the engine and transmission?
Roughly how many Amps will the charging cycle demand from my AC wall receptacle?
I drive my cars until they nearly reach 200,000 miles. I hope the Volt is designed with similar durability. My current Chevy has 156,000 trouble free miles on it. If I can time this correctly, the Volt will come out when my Chevy is due for a replacement out.
Good luck!
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November 12th, 2007 at 12:57 pm
You guys need to look for after-market solar panel products. GM is not going to waste time and money on something that is too expensive and give very little return that a solar panel would do.
Just be patient, let them introduce the car, and some company will produce after-market items.
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:18 pm
It is a given that the market would be somewhat skeptical with the introduction of new technology. Perhaps you could elay fears by standardizing the battery componants and offering an upgrade as technology changes. This way the “Wait and see” individuals would have no excuse but to invest. Take that Toyota.
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:23 pm
I am an educator in California and was part of the PrEView drive program with the Impact (I never saw this name as negatively as most others did).
Will GM offer the same type of program to “local area opinion leaders” to help generate informed opinions, directed questions, and positive press for your series hybrids?
My students would love to be part of any future demonstration. We have had the EV-1, City El, Honda EV+, Honda Civic GX (CNG), Toyota Prius, and Ford FCEV demonstrated for my students over the years to assist them in their alternative fuel research projects.
Thank you for considering my request and expanding an educational program to include schools (the future drivers!).
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:36 pm
I hope that this time GM will not let the japanese and koreans outflank them again with solar and kinetic chargers on their plug-in, which will probably look better, run further and be out a year sooner than GM’s.
If the past is any indication, the canNOT doers will prevail at GM. Whatever happened to the can-do types who conceived, designed, produced and flew the best fighter plane of WW2 in less than 120 days? Other than refinement of the lithium battery system, the replacement of which should be a simple and owner friendly procedure, the technology is here. Why TWO YEARS? Job security for engineers? Somebody needs to kick butt at GM.
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:54 pm
The serial hybrid platform could enable (and hopefully will enable) a very different vehicle industry with some similarities to the computer industry. This would allow highly customized vehicles for niche markets. In order to participate in this
1) Have you considered an “Open”, or even better, industry standard power bus and bus controller system, similar to such standards in the computer industry (e.g. PCI or USB). This would make customized after-market add-ons, such as many of those asked for in this forum (e.g. solar panels or wireless chargers) much easier to implement.
2) Have you considered selling a “motherboard” (ala Intel, Asus, etc), which would include all or most of the mechanical and safety components, but nothing plugged into the power bus. This would allow a second tier of companies to then plug in whatever combination of battery/genset/etc components they desired. GM could of course also participate in selling components such as the genset. This would significantly increase the market reach by allowing affordable customizations such as: more or all batteries, super-performance (ala Tesla), smaller genset/bigger battery pack etc.
GM could be a leader in setting standards for a transformed vehicle industry.
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:57 pm
Hrm, not alot of questions left to ask, so here is a couple for Bob:
1.) Have you considered getting a tattoo that says, “I can’t tell you the date this car is released or the exact price and No, I won’t take your 500 bucks.”
2.) Do you ever wonder how people can ask such ridiculous question without thinking about what the cost implications are.
3.) If Peter Jackson was rereleasing the Lord of the Rings and offered to have all the characters in Lord of the Rings ride in Chevy Volts instead of on horses for $10 million dollars…would you do it?
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November 12th, 2007 at 1:58 pm
Was the massively favorable reaction to the volt concept a suprise? How did this affect the internal support for the concept early on. How much of the this reaction to the volt do you attribute to the looks of the car vs the drivetrain idea?
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November 12th, 2007 at 2:02 pm
Given the advancement of the battery technology shown by A123 and CPI, EV1 with these batteries will be fantastic. Any chance of bringing back EV1 with advanced batteries?
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November 12th, 2007 at 2:05 pm
Several people have already suggested this, but it would be a great idea to incorporate solar panels on the actual Chevy Volt to recharge the car while it is parked so it can recharge even without recharge stations. It’s way more environmentally-friendly and cheaper since vendors would not need to manufacture tons of recharge stations.
