A whole set of Production Chevy Volt pictures have been leaked each with one member of the GM executive team standing before it. See the car in its native silver in all its glory! These are official studio photos although it doesnt seem like GM meant for them to break yet.
That’s vehicle line engineer Tony Posawatz above. And in order below, Andrew Farah (chief engineer), Tony P again, Frank Weber (vehicle line director), Bob Boniface (chief designer), and of course Bob Lutz (GM vice chairman).
Source (TheCarConnection)
Thanks to Luis O. for the tip!
Gallery:
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:03 pm)Wow Cool! Not a bad looking car.
First Post!
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:04 pm)Looks pretty attractive to me . . .
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:05 pm)It can’t be the real thing. Lutz is not wearing his pink tie!
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:05 pm)More rounded shape then expected, but the over look is very nice… I won’t be ashame to ride around in my red Volt
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:06 pm)Sweet!!!
When do they start taking orders?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:08 pm)YAY!!! Now they just need to release the car so I can get mine!! I love it.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:10 pm)Get the guys out of the way and get a Higher resolution PICs.(jk)
Otherwise…..nice looking car….can’t wait.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:13 pm)Autoblog has 15 large shots in their gallery.
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2011-chevy-volt/1023888/full/
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:15 pm)This is awesome
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:16 pm)I’d be happy to have one in my driveway! Nov. 2010 seems soooo far away!
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:16 pm)Nice! OK, we got the looks right. Time to get fire up the procurement sledgehammer warmed up, and get the COSTS optimized! $27k all-black or chili-pepper red volt for me, please!
PS. Don’t you think the side mirrors “fit” with the look of the vehicle much better than the all-metal lookin’ ones on the “Transformers 2″ spy-pics car? I sure do.
EDIT: … HEY LYLE… does this mean it’s finally time to remove the Volt Concept from the gm-volt.com site banner?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:16 pm)Amazing! It’s everything the Volt should be. Very aggressive, modern / futuristic, and expensive looking. Really like the confident expression on the “face” of the car. Also it’s got great detailing and really shows off it’s price.
It does have a little bit of a Prius / Civic look, but the overall shape and the details are much much nicer. This is a car that people can feel good driving down the road, and not just because of the symbol of the car, but because it’s actually a NICE LOOKING car. In fact I can’t think of a single compact that I think looks better.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:18 pm)ok time to start analyzing:
Hard to see in the one pic of the rear end but can we tell if the center exhaust stayed to production?
From the look of that rear end it looks like this will be a hatch-back, which is just fine with me I love the versatility they offer.
where did they hide the plug port? under the bonnet? under one of those Volt badges by the side mirrors?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:18 pm)I’m still looking forward to the detail shots from all angles, but my first impression is that it’s pretty nice. It’s a bit more “inflated” than I’d hoped. With what we see so far it certainly looks to be in the same family as the Prius and Insight, but with a little bolder look. I don’t see too many similarities to the concept, but that’s not all bad. However, I kinda liked the black front pillars on the concept, with the paint line coming up from the back, around the roof and back. I really hate big front columns obscuring my vision of the road…
So, when do we get some interior?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:24 pm)I like it!
Now, if they don’t make me take my eyes off the road to press a bunch of those danged little buttons from the ‘leaked’ interior shots a couple of weeks back . . .
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:28 pm)#12 Paco3791 – “where did they hide the plug port?” I think most people believe it’s behind the “Volt badge.” The question remains, “one side or two?”
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:28 pm)Criticism: it has that same steeply-sloped front glass all GM cars have, which is such a challenge to keep de-fogged in inclement weather. That’s not a turn-off by any means, it just emphasizes that they dare not ‘wimp out’ on the battery-powered A/C (if you’ve ever driven a late-model GM car in the rain, you know exactly what I’m talking about).
Praise: it manages to avoid those awful newt-eye taillights from the Malibu.
…and where the heck is the charging port?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:31 pm)Not bad at all; in fact, I’d agree with earlier statement that
this is perhaps the best looking compact car ever!
I really like the color a lot, too; it’s silver alright, but with a blue accent! NICE!!
I guess the only remaining issues are the interior design (esp. the buttons, HUD) and price!
Go VOLT!
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:31 pm)DOG’GONE WOW!!!—Excellent job GM!
Congratulations to Lyle for developing this site. This site and the many people who post here have contributed greatly to the making of this machine. Wow–I need some time to digest this!
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:32 pm)it looks more like silver green, can you say money green?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:33 pm)The redesign for aero consideration definitely changed the emotion the vehicle evokes, but I can live with it. This actually reminds me of some old Chrysler vehicles in the 80s that I can’t remember the name.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:34 pm)This is a nice looking car. It’s not smash mouth aggressive like the concept but it’s sleek and appealing. More appropriate for what it’s designed to do. I can see why Bob Boniface said he liked it better.
Way to go GM!
Statik, you were disappointed with the shots from the Transformer movie set. What are you thinking now?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:34 pm)I can say it enough: this is a very, very good looking car. I hope its powertrain will all promises. Good job GM !
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:35 pm)I love it, especially how they blacked-out the top of the doors to line-up and integrate with the mirror and power port. I hate the silver colour though (just me). There are so many silver cars in my neck-of-the-woods! seems like 75% of people here buy silver for some reason. Make mine anything but silver or white.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:36 pm)I can not say it enough: this is a very, very good looking car. I hope its powertrain will all promises. Good job GM !
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:37 pm)Does anyone know how tall Tony Posawatz is?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:39 pm)Where did they hide the charge port? The panel next to the mirror where the concept plugged in doesn’t look big enough for the new J1772 Yazaki connector.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:41 pm)Wow. I’m disappointed. All the edginess is gone…. looks like a ’09 toyota corolla now. bleh. That’s a big let down to me. I’m glad everybody else is excited though.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:42 pm)I’ll change my vote from the Transformer poll… I do like this one better than the concept.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:42 pm)It’s ok verging on acceptable.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:42 pm)Zita, are you online today? I think we could use some of these photos in the previous choice of colors. Hi Res photos @
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2011-chevy-volt/1023888/
What do you think?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:43 pm)Gosh… I hate to be the Debbie Downer here, but gosh is this a letdown! The prototype had me hoping for something truly revolutionary- a really aggressive-looking, low-to-the-ground badass batcar- sort of like a futuristic Chrysler Pacifica. Instead we have a souped up Toyota Corolla with a Pontiac rear-end. I just don’t see how GM can reconcile the very ho-hum appearance with the lofty price tag.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:43 pm)I love the material they used on the bottom sides and bottom front. I believe it is some type of dark gray plastic that can take the beating from the road grime – easier to clean and better at hiding lose gravel dings that can pit the bottom sides of cars.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:44 pm)OK Photoshoppers, now is your time to shine!
Photoshop ideas:
1) Wack the fleshy bits standing in the way. (obviously)
2) Color variations (I’d like to see it is white. Red and Black have already been mentioned)
3) Sportier wheel/tire combo. These are OK, but a bit on the tame side. Can it handle sportier wheels without it looking pimped?
4) A REAL grill insert, instead of the paint on grill.
+1
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:45 pm)These photos really get the adrenaline flowing and bring credibility to the anticipated launch. I can’t wait!!! I can only hope GM accepts and honors the committed waiting list.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:45 pm)I”m all for it. Good looking. I liked the concept better because it was so radically different but I also like this.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:45 pm)#27 I am also a little disappointed. I think the design went to far towards the prius shape. But I am reserving my full judgment for when I can see a different color (ack! what is that green-silver, teal?! argh my eyes the goggles do nothing). And also for when we can get some clean shots of the whole car full rear full side profile the whole ball of wax.
The drive train is still the main selling point for me, but this is not a home run as far as styling is concerned.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:46 pm)The looks are very watered down from the prototype. It looks more like a Toyota Camery than the original Volt concept. I will probably still buy one, but I will not be as proud to drive one as I’d hoped.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:47 pm)Does anyone know any of the guys in these photo’s? Any feeling for a) just how low to the ground this is and b) how much head room it looks like we’re going to have in there?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:47 pm)31 Ed:
Most of that is the Camaro…but I agree with you…why on earth is the gray plastic around the bottom?
yikes.
Other than that, it looks good for a small car. It isn’t meant to be a roadster or bubble car. They need some very bold color choices for it though.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:49 pm)Well, be still my heart.
As someone who consistently has harped on the style of the production Volt, these photos are coming as a little bit of a shock.
Other than being “slightly disappointed” with the wheel/tire size and losing the swooping detail on the front roof line, the rest looks quite good.
I will wait until I can see a better collection of photos from side and rear corner, BUT I must say right now…..
I LIKE IT!
It does not look like a Prius, best I can tell!
Nice job GM!
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:53 pm)Well, I have to say that these shots make the car look much, much better than the leaked Transformer movie photos. That being said, it looks absolutely nothing like the concept which we were promised it would retain much of that styling. I absolutlely loved the concept.That still makes GM a bunch of liars in my book.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:55 pm)Damn, so much for a sporty electric car. I guess I’ll have to wait for Tesla to come up with a cool sedan.
It now kinda looks like a Prius with a Bowtie on the grill.
It looked much better as a low-slung “chop-top”. Maybe someone will have to buy one and take it to Chip Foose to make it look decent like the concept.
It does look like a hatchback though. I guess that’s a plus.
You can take me off the list for a new one. I’ll keep my Mazda6.
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:56 pm)How do we make a deposit/down payment?
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:56 pm)Looks good to me. I still want one
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:57 pm)It’s a nice looking compact car. There is no question about that. Now, I prefer if GM came out with a coupe version, but I will still be very interested in the current 4-door configuration. I wonder if they will have a sports package (I am talking looks only).
Sep 8th, 2008 (1:59 pm)@26 Randy C.
>> new J1772 Yazaki connector
FWIW, I found this: http://www.sae.org/mags/AEI/4062
Have you read somewhere that this is going to be the connector for the Volt? Got a link or citation? Personally, I was hoping for a connector a little more “svelte” than that. Bleah. IMO, you’re definitely right, I don’t think (eyeballing it, of course) that will fit behind the Volt badging.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:02 pm)I wish the designers would get out of the way!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:02 pm)I must say that overall I am pretty disappointed with the execution. I find that the design and shape of the vehicle do very little to attract me to the car or get me excited.
The concept version had style and flair and this is just weak.
I favorite view is the 5th picture of the rear and rear quarter. It has a nice shape and some pretty bold lines although I’m not a fan of the black plastic on the back. I think they are trying to make it look like the concept but I think it looks terrible. I would rather just see it in body colored sheet metal for a more uniform look.
Maybe it look more appealing in person but I’m underwhelmed.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:03 pm)Well, I think this is a sharp looking car, and I’m sure there are some features that will be very cool (one site mentioned LED foglights).
I must admit, however, that I didn’t realize the Volt would appear so small.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:04 pm)Looks rather milquetoast to me….like an old man’s car…sigh.
Those are really funky side rear view mirrors.
The final production design will NOT prevent me from buying the car though as I am much more interested in the technology and fuel savings…
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:04 pm)To those who don’t like the styling, stick around. E-flex is just getting started.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:04 pm)I think it is a very good looking vehicle. When you consider that it will have significantly better acceleration than the Prius, as well as better mileage, the better looks are merely icing on the cake.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:06 pm)Personal Opinions/Wish list:
Comparing the top of this page photo with that in the heading:
1. I wish it would have kept that slight pointed styling detail on the frontend, above and below the grill.
2. I miss the longer hood, but knew it was a goner from the beginning.
3. If you compare these two pictures, the Volt clearly lost a lot of the aggresiveness. That is truely sad. But the cars clearly look similar. GM did a good job morphing the concept Volt into the production car.
I just think they went a lttle too far on the aero tuning. The car looks a little too smooth. That alone may be the feature that cools some people’s opinions.
Hopefully there will be a larger wheel option!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:06 pm)Not the coolest design but not to shabby either. I agree with most of the posts regarding the bottom color – they should stick to one.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:10 pm)Hats off to GM on this car , the styling and size represents the technology expected , now if the pricing is sub $35,000.00 then they had better look to more than one battery supplier and start to work right away on a Cadillac version of about the same size with a price range of $45,000 to $50,000 for upper management and successful business owners to drive.
GM should set their goal to sell as many of these as the public wants.
It wont be a selling problem , it will be a supply the demand problem.