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November 12th, 2007 at 2:08 pm
Wow thats a lot of questions lyle you are going to have a long interview. Buckle Up!!!
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November 12th, 2007 at 2:11 pm
Several other people already mentioned it and I agree that incorporating solar panels on the Chevy Volt itself would be a great idea because recharge stations are not always available (in fact, they are rarely available). It is also more environmentally-friendly and affordable since we would not need to build recharge stations everywhere.
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November 12th, 2007 at 2:16 pm
Wow, I have never seen so many redundant and worthless questions!
Mr. Lutz – After testing the pack in the Malibu “mules” would the next steps be certifying the new body design, roadworthiness and crash testing?
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November 12th, 2007 at 2:27 pm
Bloggers have said that solar panels mounted on the car would not have the capacity to contribute a very large percentage of the electricity required.
Even so, I think that the psychological and symbolic impacts would be wonderful. I would 1000 times rather have solar panels, even if they only made a token contribution, than a sun roof (no way) or a “glass” (acrylic?) roof panel (also no way) which seems to have been part of some design presentation or presentations along the way.
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November 12th, 2007 at 2:34 pm
Why aren’t super capacitors being mentioned as a viable option? It seems like I hear a lot of rumors about some being put in production already and they would be a lot more practacle than any battery.
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November 12th, 2007 at 2:46 pm
In the FAQ you say that the Volt is not yet in production because GM still needs more time to develop the battery technology. Does that mean that the 50mph engine capacity is already developed? If so, why isn’t being put into your current vehicles?
Also, since the battery technology so the same as the kind used in computers, will GM be contracting with computer manufacturers to share the improved technology?
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:00 pm
I have heard the comments that if you drive short distances all the time, you will not use the small gas generator. What if you supplemented using the generator when you use the heat in winter and a/c in summer.
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:09 pm
For a motor home owner:
1. What is the expected curb wieght?
2. Will it flat tow – this is with all 4 wheels on the ground behind an RV at speed for long ranges.
3. Can the regenrtive brakes be enganged (manually and remotely) during tow to slow the both RV and tow car and charge the battery.
4. Can power be taken from the Volt’s battery into the RV for power during dry camping?
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:17 pm
will the volt have all weather capability ,such as all wheel drive???a must have in the northeast.
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:25 pm
I have a 04 Prius: 50mpg, AC on, 4 people, 6′4″ son in rear seat, full of camping gear, 75mph all day long, very low emissions!
Wanted to buy a US car but couldn’t.
Coming from Michigan this is a matter of life and death to us here.
Lead, follow or get out of the way.
We would buy a gas backup, 4-5 pass. Volt if it is built and runs well (period).
Pluged into the house for backup and grid backup is coming may as well be in the Volt.
Maybe Bob L. should stop his daily commute in a helicopter, flying over Ann Arbor, and see the road the way the rest of us do.
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:27 pm
Where will the Volt be offered first? California got the last E-car, how about nationwide including Alabama?
Johnnie
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:29 pm
Lyle,
It might be nice if a final list of questions was created from those given here and then allow the members to rank them in terms of priorty. Perhaps that way what is most important to most of us gets addressed first.
If you need any help just yell. I would gladly donate some time.
Dwayne
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:41 pm
1) Are you planning an AWD version of the Volt? If not, will you have any other features to help poor weather traction (and will you allow tire chains)?
2) Do you have any plans to provide at least 15A of 120V power supplied by the battery and range extender?
Some background on at least one potential owner:
My current car is a Subaru Outback with just over 100,000 miles and I’m used to getting 23-27 MPG.
My next car needs to get 35+, and I’d really like to get AWD again. If I can buy an AWD Volt getting even close to the cost equivalent of 166 miles/gal, you can almost guarantee that I’ll order one given everything else I’ve heard (I hope the legroom questions don’t end up being an issue).
If you allow me to use the onboard generator and provide traction control and enough wheel clearance for chains, that might be close enough for me. I really want a Volt.
Your competition is the Passat 4Motion TDI, and it seems that Diesel and AWD are each getting more prevalent. Gas hybrids interest me, but many barely beat my Subaru for economy and few have AWD.
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:49 pm
To Bob, Frank or Tony…
The GM Hy-wire and Sequel concepts were built on a revolutionary skate-board chassis with drive-by-wire technology.
Are any of the technological solutions used in creating those concepts being applied to the new line of E-Flex vehicles?
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November 12th, 2007 at 3:57 pm
Denise Gray;
Can you incorporate solar panels onto the vehicle to help with the charging of the batteries?
Some trade off would be if the panels are fitted nicely on hood, roof, and trunk these areas whould not require the finish paint job. Any small amount of charge generated for free is always worth it. When better panels become available to make more charge just upgrade the panels.
This would be no charging electric cost in addition to pluging the car in, this could be done. Can you add this to the design?
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November 12th, 2007 at 4:30 pm
1) Will the batteries perform well and last for years in cold-weather climates, or is the Volt a warm-weather climate option only?
2) Will the Volt be available in Canada in 2010? If not, what would be a reasonable delay to expect before they become available for sale in Canada?
3) Given that the first batteries have been delivered, could you disclose roughly what their cost to the consumer will be?
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November 12th, 2007 at 4:36 pm
One comment and one question, not sure who they should be addressed to:
Comment: although I understand that you are trying to keep the price point down which is a wonderful idea, give those of us with the wherewithal to add upgraded options for comfort, etc. and the option to (buy) not lease the battery, if that is a direction you are going in.
Question/Concern: I currently drive a Highlander Hybrid Limited and think your concept is great and highly likely bring me back to buying GM. Given that, I (and am sure many others)will have safety concerns with a substantially higher level of electricity being generated and utilitzed to propel this vehicle. GM should be prepared to actively promote the safety of the system as part of it’s marketing;
1) You won’t be electrocuted in the event of an accident, and
2) How much and how safe is any electromagnetic fields generated while riding in the vehicle for extended trips (which ultimately is still all driven by electricity at the end of the day).
Personally, I believe I would love to have this vehicle (and an all wheel drive version also), but I will not sacrifice my (or my families) safety and I will only compromise so much on the creature comforts and conveniences. Again, don’t make them standard, just give me the option to pay for them.
Thanks and best wishes to GM.
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November 12th, 2007 at 4:42 pm
Question 1: Has GM discussed the development of the Volt, in regards to charging, with Austin Energy-led Plug-in Partners in relation to their “50 cities program” that is pushing for plug-in hybrids and range-extending electric vehicles? Also, is V2G being evaluated for actual product integration, if only as a backup generator during blackouts, or is it only an afterthought in the development?
Question 2: Has the possibility of using CNG, like in a Civic GX, also been evaluated as an alternative fuel for the Volt? Or has been decided that it will only be available as a flex-fueler?
Question 3: How will the Volt be sold in its initial introduction? I live in the Austin-San Antonio Corridor, and we do not seem to be a primary market for new vehicles. Rather, they seem to be mainly marketed in the Northeast and the West Coast before being introduced here. I really, really want a Volt. Due to the initial high demand, will you allow a pay-ahead option for purchase prioritization, as has already been mentioned here, so that way buyers can get on an official GM waiting list?
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November 12th, 2007 at 4:43 pm
Thanks to all the respondents. Your response has been overwhelming!
I will review the questions, and although not being able to ask them all (time is limited), I will do my best to cover those that were frequently mentioned.
Answers to many of these questions are already known and can be read in the FAQ section of this site.
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November 12th, 2007 at 5:08 pm
Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel, Flex Fuel!
Make ALL cars and trucks from GM Flex Fuel or multi fuel.
Give us CHOICES and we’ll get off oil.
Thank You!
Vote for Volt!
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November 12th, 2007 at 5:12 pm
I don’t understand why the delay until 2009/10 to get this thig to the market. Doesn’t GM want market share? The future of the auto industry is going to involve a combination of solutions, from all-electrics, hybrid electrics, flex fuels, etc. and some of these cars are already in the market place.