These cars should have distinctive colors like the Cadillac to set them apart from the normal vehicles of the past and all the colors should be rich and beautiful , just like the cars.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:10 pm)Great job GM; keep innovating. Crank out a Sky Roadster, and perhaps extend the range. Maybe make Volt 2.0 a BEV.
No doubt I will become a GM customer AGAIN!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:10 pm)I’m not very thrilled with the “corporate” gm front end either. This is going on every car now starting with the Malibu. The Vue and Equinox are getting this look, the new Cruze is getting this look, the Aveo has this design and I think it’s getting old fast.
They should have went with something more unique and bold. The concept front end looked good because it was a little unique yet identifiable as GM.
I think the Volt really could have used something that was all it’s own as opposed to something shared with other models. It needs to set itself apart from the others and not just fit in.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:11 pm)I like it, especially the back. Nothing like the back of the prius which I really don’t like.
On thing I find interesting is the “scoop” out of the hood. Must be for some aero reason. Still, I think that gives it any interest look.
Nathan
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:12 pm)The body has changed quite a bit over the yrs….looks like GM couldn’t resist the Prius look-alike contest! Oh well, at least its going to production…hopefully we wont be forced to lease instead of purchase : )
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:12 pm)No thanks. The concept versions were more aggressive and impressive to me, this one looks horrible and effeminate. I will not buy one of these.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:13 pm)Maybe someone will come out with a body kit and some aftermarket rims. Then maybe I could drive one.
Oh ya, also a computer hack that makes it put out enough power to eat up Mustangs. Now we’re talking. Fast and Furious 5, the Electric Revolution.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:13 pm)So, call me what you will. I am still disappointed in GM for complete straying away from the concept. A “Cool” electric would have won the world over and set a new standard. Now they will only continue with the uglyness and add a plug. Yes, I know most of you are just happy to have one and that is why you have lost the dream, but step back and look at it…really. I’ll still buy one because it is from GM and it has a plug, but they could have done better….sad…Honda looks like they might try to seal GMs vision with a “cool” hybrid with their CR-Z. http://automobiles.honda.com/cr-z/ It’s not nearly as nice as the GM concept, but they are on that path; The tuner way
I know the volt wasn’t but,
Please GM give me a Electric Muscle
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:14 pm)I like the looks, but its a shame all the suits have their mugs in the way.. I want to see the carI I hope the volt makes a difference for GM and especially its dwindling workforce in US plants.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:14 pm)Nice!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:16 pm)terrible redesign. It’s one thing to build a revolutionary car, but another to have it actually sell. This just deminished the possible user base immensly. I am glad that some like it. I’ll wait for Tesla whitestar.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:18 pm)If you go in close on one of the photos, you can make out that the tires are Bridgestone.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:19 pm)Beautiful! Much smoother and more refined than the concept. I like the front end more than I like the back (I understand that the Kammback is aerodynamic, but I’m not a huge fan of it), but overall I love the package. Great job!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:21 pm)First impressions:
a. I think the rear looks slightly smaller then the Transformer video although that could be due to the angle of that shot.
b. Love the color. MUCH better that that color in the video.
c. Love the LEDs
d. It does look like a single exhaust exist in the middle rear.
e. Love the way the lights wrap around the front and rear.
What do you folks think about the roof? Is is just poly or black sheet metal or solar?
Jim
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:22 pm)This looks nothing like all the previous release / prototype pictures..it no longer has the cool sporty looked that they made everyone think it was going to have.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:22 pm)Well looks good, What worries me is the price tag.!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:23 pm)Sorry, but I am, with Ed and Paco, one of the few dissenters. I think it looks wretched. Like an ugly Prius. Sorry — I don’t mean to rant, and I really don’t want to start a flame war, but I think it’s awful. Nothing like the Crossfire-styled prototype. Not at all a sports car anymore. I’m afraid it may sell poorly as a result: too many potential purchasers will see it as an ugly, expensive Prius and buy the latter. I’d love to be proved wrong, but I think GM’s ace in the hole just turned out to be another Hummer.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:24 pm)It looks ok, but I
HATE SIDESKIRTS AND PLASTIC DETAILING THAT ARE NOT PAINTED. IT LOOKS LIKE CRAP IN A COUPLE OF YEARS.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:25 pm)God, the more I look at these pictures, the more I want one. I mean, not just for environmental reasons, but because it’s just such a good-looking car. It looks like a pleasure to drive, and something to be excited about being seen in. Purely, viscerally, this is a car I want to drive. Maybe instead of waiting for the second generation, I’ll save up and make this my first car in a few years.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:25 pm)Well.
The Volt Concept looked like a 40k car.
The Volt Production Version looks like a 20k car…
I aint saying i dont like it, i think it stil looks nice, but it looks way cheaper than the Concept.
Frankly speaking I am a little dissapointed.When it comes to looks, a car that costs 40k should compete with a gasoline car that costs 40k.
The fact that it runs on electricity shouldnt be the only reason to buy this car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:29 pm)It won’t turn many heads, unless it comes equipped with a noisemaker. It is not aesthetically sexy, but it has beauty beneath it’s skin.
I remember the day when manufacturers put attractive female models in front of cars. I often thought the models looked better than the cars. GM is smart for putting these men in front of the Volt. It makes the Volt look better by comparison. Maybe Lutz could wear a pink, striped bikini.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:30 pm)Cool!…I wonder if the vehicle in the photos is a “mule”…and did any of the execs drive it home after the photo shoot?
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:31 pm)I have to say I’m quite disappointed with the look of the car. It looks like every new Chevy I’m seeing on the road now. I loved the edgy look of the concept. It had some ‘growl’ to it.
This car has nothing exciting about it that makes me want to run right out and buy one.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:32 pm)The new body style not unique to all the other cars in todays markets. I like the original concept design by far and that is what intrigued me about wanting one. I will not buy one of these. I agree with the others who see the association with the Prius, which i think is an ugly car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:33 pm)It is a nice looking car. I would have hoped that the front end would have been just a bit longer, but other than that I have no problems with it. I dont mind the color, but I am looking forward to seeing what else they have to choose from. Maybe there will be an “sport” version also?
And for all of you that have been spouting off, IT DOES NOT LOOK LIKE A PRIUS!!!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:34 pm)I can’t believe all of you who think this car looks good. Maybe everyone in your neighboorhood drives a corolla or other grocery-getter, but this car has almost no styling at all. The shape is entirely for aero.
Compare it to the concept, which looked aggressive, something sporty, something unlike what you see on the road. It actually stirs emotion. This has nice headlights & taillights, but that’s it. Cover them up and you could mistake this for any other bland car on the road.
For a car like this, that’s supposed to appeal to those on the cutting edge, I can’t see anything that appeals to me. If this car wanted to go curvy, make it look more organic. There are tons of examples of modern organic type designs out there. And no, an egg doesn’t qualify.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:35 pm)Wow. Looks much better than I figured it would. I think they kept fairly faithful to the concept version, too.
Any word on an all-electric version? I’m brainstorming to think of ways I might be able to afford a Volt.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:36 pm)Boring!
It should look more aerodynamic and futuristic. This looks…ordinary.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:37 pm)OK, it is not the concept car, but we all knew that was never going to happen.
But I really like it! Don’t forget – sky blue metallic for me. And if you are going to keep a two tone color scheme for those bottom panels, I want mine in black.
And now we need to see some complete photos of the interior. Maybe those will appear just before September 16th….
I am all prepared. My wife thinks that the second home we just bought in FL was because I finally gave in for a vacation home. Little does she realize that this was done to be in the prime Volt initial sales geographic area………… I love it when a plan comes together!!!!!!
GO GM – GO GM Volt Team!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:39 pm)It looks way better than the EV1 – finally, a conventional look for revolutionary tech – always a winner.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:40 pm)UGH..they turned my sleek sports car into a malibu. WTF ???
the design team should be shot.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:42 pm)The front isn’t as ugly as the concept was, but the back is just downright boring. Fortunately, I never planned on buying it for the looks, though it would have been nice if that could have been a factor.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:44 pm)I’m glad the project is moving forward. But once again, I’m disappointed at the difference between the concept and these latest pictures. For the time being, I’m turned off. But, I will continue to track this closely. I am very interested in getting a production plug in hybrid. GM has 2 more years of work ahead of them. Good luck!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:44 pm)Totally disappointed. Photos are nothing like original concept vehicle. A lot less aero and sporty. Sorry but a real turn-off.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:47 pm)psklenar — from what I remember of standanding next to Tony Posawatz (picture at the very top) at the Volt Nation event in NY, I would put him at ~68 inches tall.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:47 pm)Definitely disagree with a lot of you on here…one of the reasons I was so excited about the volt (besides the obvious reasons) was that it looked very much more like a sports car in the original prototype version. We have hybrids a plenty on the market and although they run on different technology, the cost savings is very similar when factoring in the electric cost of the volt.
Volt was exciting because it was an electric car that looked like a sports car.
not happy with this smooth as a turd design.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:48 pm)I knew the side window glass from the concept wouldn’t make the cut. Too expensive to manufacture, and that curved-glass-shoulder that it created would make for a distorted image looking out from the inside. These photos show a similar ‘shoulder’ at the base of the side glass, but now it’s a nice black accent stripe that will look great on mine in Victory Red! The simulated front grill plates should be blacked out to keep the same family look with the rest of the Chevy lineup. One more thing: Do any of you know the exterior dimensions? Is it the same length as a Prius or Civic, or more like a Maxima or Altima?
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:48 pm)Maybe they should offer an E-Flex Powertrain option for the Camaro, with a tuned up motor. Stupid corporate politics ruined what could have been the car of the century. My 4 year old could come up with a better looking design than this.
Oh, and by the way, #76 TCook, IT DOES LOOK LIKE A PRIUS!!!!! (I have Caps Lock too.)
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:49 pm)Bummer! Aggressive looks are TOTALLY gone. Now it has the same shape as the current hybrids you see tree-hugging, smug San Franciscans driving around in. I wanted to car that helps the envronment and infuses jobs and money in the US economy without looking like a total tool driving around in it.
I’ll just wait for a Plug in Camry, that car still has a shape that suggests more than a 0-60 time of a weekend!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:53 pm)I think it looks real good for a car that will knock the bottom out of the oil market.
I betcha de gummint could buy one for each of us for less than the cost of a couple aircraft carriers, or the cost of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac takeover or the cost of Medicaid for illegal immigrants or………
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:53 pm)It looks like something they would drive in Oklahoma, for crying out loud. And 40k is too much, it needs to be under 30 out the door to succeed.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:54 pm)Funny how earlier posts here are in the majority of…
“I love it” and “It looks great good job GM!”
Then later posts start to come back to what I see as reality…
“Underwhelming” and “Ordinary”
Well, I’ve been hard at work with my mantra and I keep telling myself that its working for me ….
Its more about the electrification of the car — not how cool it looks — forget about the concept
Its more about the electrification of the car — not how cool it looks — forget about the concept
…. and if I am still willing to leave BMW for GM by the time this car is available in my local dealerships, then my mantra will have worked. But I must be diligent and stick to it because the death of the concept, the design that had me at ‘hello’, is still a fresh wound in my heart of hearts.
One good thing I can say is that when I look at these pictures, I don’t think of a ‘Nerd Shoe’…..so that is a good sign.
Bottom line; the new design is just good enough for me to stick this out and see what happens.
I have not yet reached the “Customer Depletion Point”
Thanks for the photos Lyle, keep up the good work
<>
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:54 pm)Black out the grill covers and it will look sporty again. Those brushed aluminum panels are taking away from the agressive look it used to have.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:55 pm)I am also disappointed in the the production design. If had wanted a Prius, I would have already bought one! I like the idea of driving a plug-in but I dont like typicals. The concept look along with it being a true plug-in had me in line to be the first to buy one. But now I guess I will have to wait to see if the price comes down on the Tesla.
I really hope this set of pictures is misleading!
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:57 pm)I don’t know why I should be surprised. We have been hearing “expectation management” language for months now that the car would depart from the concept design. But here is the thing, I don’t see why we needed to wait for YEARS to get a knockoff of a Toyota design with a battery.
Frankly, aside from highlighting the massive disconnect between the concept visionaries/designers and the production engineers, this puts an exclamation point on the fact Detroit can’t really deliver on their innovation promises.