UEV already has a car out at$29,000 that is handicapped equipped. The Lotus/ZAP electric looks like it will be wonderful when it gets here. The Frankfurt auto show displayed some good looking alternatives including the Opel Flextreme, Volvo Recharge, Fiat Panda Aria, and Ford ECOnetic coming down the pike soon. The Daihatsu Cuore is already on the roads in Germany (why not here???)and the Brazilian Obvio is nearly available. So why so long until the VOLT.
People are ready to buy now (at a reasonable price (
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November 12th, 2007 at 5:33 pm
You build it, I’ll buy it! I would like to know if dealerships will be allowed to overprice the cars by thousands of dollars due to limited supply and fantastic demand like Toyota did when the Prius arrived.
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November 12th, 2007 at 5:35 pm
About six months ago I had an opportunity to see a promotional DVD about this new concept car. It was very lackluster and discouraging and made me (and others) question whether GM is really serious about GM’s intent to make and sell such an outstanding car. Here were the issues we observed in the DVD.
1. The woman featured had seemingly difficult time unplugging and later plugging in the volt. How hard can it be?!?! If this is truly a promotional made by marketing professionals that want to sell the Volt. They would make it seem at least as easy as it is.
2. The car moved in the video at a VERY slow speed, like 2MPH. Again, if you want to sell this car, this is not the way to do it. Cars that sell move fast. True electric cars can be fast too.
3. Lastly, (this is crazy) the car made noise in the video like a high revving car. The car had just received a charge so it should be running quiet in electric mode, especially if it’s a marketing video.
So my question is this. When will GM get serious and start marketing this car as if it was a product they really want to sell? What I have seen so far is very similar to the EV-1 ads.
Thanks.
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November 12th, 2007 at 5:38 pm
Actually, a friend of mine from Arizona bought thePrius when it first came out at BELOW market price. She was told by the company that they wanted to get them into the market quickly so that people would see them and get used to them (nice marketing strategy). She bought two! Then her friends and relatives saw the car and bought more, at the higher market price.
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November 12th, 2007 at 5:51 pm
It seems to me that the car could hit the market next year in a basic model with only basic capacity. It could have quick-swap modules and batteries available free, or no cost, to buyers of these early models who are essentially Beta testing them on a large scale. This way, the company gets to bring out the fully concieved model according to their current timetable, but also get their feet in the door so far as capturing a market share following.
Any successful model must use a platform tha is family friendly (2 adults plus 2 kids, a friend, and groceries). Family use is really the only real reason people need the longer miles per charge. OK, convenience is another. Sports cars and two door cars don’t cut it for this crowd. People driving to work only need the 2 seats and 40 mile range, whih are already available. A hatchback or station wagon makes most sense.
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November 12th, 2007 at 5:56 pm
There is a place for the e-flex saturn vue.
Can the e-flex vectra be released in the US to fill the niche?
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November 12th, 2007 at 6:04 pm
Open Systems seem to be discussed a lot.
A challenge for the engineers but a lot of business for the add ons trade. And very profitable for GM. Im thinking of the IPOD as an example of controlling the device but licencing the peripherals.
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November 12th, 2007 at 6:10 pm
If the Lithium Ion batteries are not ready for production by 2010 or the cost is too high would top-level executive team consider using legacy battery technology? My daily commute is only about 20 miles round trip which would still allow me to go 100% electric even with a battery system having less capacity. I would still want to purchase the car.
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November 12th, 2007 at 6:31 pm
This whole game has been during for too long. I do not hope to own this car anymore. GM is stumbling on the flower of the carpet. 2011 for the states only with 60 000 cars ? I live in Canada… What is left for us ? Better go to the Japanese, they move faster and they already have the know how… Too many questions without answers. GM is deceiving me for too many years. The answer is : Too less, too late…
Too bad Mr.Lyle!