I have been telling myself for months I didn’t need that Mustang or Camaro retro style, because I was going to get a edgy package with Green benefits. Now I need to rethink, since apparently Detroit can’t currently give us the best of both worlds.
Instead, we get…and I agree with Tom…boring and ordinary.
Sep 8th, 2008 (2:57 pm)Imagine that thing in black / black
EDIT: I think the car would looks worlds better with slightly more flared out wheel wells. This shouldn’t do much harm to the aero
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:01 pm)Utter disappointment!
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:02 pm)Wow! I am thoroughly crushed….
I was so waiting for this car to come out and be my next purchase. Why did they have to stray so far from the concept. This is not revolutionary anymore, just another stock looking car from GM, way to kill it guys…
And expect enthusiasts who wanted it, to not want it any longer….
I am not buying this ugly piece now, so Thanks…
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:02 pm)It’s about time an Amreican company came up with a good looking small car (hybrid or not). Good job. Best looking vaporware I ever saw!
I hope the mirrors pivot. Otherwise dealers better stock them before they ever start delivering the cars. Women are gonna be clipping them on garage doors right and left. (Ok ladies don’t yell at me for being sexist, maybe its only the women I marry that can’t drive).
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:02 pm)Ughh. This is so bad that i want to take myself off the list. (1200 ish) Along with the ipod like interior this thing has been cheapened and massified so much that frankly i’m embarrassed for GM. Toyota execs must be popping the champagne right now.
http://jalopnik.com/5043202/chevy-volt-interior-photo-lifted-from-internal-gm-presentation-looks-like-an-ipod
That plug-in Prius is going to wipe this off the radar screen.
I’m getting an electric scooter. For $2,500, who can beat that?
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:02 pm)To be honest, I am very disappointed in the production design compared to the concept photo (featured at the top of the Website) -
The production car looks like any other sedan out there – and they are talking $30-$40 grand? Typical GM -
For $18,500 I’m going for the new Honda Insight – much better design, half the price, and shipping in our life time.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:04 pm)Looks good enough…give me mine in black on black with another set of rims and 30K price tag and I’m happy.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:04 pm)This is worse than what Ford did with the Thunderbird!! I would have bought the concept design….but…this is no better than the ugly Prius.
What a disappointment!
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:04 pm)great..except for the weird pics of the guys in front of it..
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:06 pm)Never cared too much what it looked like anyways, but I think it looks better than the concept. Can’t wait to learn more about the Engineering and Innovation!
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:07 pm)EEEEEEKS! The concept in the upper-right corner of the site is svelt, aggressive and COOL. The model is blubbery, round and boring. What happened?
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:07 pm)To say this looks good?????????? I was thinking about purchasing more GM stock, but if this is the car… forget-about-it.
I think those people saying good things about this look are seeded by GM or a Marketing Co. The release is suspicious. Bottom line is, you’ve got to be kidding me! The car looks like an old Escort. Crap! I’m sooo dissapointed. 40k will keep this car, with this look on the show-room floor. I’m going to buy me an Aptera and sell the rest of my GM stock. Didn’t they do any Consumer research? Blaaaa………
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:11 pm)I am EXTREMELY disappointed in the “Production” version versus the “Concept” version – It’s a 4-door old man’s car! YUCK! I doubt that I will even get one now, especially if THAT costs $30K+!
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:11 pm)must…stay…focused… …losing…interest…fast. too prius/econobox!
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:12 pm)I must say I am very disappointed. GM and Chevy have lacked style for a generation. They were showing a move back to great style with the concept car. It looks like they chickened out, maybe in an effort to sell more cars to a broader market.
Looks to me like they got lots of publicity out of the sports car just to switch it to a boring compact for production.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:13 pm)For all of you who want an aggressive looking sports or muscle car, and there seems to be a lot of you: Don’t worry. It’s a lot easier to make a $75K sports car with E-FLEX than to produce a a conventional four passenger sedan with E-FLEX for $40K.
Soon enough you’ll have plenty of choices. They’ll just be very expensive.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:13 pm)Too bad. It started off looking like it would have been a cool car to have. Now it looks like everything else or worse. I will keep what I have. Still you have done a great job on the site..
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:13 pm)Looks like a chevy not cool, but hey volkswagen sold, I judge by apearance but that doesn’t always get you a good wife or car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:13 pm)I think this is a much better look than the concept, which looked slightly ridiculous to me. It nice to see they toned the look down a few notches.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:15 pm)I have to say I’m pretty disappointed. It really does not look much like the concept at all. Pretend for a moment that that car is not an electric car. Now it just looks like a civic/prius combo.
And you want me to pay nearly 40k for a car that looks like that?
That thing does not have half the emotional excitement that the concept had.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:18 pm)Do us all a favor and pull the plug now…
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:18 pm)Well it would look great without that Grill.
As said by previous posters the Grill is hard to deal with. I would just remove it and move the two lights tougher with one clear piece of plastic putting a Chevy symbol in the middle of the lights. Possibly lights up the entire bar. They can add more style by hiding it over a clear plastic cover.
The rest looks nice. I understand on a AREO design you are limited to make it AERO.
IF they are going to keep the grill black it out some or take out the fake look.
Then it will be perfect, and who knows if this is the actuall car it might change still some.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:18 pm)I feel betrayed.. The promise of an aggressive car and this is what turns out. They should have started with something similar then they wouldn’t have people looking for a specific type of car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:19 pm)OMG this is terrible.. I went from a 99.99999% chance of buying based on the concept to a 0% based on the production model.. I know concepts are usually not what makes it to production but damn..can it be any more of a generic cookie cutter car.. If this is what GM is hoping for to “save” it.. they have some issues coming up ahead..How do I remove myself from the waitlist?? if they call me they will get an earful..lol
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:21 pm)I dunno, its not bad, just kind of looks like….every other late model sedan on the road. Sort of a combination of a Prius, Malibu, Acura TL, Civic, Camry. The back end is pretty slick, but the other 3 sides are fairly vanilla. I would have bought this over a longer EV-only range, but at this point, the first/best option to get me through my 70 mile a day driving gets bought after 1.5 years more of the current car payment. Figure by that time I should have some decent options.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:21 pm)I still am shocked, though I have no idea why, about the negative responses that this car gets. Come on, people, it’s what it can DO that counts! This car, if it does have the capabilities it aims for, will evolve the concept of the commuter car by a hundred years! We’re looking at the biggest advance since the replacement of the horse! People don’t complain this much about the props on Dr. Who, and his space ship on that show is just an old blue box.
If you truly hate it that much, please remove your name from the list so I can get mine sooner.
On a more positive note, does anyone have any idea why the roof is such a different color then the rest of the car? Is it a modular segment that can be swapped out with other parts like a sunroof, or is it just an accent? It seems odd to have a black panel facing upwards, as it would heat up the car more. Unless that is the elusive solar panel to cool the battery when parked.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:21 pm)The more I look at it, the more I hope it’s a problem with perspective in photos.
At this point, I would buy one to be practical but not stylish. I think the response from the public will be :”Oh, so that’s what a Volt looks like. Nice.”
Maybe the lines will be more striking in person.
TK
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:26 pm)To # 68 and # 123
I would think it to be more like a solar panel roof. At least thats how it appears to me in the second picture with Tony P. If it turns out to be true then – right there – thats a big reason to go for it! My next question would be will it charge the battery even while the car is being driven while the sun shines? Or just cool/charge the battery when the car is parked at work (of course on a sunny day under slear skies)?
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:26 pm)If you guys were expecting a camaro from Volt 1.0 then you were kidding yourselves!!!
They need to make this car the ultimate appliance to everyone. The Toyota Camry is an awful looking car but sells 300k+ units every year. I’m sure there will be some sporty additions and don’t forget those 2 other e-flex concepts under wraps.
Not to mention that color makes me think of bodily fluids……
Nonetheless, I will take a dark blue one with tinted windows and chromed mirrors like the one from the transformers set.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:27 pm)One more comment. Looking at the paint, trim, wheels, I’ll bet this the Volt LTZ. The Volt LS will have plastic hubcaps, skinny tires, black grill, painted rear end……..
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:27 pm)Did anyone else notice the Non-Body colored roof???
Solar panels anyone?
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:28 pm)Hey, Startik, Nasaman, Noel, where are you ?
I like the car, not you ?
JC
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:28 pm)It is actually just about what I expected. I have been following for a long time (#1200 ish). I do think the concept looked better . . . but . . . I realize that compromises would be made.
The decision though is do I actually buy the Volt, or do I pay a lot more for styling and get a Fisker Karma
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:31 pm)Personally I’d rather own a 1914 Detroit Electric.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:31 pm)Disappointing! This production model picture is no where close to the awsome look of the proto-type. Now it just looks like a run of the mill dinky yugo-machine. Let’s get back to the look of the original show car it was.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:32 pm)We should have a poll to see what the popular opinion is on this site now.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:33 pm)That looks great, a stylish car with a faint smell of money.
Shame about the pinup boys, wouldnt they be better naked ?
Bare essentials carefully covered by a GM logo?
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:33 pm)A little Photoshop to fix the grill covers and, “Voila!”
The nose. She is fixed!
http://www.vector2.com/volt/1.jpg
Any better?
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:33 pm)Very nice! The shape is subtle but appealing. It looks like they are really emphasizing design through graphic details. The lights and especially the grill and fog lamp areas, are pronounced but this is all done with graphics, not with shape and bends like traditional vehicles.
I like is a lot! Well done.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:34 pm)I love the rear end. Maybe because I like Volvo C30 which has glass down to the rear bumper. It is the only part preserved from the concept. The rest is too “normal car”. Definitely does not look like prius but still too tall for my taste. That is due to compact car platform, only that much can be done with a short car. However, I think that European Civic looks MUCH more “electric” and modern.
http://auto.honda.sk/modely/civic-5d/fotogaleria.html
I agree with GM4life that CR-Z looks sharper.
Sorry those waiting for photoshoping, I will wait until next week when full pictures will be released to do color variations. Just post your wish color:)
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:35 pm)It looks 1000x better than a Prius. I like it! I wouldn’t buy it in silver but back would look great! When it comes to aero there are only so many ways you can go. You are confined to a teardrop shape from the beginning. Everything else you do raises the CD! GM did a great job. This isn’t a sports car, it’s a car that DOESN’T USE GAS! For those of you who wanted a Camero, go get a Camero.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:37 pm)The Volt looks great. But in the near future you must take the leap to an all electric Volt. I think I read where BMW will have all their models off of fossil fuel by 2013 and so will most all the other automakers.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:42 pm)#116
I agree wholeheartedly, while I liked the concept it was in need of toning down. Not to mention it was obvious serious changes were going to need to be made on the aero side, I’m not sure why some folks are so shocked at the way it turned out.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:42 pm)It looks like your average compact, $20-25K range. My only beef will be if they try to sell it for $35-40K, it definitely doesn’t have the styling to play with the cars in that range.
The big problem is they set out with the sexy, muscle car concept. And no matter how many times you tell yourself that that was just a concept and the real car won’t look like that your still going to feel let down by this.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:42 pm)Looked better in the transformers 2 clip (blue with silver mirrors, lots of tint). Still not a bad looking car. Guys gotta keep in mind, this is still a sports compact on a Delta platform. Compare this car to:
-Chevy Cobalt
-Chevy HHR
-Pontiac G5
-Saturn Ion
It’s the best looking car on this platform.
Even if the car turned out to look like an Aztec, I would still be interested, because it’s what’s underneath the styling that draws me to the Volt. It will probably be the first production EREV, and the only one we know about that one of the big 3 are working on.
Once Ford/Mazda releases theirs to the public, I’ll certainly switch my loyalties. But until then, I’m very excited to see the Volt in showrooms in 2 years.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:43 pm)ok.. now.. all you saying that the volt is great for what it accomplishes.. ok you may have a point but it is evolutionary rather then revolutionary and hopefully better cars will follow soon.
Now those of you who are saying this car LOOKS nice.. someone must have spiked your coolaid.. or you live in san francisco.. This car is depressingly plain and simple. My hope is that the terrible sales to come from this don’t hamper advancement on these types of cars in the future. or put GM out of business. I really wanted to buy one of these too.. bummer
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:48 pm)My question is, if it is electric, how much power does it take to transform into a 35 foot tall robot? All jokes aside, it looks, at first glance, like well engineered car, it has nice lines and a more futuristic look. I like
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:50 pm)I am disappointed. I am one of the few people that like the plastic bottom IF it continues into a smooth underbelly of the car. That makes a huge aero difference and would be worthwhile. Other than that, the only similarities between the concept are painted on. The painted on grill, the black plastic roof/trunk/doors…I’m not fooled.