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November 12th, 2007 at 6:33 pm
This whole game has been during for too long. I do not hope to own this car anymore. GM is stumbling on the flower of the carpet. 2011 for the states only with 60 000 cars ? I live in Canada… What is left for us ? Better go to the Japanese, they move faster and they already have the know how… Too many questions without answers. GM has deceived me for too many times. The answer is : Too less, too late…
Too bad Mr.Lyle!
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November 12th, 2007 at 6:58 pm
I am planning ot buy a volt if I can fit in it. Americans are taller, and larger. I am 6 ft 3, and weigh 235. I had a saturn which I ad to trade in on a malibu in 2001. Will the Volt accomidate a 6 ft 5 inch American?
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November 12th, 2007 at 7:07 pm
I’d suggest purging all anti-GM rantings on this blog. If these folks don’t like what GM is doing or have stupid doubts about whether the VOLT will be built, let them find another car company to buy their plug-in from (Good luck, suckers).
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November 12th, 2007 at 7:12 pm
1) Will you allow the genset to start when the vehicle is in park with the key on?
2) Will you allow plug-in recharge when the key is on and the vehicle is in park?
3) Will you allow plug-in recharge when the key is on and the vehicle is in drive?
4) Will it start with a key, a button push or shift out of park?
5) Will hotel loads be disabled below a specific SOC?
DrX
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November 12th, 2007 at 7:17 pm
Correction,
I have been thinking it was the Saturn Vue that is on the Epsilon platform..of course it is the Aura…
Is the Aura similar to the Malibu in size?
Forigner..
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November 12th, 2007 at 7:21 pm
Another question: Will there be a blended-mode button for long trips to keep a high SOC instead of depleting the 40 mile AER at the beginning of a long trip?
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November 12th, 2007 at 7:36 pm
For Tony Posawatz:
What will the ICE maintenance schedule be? Will it be fixed intervals, or variable depending on the ICE usage?
I can imagine that the maintenance needs (particularly the demands on lubrication) would be very different depending on whether your daily commute is just under or just over the all electric range.
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:06 pm
I just finshed watching Who Killed the Electric Car. I agree with there findings of who killed it. The only thing that it troubling me is the part where GM owned 60% of a battery company and sold it to Texaco. And the company already had batterys for the electric car the updated EV-1 batterys. My queston is: Why is it taking till 2010 or 2011 to get the volt on the road? GM should build the cars with that battery as lease untill they get better ones. I just want to quit buing gas. But we also need to keep the oil companys from buying up the utility companys somehow. Just my rant thanks for reading.
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:26 pm
1. Can I put a deposit down now to get a car when released?
2. If so how much?
3. Has any of the attendees Read the book Freedom from Oil and if so what are their thoughts on it?
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November 12th, 2007 at 8:29 pm
Now I’m not a tree hugger but I just coughed up 27,000 and change for a 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD. Why? Try 440 miles on 15 gallons of gas. I’ll need to fill up only once a month. Am I happy, I was coughing up $75 dollars ($300 a month) a week versus $50 a month. It’s a no brainer if you have an older model car or truck as I had.
As the Volt is a huge improvement on the Escape’s & other hybrid’s MPG you have a huge market already begging for the Volt.
In 2 year’s time buying the Volt will be a no brainer for most people. I’m hoping, as I’ll have a hybrid SUV only 2 years old then that GM will have met all it’s promises on the Volt and allow people like me to relegate our newer hybrids to camping and fishing trips only.
I have 2 questions:
a) Should the price for a barrel of oil fall to through the floor again, say below $60 dollars or even less ($30?! $12?!), would GM abandon all it’s efforts to produce truly energy efficient flex fuel electric vehicles or recognize their value to independence now exceeds the price of a barrel of oil?
b) Also, didn’t GM (or maybe it was GE if so sorry) recently sell it’s plastics business and all the associated technology to a government owned business in the UAE? Don’t you consider that unwise given the tight integration of plastics in virtually every modern consumer product today?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:23 pm
Assuming the release time of late 2010 and starting price of under $30,000 hold true, I’d absolutely love to buy this car after I get out of college and am stabilized with a job.
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:25 pm
The Opel version Flextreme is a much more practical design – This is really the car I would buy – Again any chances that the OPEL version will be available in the US?
From what I read of Hondas experience – they claim to have learned from the Prius that customers WANT to be seen as driving something diffirent (and green) – Well the Opel is diffirent – AND friends I talk to in Europe seem to like the Chevy Volt more than the Opel (strange) – Seems like the logical solution is to sell the Opel in the US and the Volt in Europe! Sure hope it works out that way – the Volt looks awfully confining cramped and low compared to the Opel.
I would ONLY consider buying the Opel.
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:48 pm
This has been a big talkathon and it is interesting that even while going round in circles a consensus become clear.
Topics
Delivery dates
Solar topups
delta epsilon theta platforms
lots of options
others?
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:51 pm
Was curious if the same things that caused the EV1 to not to be fully released will be a challenege in 2009 as well?
Curious how GM is testing these cars in the public market, if at all.
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November 12th, 2007 at 9:52 pm
styling
fear uncertainty doubt hope
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November 12th, 2007 at 10:50 pm
My feedback to Mr. Lutz is the following:
I currently own a 2005 Acura MDX and a 2006 Honda Civic EX sedan. I purchased them because they are well engineered, reliable vehicles that maintain their resale value compared to other makes. Until now, I have not had a reason to buy GM, as I became convinced innovation and smart risk taking was dead among the big three. The Chevy-Volt platform completed blew me away; I was shocked that such an ingenious vehicle could come from GM. Thank you for proving me wrong, it is about time that Detroit quit following and started leading! If you want to get people like me out of Honda & Acura showrooms and into GM showrooms, build the Chevy Volt. If you do, I will trade in my 2006 Honda Civic EX, which I love, and I will buy one. (I will also look to invest in GM stock, as your stock price will only increase in value as you gain market share back from the imports.) Technically, I understand your reason for focusing on the batteries and I am very impressed that you are going with A123 Systems. I am familiar with their battery technology and know they will get the performance you require — sooner rather than later. Putting them on contract was an extremely smart move that tells me you are serious about this vehicle, so bravo! Mr. Lutz, you have impressed me with your leadership and smart risk management. Consequently, I want to support you.
However, please don’t rest once the Volt hits the streets. The cost of metal in the market is only going to increase due to demand from China and India. May I boldly suggest that your next revolution, and follow on to the Volt, should be an all composite Chevy Volt that cuts the weight in half and doubles both the all electric range and the sustainer engine MPG. Consequently, I have the following question for Mr. Lutz. Is he familiar with the work that RMI (Rocky Mountain Institute) has done with their Hypercar Concept?
Amory Lovins at RMI has developed FiberForge and claims the ability to economically mass produce continuous fiber (load bearing) carbon-carbon composite at the necessary tolerances required for an automobile. If true, GM could combine this technology with the technology developed by the Nation Composite Center (NCC) in Dayton OH, which they already use to mass produce non load bearing composite body panels & bed liners from non-continuous, carbon-carbon, fibers. I believe that with a smart systems engineering approach, you could design and mass produce an all composite car at a competitive price. For example, although carbon-carbon fiber is more expensive per pound than steel, you would only need half the pounds. Furthermore, a vehicle that weighs half the weight of a contemporary automobile would require a smaller less expensive power train, which would further reduce cost. Bottom line, I hope he will consider building a few prototypes to test the durability of this technology for future production.
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:03 pm
We have been teased with tv ads and blogs.
The only real ? is
WHEN will we be able to buy it????
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:12 pm
I took a 2008 Chevy Malibu for a test drive today. Wow!!! It is like a $50,000 for less than $25,000.
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:23 pm
Frank Weber or Bob Lutz: Do you expect to be able to sell the Volt at a profit in the first year, and if not, how long do you expect it to take?
Do you expect there to be significant economies of scale for the li-ion batteries in time?
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November 12th, 2007 at 11:50 pm
Check it out …the 1901 Porsche was a serial hybrid like the volt.
http://green.yahoo.com/blog/ecogeek/153/porsche-had-world-s-first-hybrid-100-years-ago.html
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