I have a picture of the concept as my wallpaper. When co-workers walk by they say, whoa, what is that.
Needless to say, this car will not be my new wallpaper.
Will I buy it, maybe. If it looked like the concept, GM would have had my money hands down. Now, they will have competition.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:51 pm)Can you say major league disappointing. I was so hoping for the agressive styling shown in the concept car to compliment the engineering and future potential of electric automobiles. This car may appeal to some but not what I was intending to spend my money on. Thats too bad….it looked like something spectacular until now.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:52 pm)I can tell you one thing don’t get excited over these pictures don’t judge a car by it’s picture book cover but when you get to see it for real then you can say something
I think the pictures are a polished Mule and nothing more
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:53 pm)I think it looks great. To my mind, sporty=sleek, not blocky, and the original concept was too blocky to look sporty to me. To those who say they’ll wait for a Tesla sedan, I’ll bet it’ll be sleek, too. Having seen several of the Tesla roadsters (and Elises) around here, I can say that car is practically an oval from the top-down view, much the same as the \Volt looks that way, too.
I will say I am totally disappointed that there are door handles, though, after not seeing any in the transformers video.
It’s weird, but it seems to take cues from the Eclipse/Talon from about 10 years ago. The ’95-96 Turbo eclipses had gunmetal skirting to indicate their turbo-ness (apparently, that makes sense in the Japanse market. I don’t think that connection was obvious to anybody else). All colors of Talon Tsi had black roofs. Anyway, the Volt is rounded kind of like them, too, although in a way that looks liike a six footers can fit in, even in the back, which those others definitely couldn’t do (I own a ’96 Eclipse GSX, amongst other things).
Living in an area where I see a LOT of Priuses (Silicon Valley), I don’t think it looks like a Prius. I think it looks like a current model Civic. Which is good. The current model Civic looks great.
I’m still curious about that dark roof. What is it? They wouldn’t have been crazy enough to just paint it black to absorb heat and make the car hard to cool, would they? It has to be either some kind of integrated sunroof/moonroof or a solar panel. A big honkin’ moonroof would be very nice, I’d totally put up with the extra heat for that. And it would be keeping with one of the cues from the Concept as well.
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:56 pm)To all the guys who were going to buy this car based on the looks i say:
Thanks!!!!!
I’m moving up on the list every day.
Some poster said:
“but I think GM’s ace in the hole just turned out to be another Hummer.”
I’m sure they only hope this turns out to be as profitable as the hummer!
This car looks great. Nothing like an aero bubble. Reminds me of a rounded off Acura TSX.
Hatchback…. Okay, ill deal with it.
Sign me up at anything under 40K (assuming fed tax rebates of 7500)
Sep 8th, 2008 (3:56 pm)I’d disappointed. It looks like a Civic Hybrid mated with a Prius.
The concept looked almost like the new Camero. Concepts always get watered down but this is pretty drastic.
Ah who am I kidding, I’d still buy one.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:01 pm)I agree with Ed- and I’m a bit let down at the styling-I really loved the concept car, much more aggressive than this–can I at least get a spoiler?
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:01 pm)Just plain UGLIIIIE!
Nothing like the concept to me.
It’s even uglier than the GM Executives are.
I’m going back to probably won’t buy, now. If it looks tht bad performance let-downs are assured to me. So Sad guess I have to go to Japan again.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:05 pm)#22 DonC
Statik, you were disappointed with the shots from the Transformer movie set. What are you thinking now?
#132 Jean-Charles Jacquemin
Hey, Startik (?), Nasaman, Noel, where are you ?
——–
You must think I’m certifiable if I’m coming into this thread early, hehe. All I have to say is why would they take the Volt’s picture with Tony Posawatz? Tony’s sexiness is easily overpowering that of the Volt.
I took alot of heat for saying they were going to turn the concept into a Malibu-alike for the last dozen months or so. I don’t think this ‘official look’ proves me to be in error.
It’s a basic sedan…for 40K, that goes 40 miles electric. I’ve come to terms with realilty.
I have said this before, the car is fine as it is now. I have no problems with the general appearance of the car as compared to other 4 door sedans.
I just would have prefered they rolled out ‘a basic sedan design’ in January 2007 and not made with the ‘pretending to be true to the concept’ all that time…or even continuing to pretend now, when the car is right before our eyes. It is a different car…it’s a nice sedan.
So yes, I’m still not thrilled about it, but end of the day, I’m still buying it for the EV portion.
I will say this, it invokes no loyalty/desire to the brand for me. If someone else beats GM to market with another EV, I will feel no remorse over purchasing that instead and not owning a Volt. However, if it was the concept I was passing up to get the first electric sedan, I would be bummed when the day came that I saw it on the road and it wasn’t mine.
Long story short, I realize (as does GM) that any 4 door/electric sedan (sub 50K) is going to sell like hotcakes right now. But Volt 2.0 is going to either have to be alot better looking than this…or alot cheaper.
PS) HowDee Jean-Charles, I don’t see you around as much anymore…nice to hear from you
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:05 pm)Not nearly as cool as the concept. Not sporty-looking enough. I knew this would happen. Being a designer myself, I know that great visions become hampered when too many bureaucrats have their say. That grill is awful, along with that oversized air scoop and odd-looking skirt. This is a bit of a disappointment.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:07 pm)Those who are disappointed …What did you all expect it to look like ? A Maserati ?? .. I LIKE IT ! …. If the engneering is what has been promised ,,, 40 miles on a charge … plug in 120/220 VAC charge … and the price is competive with an ICE that gets 30 MPG …. We are ready to buy one. We are now driving a 1998 Chrysler Concorde with 36,000 miles on it. Get 21 to 23 MPG around town and over 30 MPG on the highway. We will keep driving it until the Volt comes out.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:07 pm)ahh… I think Ill buy a 5 year old prosche boxster with 20-30k miles on it instead. half price, faster, looks 100 times better, is a porsche and has no excise tax.. so what if It uses gas. oh well, gas aint going anywhere soon and california already can barely keep the electricity flowing to peoples homes without people pluggin in thier cars anyway. Maybe the next model will be more like the awesome looking concept car. Nice car for a soccer mom or gay person (sorry.. alternative lifestyle) though.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:08 pm)Bad photoshop work on that first picture. Note the area around his feet (where are the shadows?) and the area under his arm near the A-Pillar (flat grey? Are those windows drawn in?)
I’m *not* saying the car doesn’t look good, and I’m *NOT* saying that photos are outright fakes. I’m just saying that poorly photoshopped photos are annoying.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:08 pm)I like the look of the prototype car better, but if it still does what they say, I’m not going to be picky. I just hope that the price is right, and the gas savings is dramatic! Please don’t disappoint us! I’m waiting for my car!
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:09 pm)Beautiful! Has the current Malibu styling which I like.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:10 pm)Lame.
The concept was sexy. This is almost as ugly as the Prius.
-Thor
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:11 pm)Looks kinda smallish to me. Have to wait to stand next to it and sit in it to really tell. Overall it looks pretty good, though.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:12 pm)I agree with Shane. It went from “sporty” to “eco-friendly rental” in 7.2 seconds. The production pics have that rental car look to me. I’ll give it a chance, but I just got that “take my name off the list” feeling when I saw the pics.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:13 pm)You can take my name off the waiting list if this is the real deal… the concept’s aggressive styling had a lot of appeal. The “Green” customers they think they’re targeting with this design (especially the ones that would actually buy a GM product) don’t automatically swoon for Toyota Corollas… this is a design-by-committee, marketing-driven failure in the making. Sad… that may sound harsh, but it doesn’t even begin to describe how disappointed I am…
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:13 pm)#138 Gordon,
>> A little Photoshop to fix the grill covers and, “Voila!”
>> The nose. She is fixed!
Whoa. That actually does help. Quite a lot in fact! Nice work.
omatic
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:13 pm)It looks fine to me. But then I haven’t spent the past few years of my life bad-mouthing the Prius.
When compared to the Prius, it looks to me like the Volt leaves some room for aero improvements in order to get the sharper hood to front windshield and back windshield to trunk transitions.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:16 pm)I must say I’m not too excited about the watered down version. I’ve always disliked egg shaped cars. They never seem to have an indentity to them. You look at a solstice and you say wow. Now look at a ford aspire, bluh. I will still get this car if it can back up the economy claims but I won’t be flashing it off to everyone.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:16 pm)Wow, I’m a bit surprised at the negative responses. What did everyone expect?
There’s a reason a lot of these cars are looking similar (the Volt, Prius, the NEW Honda Insight). Can anyone guess what that reason is?
Of course everyone knows it’s because of aerodynamics.
I think the Volt actually looks pretty cool, not to say anything about similarities between it and the concept version, it and the Prius, etc.
Paradigm shifts require changes in thinking.
This is just my personal opinion, but I don’t think early EV-type vehicles should be held to the same aesthetic standards of what a Mustang or a Dodge Challenger might look like. Maybe in the future the battery technology will advance to the point where we’ll see electric Camaros and so forth with designs that aren’t necessarily the most aerodynamic. I hope so…
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:16 pm)Definately more roundish than the concept, but that was going to happen. I like it and will buy one. On the close shot of the Front, the Chevy Bow Tie sticks out quite a bit – would seem perfect to flip open for a charger receptacle. Or they could just have the bow tie sticking out alot on a very flat front end.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:17 pm)What happened to this?
http://www.thetorquereport.com/voltfront2-thumb.jpg
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:17 pm)Well, what is supposed to be the revolutionary aspect of this car anyway? What it looks like or the drive train technology?
Anybody thinking the don’t want it because is looks too much like a regular car?
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:18 pm)Boring! Same cheap-looking, plastic Chevy styling we’ve seen the last few years. The front grill is particularly dull. Looks like they’re copying the Prius. Because they’ve raised expectations so much, Chevy needs to be bold on this one, or the whole thing fails.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:19 pm)This was the first next generation environment conscious car that actually looked awesome, and now we have this “soccer mom” “prius” “corolla” “civic” abomination. Why can’t the environment have strength?
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:20 pm)I would like to comment on this statement from the article: “These are official studio photos although it doesnt seem like GM meant for them to break yet”
—-
I don’t think there is anyway they didn’t want to get these photos out ahead of the big party/reveal. They have gone all this time without even the smallest leak from inside the camp (which is/was impressive). They are just tempering the initial reactions, it’s not that uncommon.
There is just no way you have ‘leaked’ pictures that ALSO just so happen to have all the essential parts of the ‘Volt Team’ posing beside it like some kind of cross between auto executives and pasty middle-aged ‘mens’ calender models…
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:24 pm)I am dissapointed in the overall outline. The clay verson had a certain edge and muscle car look to it. This looks more like a civic that I can buy for 20 grand!
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:25 pm)What’s with the squared dip in the hood. How does that improve aerodynamics? If you look at the concept version it to had something similar but it looked like it served a purpose (back of it looked like it went into something) – air flow cooling or something.
Personally I liked the concept version looks – more Mad Max type of rugged look. But this version is good – it serves aerodynamics better and lets us acheive the 40 miles on electric alone. But nothing like looking at it in person to get a better perspective…
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:26 pm)Disappointing when compared to the pics of the spec car at the Detroit show.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:27 pm)Quote:
“This looks more like a civic that I can buy for 20 grand!”
I wonder how much gas I could put in that civic for $10,000 – $12,000.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:28 pm)I think GM messed up…in this day you can’t be a copy cat company and survive. The original Volt had my attention, this one looks like a prius mixed w/ a civic.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:29 pm)I like it! If any of y ou gauys who don’t are ahead of me on the waiting list, I’d gladly trade places with you. I want mine and I want it ASAP!
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:30 pm)#155 Statik – “If someone else beats GM to market with another EV, I will feel no remorse over purchasing that instead and not owning a Volt.”
I don’t think anyone would disagree with this. OTOH no one is going to beat GM to market. Not even close.
Interestingly enough I don’t believe BEVs, if and when they show up, are going to be much competition. Every woman I’ve talked to about EVs are all worried about running out of juice. It’s a big deal. Quite surprising to me. Until BEVs go hundreds of miles miles per charge or there is a system of quick charging available only the EV+ICE versions are going to sell in quantity. (Personally I don’t care but I have options available that others don’t).
One conclusion you can draw is that GM should change the grill. It’s a small thing but it really bothers a number of people.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:31 pm)I have to agree with the people who are not happy about the generic look. I loved the prototype from day 1 !! Were they just in too big of a hurry to retool for it and decided to go with something they already had with a few changes? : (
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:31 pm)This design seems to have sacrificed some of the unique sportiness of the first pictures we saw. Perhaps it has a better coefficient of drag, but is not quite as sexy as before. Nevertheless, it’s the final performance I am awaiting – 50 miles on a single charge to start would be compelling, along with a price around $30,000 and they would sell like hotcakes.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:31 pm)That’s not regular silver.
I want it in that color. What is the official name of that color?
Is it “Ice Blue”?
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:33 pm)This looks like a saturn…ew. What happened to that nice sleek front design that is in the small photo at the top of the website? That is the volt I vowed to Purchase…not this Saturn look a like. Not impressed at all.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:35 pm)Disappointed in the looks (still hyped about the car), but why did they have to vary so much from the concept If this is indeed new, cutting edge technology, why can’t the cars’ looks reflect that? The $12k difference in price over a Corrola would buy 3500g of gas and get you over 90k miles before that all important “break-even” point when comparing prices!
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:37 pm)Nice…..and it’s going to look a lot better in red. It is a bit tame but it’s still handsome. The concepts front end was ugly…this is an improvement.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:39 pm)Still waiting for the interior pictures. Hope they don’t screw that up. Not that the exterior is screwed up, but it does kinda look like my 1995 Honda Accord EX I used to own.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:39 pm)Times must be tough.
Can’t we get a young lady next to one of these?
I mean really now.
Guess SOMEONE needs to change their web page!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:40 pm)Still waiting for the interior pictures. Hope they don’t mess that up. Not that the exterior is messed up, but it does kinda look like my 1995 Honda Accord EX I used to own.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:40 pm)Wow. I am soooo glad GM toned down the Volt’s styling. I wanted something plain, something that would blend in with all the other cars, something so generic that it comes close to being ugly, like an AMC Pacer. And GM really delivered. No one would EVER notice me while driving my Volt. (And I am totally kidding).
————————————————————————-
I believe the same posters who say the like the “new” Volt are the very same posters who said they loved the “old” Volt a year ago. In other words, if GM put the Volt drivetrain in an AMC Pacer body, these same posters would be saying how great it looks, how much better it is than the concept Volt, and how they cannot wait to buy it. I just wish they would simply admit the truth – they don’t care what they Volt looks like, they just want one – period.
They feel that, no matter what the Volt looks like, they have to be the Volt’s cheerleaders, and tell the rest of us how stupid we are that we don’t agree with them. Yeah, if someone bows out due to the looks of the “improved” Volt, they “move up in line”. If as there was a line, as if GM intends to somehow use our “waiting list” on this website to hand out Volts in November 2010. “But I was number 44 in the GM-Volt waiting list !” “I’m sorry sir, we don’t use any list to sell the Volt. They have all been reserved. May I interest you in a new 2011 Chevy Cobalt instead”? Oh, the pain, the suffering, the disappointment – it will be exquisite.
I believe they’re afraid that if too many of us “concept Volt” fans complain too much, it will delay the Volt launch. They might be right – GM may realize that there isn’t a big market for plain-jane $40,000 subcompact cars, no matter how good the powertrain. The concept Volt would sell itself – this website is a shrine to the concept Volt’s drawing power. The new Volt – it may take more salesmanship to sell at $40,000. OK, a lot more.
Good luck finding your new plain-jane Volt in Walt Disney World’s parking lot, hidden among all the other look-alike cars.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:40 pm)Statik @ 155 is dead on.
This car is fine. It’s just not inspiring.
This will not produce any level of brand loyalty. This will not inspire those already brand loyal to GM to get real excited. It is simply acceptable. It will inspire those who wanted the tech, for sure. Maybe they were the target. I think that is the wrong strategy.
GM left the door WAY open for someone else to come in and steal the excitement/styling mantle.
Unless these pictures are doing it an injustice. The car is just not exciting. It is mearly “fine”.
Like an earlier poster said, in an interesting psychological observation, “if the concept was your screen saver, I don’t think you are going to redo it using this Volt”.
We’ll see……
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:41 pm)Isn’t this just an electric Malibu?
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:42 pm)#178 Kurt “I wonder how much gas I could put in that civic for $10,000 – $12,000.”
A few years worth. If you drove a modest 12,000 miles a year, and assume that gas prices are appreciating at a reasonable rate, you’d spend about $20,000 on gas over ten years.
But hey, with a 4 cylinder engine you could get really anemic acceleration. The problem with a Civic 4 is that, coming from even a small 6, the driving experience can be annoying. The Volt is going to be an entirely different story.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:42 pm)I agree it’s not what the concept looks like, its more of a Malibu design, but I like the Malibu. However I must say, I expected this, since it had to be modified for aerodynamics. But all in all, I think it’s a nice looking car. And if I can drive it to and from work w/o buying any gas Monday thru Friday, I’m buying it. Why, because when, I got interested in the vehicle, it was not total about the car design, that was only a hook, it was about a newer way of driving w/o depending on oil. Oil prices are still going up; if you fart they go up. I’d weather have a car, that I can drive w/o thinking OMG what is the price of gas today, or tomorrow. And as for the new HONDA, it still requires gas. I am sticking with GM, because no one else is doing this. Oh, I guess we have Tesla, but they already stated, there sedan would be around $50K. And there having issues with the transmission in there current $100K+ coupe.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:43 pm)What happened to the gorgeous design??
Now it’s just another generic looking putt-mobile.
Since half of the States and most of Canada is subject to extreme cold weather, I wonder how reliable the batteries will be….
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:44 pm)Based on thermodynamic principles that are not subject to clever engineering, I do not believe that a Volt will go 400 miles on 6 or 7 gallons of gasoline. Can someone explain to me how efficiency is gained by operating a gasoline engine to generate electricity to power an electric motor to propel an auto is more efficient than just running the car directly with the gasoline engine.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:44 pm)I guess I may have to hold out for PONTIAC’S version of this experiment to get something with some “energy”.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:45 pm)Geeeez.
It looks so cheap !!!
If theese pics are real, i suggest that GM rethinks the whole thing.
We need to have the agressive car we were concept, not this cheap-looking thing!
BY THE WAY THE CONCEPT WAS QUITE AERODINAMIC TOO!!!!!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:46 pm)I’m truly disappointed, I was anxiously waiting for the Volt debut. I had to get a car within the last month but only least it for 2 years planned on the Volt in 2010. Now I will look around until then to see what the other guys come up with. I wanted an electric vehicle, the Volt really had my attention with its look, now it looks like any other late model midsize out there with with after market add-ons, mho ‘ ~ ‘
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:47 pm)Hehe, the more I look at it, with the location of the headlights and the size of the lower intake, it looks more like a fish opening it’s mouth for a bite…
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:50 pm)#190 MetrologyFirst – “GM left the door WAY open for someone else to come in and steal the excitement/styling mantle”
This is exactly the question but it’s a meaningless question because on one is going to have a comparable product. It’s the Olga Korbut situation. She was the only one able to do whatever she did on the uneven parallel bars. Did it matter that she wasn’t perfect? Nope, because she was the only one who could do it.
This is somewhat the situation we have here. GM is going to have the only plug-in car with a decent EV range for several years. As shown by the Prius, you don’t have to win the beauty contest if you’re the only girl in town.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:52 pm)The original was much more aggressive and appealing. This one looks more like any car. Disappointing. Compare with the original: http://media.nextautos.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/gm-chevy-volt-lutz-intro.jpg
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:53 pm)I also saw a documentary on cable “Saving General Motors” were they said they had alot riding on Chevy Volt to revive sales and take back the Americas percent of the market,
Good Luck, Lutz
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:56 pm)Bring this beauty on the market as soon as possible.
Good Job GM
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:57 pm)You’ve pulled the old swithcheroo! It looks alot like the Saturn ION — a far cry from the concept car look originally put out.
Sep 8th, 2008 (4:58 pm)They should have put hubcaps on it to complete the total strip down of the concept…..if this is GM’s savior, better buy stock in Toyota!
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:03 pm)I really like the looks of this car. Then again I didn’t like the concept car at all – I thought it looked like it belonged in a comic book like the batmobile. I love the plain simple lines.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:04 pm)______________________________________________________
Good job VOLT deign team!
It does look very different than the original bold angular concept car. I would choose the more elegant streamlined production version if I could choose between the two.
But…Why has GM designed the front of the VOLT to mimic a standard ICE car (vis-à-vis a fake grill) when in fact the VOLT does not utilize a working front grill? I don’t know why this small design detail bugs me so much but it does. I think the VOLT would look more distinct, elegant, and advanced w/o the pretend grill.
I can’t wait to purchase my VOLT!
______________________________________________________
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:06 pm)Well by the comments everyone seems happy with the new look. None of the people commenting now are the ones that posted how worried they were about GM making it look like a fat 4 door Prius! To bad but now I can use my saved up money buy gas in a real car.
Take my name off the “buy” list until they make it look like a sports car again. Leave it to GM to put out the concept car excitement flame and bring out the vanilla pudding car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:08 pm)Boo! Where is the plug? The new design, juxtaposed with old design in the gm-volt.com logo, is definitely inferior styling (albeit perhaps a bit more practical). I was excited about the potential of the old design, but am disappointed to see where they took it. The new design leaves a lot to be desired, and doesn’t show much innovative body design.
I wonder if they kept the tinted glass see-through tailgate, but from the photos it looks like they did away with that too. Boo!
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:09 pm)Very cool. Good job GM.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:09 pm)I said to please hurry,hurry , I’m growing older !!!!Looks good, I’ll take mine in black.; also, please keep the price within reach of all of us who have been waiting with baited breath!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:11 pm)WTF??? I hope to God that this is someones sick joke. I was all set to buy a Volt untill I saw how cheesy and fake this socalled production modle looks. If they come out looking like this, you can count me out. I am very disappointed in design switch.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:16 pm)It looks a lot tamer than I was hoping for, but I have a feeling they want to appeal to a larger market initially then come out with another version with a more aggressive look and performance to match. Even so, I’m still wanting one.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:16 pm)With really only one angle shown in full, it’s hard for me to be critical. I wish the GM executive team had selected some other angles for these glamor shots. I still can’t see what they’re doing with the tail or the roof.
From the front, it looks more like a Malibu than it does a Prius, IMHO. And that’s good. I understand why those who wanted the original Camaro muscle-car look are disappointed, but I’m not. And I’ll be surprised if a sportier (maybe more Camaro-like) E-Flex model isn’t in process just behind the Volt.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:16 pm)well…its not the most futuristic game-changing design, but i still like it. it looks sophisticated, well-built, and pretty trendy.
its taken on a new personality since the concept was shown. the concept Volt had such a bold design that it even led some people to call it the “electric Camaro”.
the production model appears more laid back. its design is cool and smart. which is how it should be. if GM’s ultimate goal is the make the Volt an electric car for the masses, it doesn’t need to be an “electric camaro” because not everyone is going to want a bold “electric camaro”. if anything, that’s later down the line when GM expands the E-Flex family.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:19 pm)Since I’m making post number two hundred and something, anybody who actually reads it must have WAY too much time on their hands. However, I just have to get my “attaboy” in there. It looks great!
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:21 pm)Cool looking car I hope it paves the way for future electric cars like the EV1 shh lets not talk about that or the Volt might end up in the crusher. Love GM cars I should rephrase that I love American cars. I hope GM the company reshapes its customer satisfaction & puts the consumer first if & when problems arrise with a new model like the Volt. Trust me boys & girls I’ve been suckered in time & time again & GM does not care when you have a problem. Customer care is based in INDIA & all they do is open a case # & nothing is done. PS the photos are horrible like I need to look at a bunch of stuffed shirts posing with there new baby. GM is so self serving put a hot chick in a bikini next to the car or better yet put a photo of one of the guys on the line who is loosing there benefits while they put there all into building you a quality car. Yes I sound angry but I will still keep & love my old Corvette I will keep buying FORD trucks & my wife is totaly happy with the Chyrsler & how they address every issue & concern she may have but GM will have to gain my trust again before I reach into my pocket. I wish you luck GM & I hope you decide to change before it’s to late.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:24 pm)Just lost interest! Maybe GM wants to show that nobody wants this one…just like the EV1 they lied about.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:25 pm)That fake grill looks so terrible. The front of this car has no character at all.
It just looks bloated and plain.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:26 pm)I wish those people would get out of the way so we can see the car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:30 pm)Very dull. Looking forward to the European variant. If it looks anything like the current batch of GM European designs, it will actually be quite sexy….like this anonymous beta blocker should have been.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:31 pm)Randy Owen said…
“They should have put hubcaps on it to complete the total strip down of the concept…..if this is GM’s savior, better buy stock in Toyota!”
Good idea! Toyota’s electric-drive cars rule!
Wait a minute … Toyota hasn’t announced production of any electric drive cars. And come to think of it, none of Toyota’s existing cars look any better than this Volt.
On second thought, bad idea.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:33 pm)Nice looking car but it looks like the concept has been malibu’d and prius’d a bit. I still want one but it doesn’t seem to have the shock and awe I thought it would.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:34 pm)#181 DonC
Every woman I’ve talked to about EVs are all worried about running out of juice. It’s a big deal.
—-
Uh oh, you are in soooo much trouble!
….your lucky this is the internet where only men can understand how to use it and not the Weekly World news.
(=
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:38 pm)Wow this car went from cool and sporty as a concept to looking as cool as a Prius. Go figure. I guess the coolness was too air resistant.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:39 pm)IF:
This car can perform up to specs – AER 40+ and 50 mpg thereafter
AND
It RIDES well – better than a Camry – approaching a Lexus ride
AND
the interior looks better than a Sam’s Club
AND
Costs ~30K
then I’m in
Bottom line is that there are too many unknowns right now.
IWAS
PS It wouldn’t hurt if the acceleration pushed tears in my ears….
PPS Darn Gravitars (g)
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:40 pm)First of all….. OMG what did they do?
It’s a ok looking car…… for a prius!!!!!
they changed the car completly, i am way turned off to the point i might not even get the car now. I’ve been planning and waiting over a year and the suits gotta pull this.
Very disappointed! i really wanted that aggressive look and the moment i saw the Volt concept on photo over a year ago i fell in love with the car.
Apperance wise this could have been the car to bring us in the 21 Century stating that “we’re aggressively going green”, now it looks like any other car out there. The Volt concept Shouted that out to me but not this design.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:41 pm)#214 tBay
“well…its not the most futuristic game-changing design, but i still llike it. it looks sophisticated, well-built, and pretty trendy.”
That’s probably my take as well. It’s not as strong looking as the show car from the front, but the back and side looks just as good!
#125 Statik
“I will say this, it invokes no loyalty/desire to the brand for me. If someone else beats GM to market with another EV, I will feel no remorse over purchasing that instead and not owning a Volt.”
Here’s an EV that will be out by 2010. We can wave to each other from our EV cars. Well, you may have to keep both hands on the wheel!
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/10/14/mitsubishi-imiev-gets-20-30-percent-more-range-from-new-battery/
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:44 pm)I’m trying, I really am. I need to see it in person and maybe then it will grab me. It could still change a lot by Nov 2010 too.
Oh please oh please oh please.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:47 pm)#227 George K
“#125 Statik
“I will say this, it invokes no loyalty/desire to the brand for me. If someone else beats GM to market with another EV, I will feel no remorse over purchasing that instead and not owning a Volt.”
—Here’s an EV that will be out by 2010. We can wave to each other from our EV cars. Well, you may have to keep both hands on the wheel!
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/10/14/mitsubishi-imiev-gets-20-30-percent-more-range-from-new-battery/
——————
I wish it was out for 2010. Still no conformation at all on a North American drop date. (Not saying it couldn’t happen, Mitsu has been not only beating deadlines, but moving them up, which is pretty impressive in and of itself)
It’s out to the public in the third quarter in Japan though. In the overall picture I don’t really care where in the world these things get put out…just as long as they do, and start a trend. For myself personally…it pretty much sucks, hehe.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:50 pm)I was never interested in buying the Volt for its looks. I want to stop paying for gasoline. It’s the technology of an EV minus range anxiety that made me excited about the Volt. I also love the idea that driving less than 40 miles a day in a Volt makes it a ZEV. I can’t wait to breath cleaner air.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:54 pm)Why does production “Lame Down” a great design.
The best part of the Volt was that it looked like a Hyped Up Electric Camaro!
It lost it’s edge look for a more mild mannered driver.
Very disappointed.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:54 pm)I have to agree with Donald- this car is not even in the same league with the prototype. What a pity- seems only Dodge/Chrysler/Plymouth can get their concept cars built (with the exception of the Camaro, which is excellent).
What was so cool about the concept Volt was that it was exciting to look at and was a gas saver. Unfortunately, we’ll have to save our petrol in a car that resembles every other compact out there……
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:56 pm)I was really hoping they wouldnt change the looks much, because I wanted a car that would look amazing and unique while not paying for gas. Let me just say, it looks like total crap. It is not bold or expensive looking as an above user said. Instead, it’s prominent features have been rounded off and it looks really bad. Probably bad enough to turn me off of buying it. Sorry, Chevy, you broke my heart.
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:56 pm)I TOTALLY AGREE !!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:57 pm)Who cares about the looks…..
It’s what’s under the skin that matters…
But I do have to admit, I’m glad they dumped the white side mirrors..
Sep 8th, 2008 (5:59 pm)I know everyone is excited about the potential to drive around town on a ever ready, but this isn’t a 50,000 dollar car!! If it is then it indicates the state of change from oil to electric, only the rich will save at the pump. The poor will be buying up the large SUV’s at discount prices.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:00 pm)Hmmm. Well, not very sexy pics of course (with the dudes in there.) These look like they’re for the quarterly stock report.
You could make this car look so much better just with better lighting, a better background and cooler camera angles. I’m sure those are on the way.
I was one of the minority that voted for the concept style, which fell into the “it’s badass and we’re not screwin around” category. It may have inspired Volt car clubs like the PT Cruiser did (not that I’m a big PT fan.) I don’t think too many folks are going to personalize their Volts with this sort of styling. Ever see a pimped out Prius? Didn’t think so.
But what we have here is a very mainstream looking car, that for most people, won’t use any gas. You see thousands of cars that look like this on the road right now which means that there’s a lot of people that will like this car. But I doubt they’ll be forming clubs for it (not too many clubs for new Malibus, etc.)
So… Looks fine to most mainstream (non-car fanatic) folks and uses little or no gas. Bottom line, I think GM will have a hard time keeping up with demand for a long time…whether I like the style of it or not.
Oh…do I still want one? I’ll have to see it for real and actually drive the darn thing before I pull out my checkbook, but it’s a decent enough looking car that I would have no problem driving it and I get the “no gas” benefit. So, unless I see a better all/mostly electric car available when the Volt is, I’ll probably settle for it. Not because I really, really love the style of it, but mostly as a big finger to the gas station.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:00 pm)When I saw the first pictures of the GTO I threw up. When I finally saw one I was hooked and bought one (and promptly removed the wing which improved the looks another 100%).
So to be fair I will wait to see the real thing. I’m thinking the color is hurting it too.
Yes, I am willing to give up some level of looks for the sweet technology but at $30k+ I have my limits.
Someone photo-shop it in white, black, Chevy Bright Red and Brazen Orange Metallic. Hurry.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:01 pm)Uh…. Coupe?
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:03 pm)I have been comparing the concept style to the production style, and though I liked the concept, the clear advantages of the higher profile production version are a winner to me..
I am quite happy with the looks… and being at the front part of the ‘waiting list’
*drool*
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:06 pm)Just my speculation but it looks like the charging ports must be under the Volt badges that are just ahead of the side mirrors. See the Bob Boniface side picture.
Anybody seen any hard info on this subject ?
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:07 pm)The production model would not have gotten my attention over say a Civic but it is more practical than the concept car. A mom would really have had a time getting little ones pinned down in the back. However I am not a mom and was looking forward to the sleek, mysterious look in the concept car. Maybe 2011?? No gas still sounds good!!!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:07 pm)Don’t understand why the production model strays so far from the concept, leastwise in terms of appearance. It’s a dissappointment, GM had a real winner, the first American plug in should stand out from the crowd, this will just get lost in it. I certainly hope GM monitors this site, and the mold is not yet set.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:07 pm)Not bad… it sure beats the design they came up with for the dash! The front end looks like a cross between the new Malibu, Acura TL, and Honda Civic Si. That i-pod looking dash they came out with certainly doesn’t go with the design of the exterior though.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:07 pm)I think it looks good. I’m looking forward to seeing it on video and in person.
You gotta keep in mind that GM didn’t want to take TOO many risks with the design of Volt 1.0. They didn’t want to make it look like an Aptera or the Mercedes Bionic you know. That would be going TOO far with modern, futuristic design styling.
http://oneworldnews.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/aptera1.jpg
http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/PeterPudney/France_2006/bionic.jpg
I’m sure that GM will have other E-Flex cars coming out in the next 5-10 years that will have just the style that people want. Larger sized cars that look like the latest sports sedan from BMW and maybe a few that look like the Corvette or Camaro might already be in development for model year 2013 or something.
For this first EREV, I think GM wanted to get the Volt on the smaller “compact” frame like what the Cruze will have. It saves weight and all that. The battery technology is probably not quite good enough for a Malibu sized frame so they went with a Honda Civic sized frame. I think the overall styling reflects what people have actually been BUYING instead of what a hip designer at Ferrari would like.
Bottom line, they need the Volt to appeal to a wide variety of people. Not surprisingly, they want it to sell like crazy. Not too radical a style but not too bland either. Here are the best selling cars in the world: http://www.carbuyersnotebook.com/archives/2008/02/top_ten_best_selling_cars.htm
The Toyota Camry doesn’t look all that distinctive and stylish but they sure as heck sell … year in and year out.
http://savemoneyongasoline.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/07_08camry_hybrid.jpg
After this downturn year, GM definitely needs to have a huge hit and rack up the sales. I think Volt 1.0 will sell VERY well even if it’s not a super stylish BMW type sports sedan. Nobody could afford it if it did probably. I think GM’s exterior designers did a good job with the Volt. Let’s hope they do an excellent job on the interior and everything else too. The world NEEDS cars like the Volt to become dominant as soon as possible. It’s great to see that GM is out front blazing the trail for this new kind of car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:08 pm)How do I remove my name from the list? I’m sure there are enough people wanting to project their “green” image by buying a Prius’d electric car. I’m not one of ‘em. Give me the sporty concept!
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:10 pm)The concept was exciting. This is boring. It’s ok looking (not horrible) and probably the best looking economy car GM has put out in a long time. It looks suspiciously like the Honda Civic. My ’96 Chrysler Sebring raptop croaked and I needed a fun car. I was waiting for the Volt. Bought a ’06 Stang raptop. Needed the fun factor in a car. I understand the need to change the Volt for the aerodynamics, but to make it look like the Honda is really unoriginal. Very disappointing. The drive train will be what makes this car attractive. Hopefully the drive train will one day find it’s way into an original, good looking car. It’s already been said – but bears repeating – even though I want to buy American – why would anyone spend $40K on this when they can have a similiar looking Civic for half the price and still get great mileage?
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:12 pm)It looks like people are 50/50 on the “new” looks of the Volt. Does this mean 50% of the people are off the waiting list and I’m getting bumped up?
I, for one, liked the looks of the concept car better than what seems to be the production car. But it’s the guts of this car I’m buying, not just the looks.
Bring it to market GM!
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:13 pm)I think it looks good. I’m looking forward to seeing it on video and in person.
You gotta keep in mind that GM didn’t want to take TOO many risks with the design of Volt 1.0. They didn’t want to make it look like an Aptera or the Mercedes Bionic you know. That would be going TOO far with modern, futuristic design styling.
http://oneworldnews.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/aptera1.jpg
http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/PeterPudney/France_2006/bionic.jpg
I’m sure that GM will have other E-Flex cars coming out in the next 5-10 years that will have just the style that people want. Larger sized cars that look like the latest sports sedan from BMW and maybe a few that look like the Corvette or Camaro might already be in development for model year 2013 or something.
For this first EREV, I think GM wanted to get the Volt on the smaller “compact” frame like what the Cruze will have. It saves weight and all that. The battery technology is probably not quite
good enough for a Malibu sized frame so they went with a Honda Civic sized frame. I think the overall styling reflects what people have actually been BUYING instead of what a hip designer at Ferrari would like. That’s understandable if you are a designer at GM.
Bottom line, they need the Volt to appeal to a wide variety of people. Not surprisingly, they want it to sell like crazy. Not too radical a style but not too bland either. Here are the best selling cars in the world:
http://www.carbuyersnotebook.com/archives/2008/02/top_ten_best_selling_cars.htm
The Toyota Camry doesn’t look all that distinctive and stylish but they sure as heck sell … year in and year out.
http://savemoneyongasoline.files.wordpress.com/2008/06/07_08camry_hybrid.jpg
After this downturn year, GM definitely needs to have a huge hit and rack up the sales. I think Volt 1.0 will sell VERY well even if it’s not a super stylish BMW type sports sedan. Nobody could afford it if it did probably. I think GM’s exterior designers did a good job with the Volt. Let’s hope they do an excellent job on the interior and everything else too. The world NEEDS cars like the Volt to become dominant as soon as possible. It’s great to see that GM is out front blazing the trail for this new kind of car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:14 pm)GM made a mistake with the original concept car, knowing that the shape of it was a nonstarter if they wanted to maximize all electric range. It gave people unrealistic expectations. Listen, you can’t have your cake and eat it to. If you wanted 20 miles of BEV range instead of 40 you could have had the Volt concept body style. Range or sexy styling, you can’t have both. Blame physics. In a world of $4 gas do you want a car for show or for efficiency? If the former, don’t bother with a Volt. Get a Dodge Magnum or something.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:14 pm)I have read most of the posts above.
This just goes to show that you can’t please everyone, no matter how hard one tries.
I like the concept better. This car just blends in with the rest of the cars on the road. But hey, it’s what inside that is important.
The car is revolutionary and we sooo need it.
Bring on the Volt GM. I will definitely buy one.
GM engineers did so much work in so little time.
Good job everyone.
Edit: I thought I had read most of the posts. I should have reloaded my browser. This post was supposed to be number 110.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:15 pm)I would like to see the car without the hardlegs standing in the way. Personally I think the car is a little reserved looking. I would like the sharp lines in the body similar to the concept. Young and vibrant. This car while looks good enough to settle with, is not above charming. Looks like a chick mobile with the family neutral design. The color selection would have to get a little bolder. The pastels are simply too soft. I bet the back is chopped just as the prius. I wanted to see the design more undistinguished or related to the Toyota. I guess the design criteria for aerodynamics and efficiency will dictate the design.
Little disappointed but not enough to stop me from ordering the Chevy Volt. Needs out weight the wants these days.
I still say the mid east oil producers can EAT SAND AND SUX OIL !!
GO-VOLT
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:16 pm)What happened to the good sharp looks of the concept?
How about some shots without the suits in the way?
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:17 pm)I think it looks good. I’m looking forward to seeing it on video and in person.
You gotta keep in mind that GM didn’t want to take TOO many risks with the design of Volt 1.0. They didn’t want to make it look like an Aptera or the Mercedes Bionic you know. That would be going TOO far with modern, futuristic design styling with the low drag coefficient, etc.
http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/PeterPudney/France_2006/bionic.jpg
I’m sure that GM will have other E-Flex cars coming out in the next 5-10 years that will have just the style that people want. Larger sized cars that look like the latest sports sedan from BMW and maybe a few that look like the Corvette or Camaro might already be in development for model year 2013 or something.
For this first EREV, I think GM wanted to get the Volt on the smaller “compact” frame like what the Cruze will have. It saves weight and all that. The battery technology is probably not quite
good enough for a Malibu sized frame so they went with a Honda Civic sized frame. I think the overall styling reflects what people have actually been BUYING instead of what a hip designer at
Ferrari would like. That’s understandable if you are a designer at GM.
Bottom line, they need the Volt to appeal to a wide variety of people. Not surprisingly, they want it to sell like crazy. Not too radical a style but not too bland either. Here are the best selling cars in the world:
http://www.carbuyersnotebook.com/archives/2008/02/top_ten_best_selling_cars.htm
The Toyota Camry doesn’t look all that distinctive and stylish but they sure as heck sell … year in and year out.
After this downturn year, GM definitely needs to have a huge hit and rack up the sales. I think Volt 1.0 will sell VERY well even if it’s not a super stylish BMW type sports sedan. Nobody could afford it if it did probably. I think GM’s exterior designers did a good job with the Volt. Let’s hope they do an excellent job on the interior and everything else too. The world NEEDS cars like the Volt to become dominant as soon as possible. It’s great to see that GM is out front blazing the trail for this new kind of car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:18 pm)Why bother with a concept car (body) then produce a plain jane toyota look-a-like? I love the idea and may still buy one, but i’m disappointed by the bait & switch.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:18 pm)The smart money for GM will come from the aftermarket for this car. If they provide the ability to add to the battery pack, or offer more powerful electric motors, they will definitely hit the ground running. I know they’re going to take a loss on this car for a while. ‘That’ is where they can make up the difference. Got knows there’s been a pent up demand for a major manufacturer to produce the independent parts of an EV, If they’re smart about actually implementing it, they can make a killing, but I’m doubting it.
They haven’t been much on forward thinking for a while.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:22 pm)I like the car but not so much the male models?
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:23 pm)I think it looks good. I’m looking forward to seeing it on video and in person.
You gotta keep in mind that GM didn’t want to take TOO many risks with the design of Volt 1.0. They didn’t want to make it look like an Aptera or the Mercedes Bionic you know. That would be going TOO far with modern, futuristic design styling.
http://www.unisanet.unisa.edu.au/staff/PeterPudney/France_2006/bionic.jpg
I’m sure that GM will have other E-Flex cars coming out in the next 5-10 years that will have just the style that people want. Larger sized cars that look like the latest sports sedan from BMW and maybe a few that look like the Corvette or Camaro might already be in development for model year 2013 or something.
For this first EREV, I think GM wanted to get the Volt on the smaller “compact” frame like what the Cruze will have. It saves weight and all that. The battery technology is probably not quite
good enough for a Malibu sized frame so they went with a Honda Civic sized frame. I think the overall styling reflects what people have actually been BUYING instead of what a hip designer at Ferrari would like. That’s understandable if you are a designer at GM.
Bottom line, they need the Volt to appeal to a wide variety of people. Not surprisingly, they want it to sell like crazy. Not too radical a style but not too bland either. Here are the best selling cars in the world:
1. Toyota Camry: 31,601
2. Honda Accord: 23,957
3. Nissan Altima: 21,635
4. Honda Civic: 20,993
5. Toyota Corolla: 20,736
6. Chevrolet Impala: 17,544
7. Chevrolet Cobalt: 17,310
8. Chevrolet Malibu: 14,105
9. Pontiac G6: 13,942
10. Ford Focus: 11,600
The Toyota Camry doesn’t look all that distinctive and stylish but they sure as heck sell … year in and year out.
After this downturn year, GM definitely needs to have a huge hit and rack up the sales. I think Volt 1.0 will sell VERY well even if it’s not a super stylish BMW type sports sedan. Nobody could afford it if it did probably. I think GM’s exterior designers did a good job with the Volt. Let’s hope they do an excellent job on the interior and everything else too. The world NEEDS cars like the Volt to become dominant as soon as possible. It’s great to see that GM is out front blazing the trail for this new kind of car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:24 pm)This is my second post…. I really wanted to be a GM customer cause it was american and its GM but the cars they’ve been making haven’t been all that great apperance wise but after this i think i’ll keep my 08 nissan altima……
The way i see GM needed this for there company so bad and now they left an opening for Ford to come in and scoop up all the disappointed ppl with there verson (which i haven’t seen)which comes out in 2013…. hope Ford don’t mess that one up too!
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:27 pm)I’m shocked….a four door typical looking car…how boring….and this is worth waiting for??!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:27 pm)What a total disappointment! Where is the flared front? Where are the wheels? Almost all the “beauty” that made someone drool about this car has been removed! GM, you really missed it! In the future, do NOT “tease” the public with your “concept-car” and then “switch” and present such a “run of the mill” body style… with as much excitability as every other gas conscience car already out on the market. I guess I will now take myself off the wait list…
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:28 pm)First off, I’m happy to see a darker interior. My wife’s car has a lite cream color interior that looked great in the dealership, but looked real grungy after just a few months of daily (real life) use. Second, the faux grill concerns me. My first thought is, “What will it look like after 50,000 miles of freeway sand blasting?”. Will it come coated like new cell phone screens? Or will it be made of a material that will stand up to the frontal grit, sand, and gravel assault? Perhaps adding a coating similar to the front fork tube glaze being used on the new 180 mph motorcycles? Third, for $35,000 I am looking for a car with sizzle appeal. Although I understand the use of the 08 malibu/88 thunderbird/74 camaro roundness factor of the nose for fuel savings, I find the bluntness commonplace. I also find it somewhat feminine. Perhaps a Volt in gloss black will man it up a little. To conclude, this is a very nice first year offering for a post-lead battery power vehicle.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:31 pm)Hmmmm……it looks like everyother typical car out on the road today. Nothing about the design stands out like the original design did. I’d still consider buying one, but I’m not near as excited about it now.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:31 pm)Works for me. LJGTVWOTR!!!!!!!
#132 Jean-Charles Jacquemin:
Thanks for asking. It’s just been a really busy day. We are going racing this weekend, so race mode/tunnel vision takes over. I checked in first thing this AM, and this went up at about 10 AM PDT, so I just came in and saw it. 240 comments in 5 hours??? Awesome Lyle. It just goes to show how much interest there is out here.
I have said about 100 times that I don’t care what it looks like, as long as it gets 40 miles AER and 50 mpg on the “range extender”. I have also said that the wind tunnel doesn’t lie, so that there must be a common denominator somewhere.
Having said all that, It looks very modern and “form follows function” to me.
LVGTVWOR!!!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:35 pm)Wow that is horrible. Looks like a prius stepchild. ICK. Not even close to the concept Volt. Honestly, I couldn’t wait to get my volt but now…. I don’t think so; NO WAY. I mean at least my Hybrid Altima looks good. Lost my vote.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:38 pm)Just a reminder Toyota has tried to change the Pirius’s shape looking ordinary and it did not work. I will still buy this car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:39 pm)First thought: Show me the plug! You missed the whole point of a PHEV by not showing the plug, or at least the plug-in port.
Second thought: Never mind. Mine will have a flux capacitor and “Mr.Fusion” fuel port.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:40 pm)It looks OK, but not nearly as cool as the concept. Why is it that manufacturers always back off of the really good looking stuff for the sake of a conservative design. It looks like a Saturn and a Prius smushed together..
That being said, I was curious why the concept had such fat tires and large front dam, both not conducive to better gas mileage. I guess we are still planning on getting one. The problem is I think, the concept car LOOKS like a $35,000 car. This LOOKS like a $12,000 Kia. I know, I’m being superficial, but I had high hopes for this design, and this fell very short. It will need to be STACKED with standard options for it to work.
Americans are still Americans, and they want something they will be proud to be seen in. The Concept, Yes, this model….I’m not sure….
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:44 pm)OK looking car, but if it was ICE powered, I wouldn’t go near it for more than maybe $15K. So is the plug worth $25K?
Here in FL we burned 8,406,200,000 gal of gasoline in 2007 (2007 Florida Motor Gasoline and Diesel Fuel Report, June 30, 2008; Florida Department of Environmental Protection). I think it would take a LOT of Volts to reduce foreign oil dependence by saving 1 gal/day.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:45 pm)Ironic. Americans have been screaming for a 4-door, highway capable, fully-electric car that doesn’t look like an egg and THEY FINALLY GET IT.
BE HAPPY. THIS IS GOING TO BE A BLOCKBUSTER. GM, start taking deposits early and gage the demand.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:45 pm)Disappointed. Come on GM, form and function are why I have been buying GM for 25 years. If GM is going to look like all of the rest, I will start looking at all of the rest when I purchase my next vehicle. Sorry.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:45 pm)This car looks great!!!
For me to poop on.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:45 pm)Speaking just for myself, I like this design MUCH better than the concept. It looks as if it might fit my tall family in there.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:47 pm)Where do some of you guys see this as being a hatchback? There’s no frame around the rear window that would suggest this form, a la Prius or Matrix — I’m seeing a standard sedan type of boot. The black-colored part lifts up, with the opening split located at the top of the tail lights, running up to the fixed back window.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:49 pm)I am SO disappointed! I was looking forward to getting the sport car from the concept photos. Why on earth would anyone pay $40k for this prius-clone? I am for sure taking my name off the waiting list now.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:50 pm)Now lets see some production. GM just got a $50,000,000.00 US Treasury loan to develop EVs.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:50 pm)Just a world of disappointment again from the folks at GM.
Anyone remember the Buick Velite Concept, ya I was on a serious watch & buy for this car too but No, GM scrapped the idea after four years of development, so now you have to buy it from Lexus. Yes I wrote on a regular basis and the last note was rippled through the GM management staff, with how I thought the guys where chicken S*** to put something out there young or old would enjoy.
Looks like the same old crap, after looking at these photos, I wonder why GM didn’t just say they where going to make the Cavalier a Hybrid.
I was done looking, the Volt was it, done deal, now I’m going to be surfing for the car I thought I was going to get from GM.
Cheers,
Dave
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:51 pm)Way to ruin a good looking car. I was very excited to be possibly driving a hybrid that actually looked good. What a horrible, horrible looking car. Looks like an Aveo and a Prius had a baby. Yuck. Take my name off of the waiting list.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:53 pm)Just as expected – GM delivers something totally UNLIKE the prototype.
Hype up the prototype – deliver a Civic wannabe.
LOL @ GM!
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:57 pm)I’m amazed people are complaining that the looks have changed. We knew they would because the concept wasn’t aerodynamic at all. The reason the Prius, Insight and Volt kind of look that same is because the laws of Physics makes it so. Also, the concept had a roof that would probably wouldn’t fit anyone over 6 foot without hitting the top.
The last thing GM could afford to do is create a breakthrough car that has polarizing looks that only people wanting a “sport car” would like. Maybe Pontiac will have a sporty E-flex that gets less miles per gallon because it’s not as aerodynamic or more has more batteries.
Sep 8th, 2008 (6:58 pm)Wow…what a dissapointment visually. This is hardly anything like the concept. Unfortunately for cars sex appeal has a lot to do with sales, and even though the car “technically” might be great, it’ll be harder to convince people it’s “cool”.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:02 pm)OK, now let’s do a head count to see how many places we’ve moved up on the wait list….or not. Somehow I think that all these concept huggers will continue to post, albeit with a still great deal of wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Was anyone really going to buy, or were they just looking for a home?
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:03 pm)A car will hit the road in late 2010 that will have 160 HP and a low center of gravity with 50:50 weight distribution. Initial torque at take off will be really cool to feel and the car will be quiet. It will be one more step in the goal of helping the US break its dependency on oil (ie: paying into a system that funds nuts who want to kill us) and it will give some the ability to drive without gasoline. I will have my “powered by nuclear” bumper sticker. Does it really matter that, in addition to all of this, it does not look like a small Camaro? For me the answer is no. I like the concept of E-Flex more than the Volt Concept body style.
To me, it looks very similar to the cruze.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:03 pm)Why do you bother making a beautiful exciting prototype/concept only to deliver a ho hum basic boring prius wannabe… GM you suck for this.. Looks like my hope of buying domestic is once again thwarted..
here.. want to see what a car should look like..
http://www.teslamotors.com/
check it out GM and learn alittle something!!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:06 pm)Wow!!!! Just look what GM did. They took an absolutely brilliant concept and turned it into a “Pacer”!!!
American Motors… Who? The Volt… THE JOLT… THE JOKE.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:06 pm)No wonder why they will go into chapter 11 ! Someone who mutilates such a great idea does not deserve better.
40 grands for this ugly box?
I fired up my kids for the Volt, now I dont dare to show them what this is going to be.
T E R R I B L E
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:09 pm)I love all the naysayers here – that means the list will shorten up! The VOLT is all about being (hopefully for GM) the FIRST mass-production Electic Car capable of driving 40 to 50 miles on a charge. That is BREAKTHROUGH mileage with ZERO petroleum used.
The car looks sleek – and from most angles IMO it looks more upscale than a run-of-the-mill 4-dr sedan. No question it did loose some of the concept’s edge in the windtunnel, but if that’s what it takes to get the range, I’m OK with it.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:10 pm)What a downer – I was completely amped to go electric, but it seems like they have a team that took the concept and intentionally butchered it… this thing looks more like a prius than the beautiful concept they flashed around earlier… Good lord GM, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice beauty to make this thing work! Looks like I’ll be going with the Camaro – at least they didn’t botch that one up!
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:13 pm)I’m laughing at the response of the “fan site.”
Angular lines aren’t aerodynamic. Period.
Maybe they had higher hopes for an ‘electric camaro,’ maybe not; if they did, the Wind Tunnel spoke: and they fell silent.
It isn’t a bad looking car. It’s not the for-cheap Tesla that apparently half of you were waiting for, either.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:13 pm)Now that is one ugggggly looking car. You can have mine. I would rather pay the high price of gas than drive the smiling bubble car for a mere $30-40k. With such designs, it not a wonder GM is going out of business.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:13 pm)Well, they went and did what I feared all along. They took a great looking concept car and made it into a Mazda/Honda look alike. Why does GM hire all these fresh dynamic minds to design concept cars and then they bastardize it for sale to the public. I am VERY disappointed.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:13 pm)Definitely not as cool as the earlier versions…bummer.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:15 pm)Lyle, how about something in the site programming that disables the Gravatars for threads which run over 200 replies? I have to sit and scroll for a minute and a half waiting for all the icons to load, it’s really aggravating.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:15 pm)Hey, all you malcontents:
If you can find a better looking car, with a longer range, for less – you should buy it.
(Personally, I really like this one.)
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:15 pm)It looks like a cross between an acura and a toyota. It would be nice to see the car and not some GM big wig I don’t care about. I can see GM really knows what the consumer wants (barf).
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:16 pm)So much for the new outlet in the garage.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:16 pm)They had an opportunity to turn out a striking, trend setting vehicle and ended up watering it down to look like a larger civic.
The system is right, the packaging is way off. I understand the difference between concept and production. However, chrysler seems to hit closer to the concept vehicle over the last 12 years, why can’t GM?
Sadly, it’s still about the packaging and I guess toned down has more appeal.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:17 pm)Disappointed!
Looks like a Corolla, but I guess thats what it takes to sell it to the masses.I loved the prototype, looked like something The Jetsons would have driven.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:17 pm)Here’s what it comes down to for me (and I would guess many others)
I don’t give much of a rats ass what it looks like. As long as it doesn’t look like a big turd with 4 wheels I’ll drive it if I can get 40+ electric miles before the ICE kicks in.
With that being said; the less “turd-like” the better.
For all those folks who are “I’m not going to buy this because it doesn’t look cool enough to make me feel like it’s an extension of my penis”… well… get the hell over it and buy a different car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:20 pm)If that ugly thing ran on gas… who would buy it.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:21 pm)WHAT ??????????
Are you kidding me?????????
A revolutionary car needs a revolutionary design!
I don’t like these pics one bit. To me, it looks like a beached whale mixed in with every other compacted on the road today. The idea was to make this car look revolutionary and maybe even start a new trend for car design based on the specific engineering requirements of an electric/hybrid car…not model itself after every cheap compact on the road today. This is a real disappointment for me as I was very very keen on supporting Chevrolet in breaking away from its usual poorly designed cars, I really was (let’s call a spade a spade). That was even despite the ridicule I got from the people I know about even considering a Chevy. (I reminded them that Chevrolet also makes the Corvette and that they have the technological know-how from the EV1). But even more disappointing for Chevy, I was seriously considering not continuing to purchase European cars (a convert new customer).
This Volt to me looks like a modern version of the Chevette (now to be called the Chevolt) and its designers did not keep in mind the importance of the cool factor in market entry of a revolutionary car. Instead you made it into a cheap looking car for the masses, congratulations, like that has not been done before!!! Since when do the masses not want a good looking car? The Prius sells well in spite of its looks. I expected more from Chevy’s designers who have shown their ability to be a bit edgy and aggressive in their designs (something Toyota can’t do for some reason). The concept car was beautiful, aggressive in stance and needed only a few modifications to make it modern (like fixing the front lights)! I wonder, do you actually save money in making he production version look like that, why would you do that? Why?
A revolutionary car needs a revolutionary design!
If the car actually looks like these pics I will not buy this… There is a chance that the pics are distorting the true shape and lines of the car. So, just in case, I am going to stay open to the possibility that the real thing looks better.
What a load of bad news today, from GM…
PS The next car I buy will have 5 star crash rating.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:23 pm)WTF this is GD awful!! Why in the name did they drop the original prototype sexy look which was the real ‘pull’ to the car.
Although I think the drivetrain will be a good thing, the body design says Kia/Toyota/Nissan or even Hyundai!!! Come on GM, get off your asses and read the market.
I have never seen so much hype about a car prototype ahead of it’s time than the Volt, neither have I seen such a letdown by the the General.
What a letdown!!!!!
Lyle, take my name off the buyers list.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:24 pm)Is everyone who likes the look of this on CRACK??! This is such a huge let down. Granted it’s not as bad as it could be but where’s the innovative styling points they had in the concept car. Looks like GM is trying to play on the IMPACT success and send all these to the crusher in 5 to 10 years, claiming there wasn’t a market for them.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:28 pm)I knew the $40k Volt was out of my future, now I don’t feel so bad waiting for the car for the rest of us – the EFlex rebadged Opel – or can you say Saturn.
If someone comes out with an all electric with 150 mile range that is under $25, they got me.
If I can find a source for the Oasis batteries (supposedly twice the energy density of lead acid and not outragously priced) I will convert the old Bradley for around $10k.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:29 pm)I will continue driving my 1995 Impala SS. When I first saw the Volt a year and a half ago, I remember telling my wife “Now that’s a car I can get behind.”
Someone should give GM a corporate enema. This flotsam isn’t worth my time. To the people saying “Just wait for the 75k sports car!” shut it. My Impala SS was 24k off the line.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:31 pm)Someone wrote…”There is a chance that the pics are distorting the true shape and lines of the car.”
RIGHT!!! And those are hot women in bikinis standing next to them!!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:33 pm)Certainly not as kool looking as the concept, and looks much like I predicted. Originally it was predicted to cost approximately 24k, but now I am hearing 30-40k, is this true? If that is the case, there are other efficient vehicles that are more cost effective based on lower base prices and 35-45mpg ratings. I really thought GM was going to do it right this time, but it appears they have settled for a more predictable and boring design to cut costs, and an increased price to take advantage of the market. I may also have to look at the Honda and other options. I currently drive a 2004 Honda hybrid that averages 42mpg on my highway commute and only cost $19,200. Now at four years old, 80,000+ miles, and no maintenance costs (aside from brakes, tires and oil), I can imagine a $35,000 Volt can compete with that level of efficiency!
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:36 pm)Unfortunately, this is not even close to how good the concept version looked. I was hoping GM would keep the sporty design. I think it would have been significantly more popular!
For me, this is DISAPPOINTING!
GM count on one less sale.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:36 pm)Well well well….
Big surprise. I thought, here is a car company that has finally grown some creative brain cells and made an electric car that actually looks like a cool sports car and yet again the’ve gone ahead and completely wimped out and have made yet another boooorrriiinnggg sedan that looks like every other bbooorrriinnggg sedan out there. I don’t care if it’s electric. I am toottallyyy let down. I can’t believe all you slacks wearing, golf playing losers like this boring a#& car.
Once again another car company caves in to the boring, uninspired masses who can’t handle a F^&%$ing cool car design. Here’s another car you can go get your groceries with….
Yaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyy…
I officially hate the Vomit….I mean volt. I doesnt even deserve that name anymore.
Discusted
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:37 pm)It looks….like a prius with a body kit.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:38 pm)I like the sport one better. The concept looks better. Why not keep the concept sport Volt into a production look.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:38 pm)thats an ugly car what happened to the volt we were promised , this junk looks like a toyota i am not interested in this body style at all you guys are a bunch of bums,,give me the proto type you showed in the begining,,this reminds me of that lame g.t.o you guys ramed down the publics throuth,,,a holes
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:41 pm)Concept was way cooler. Sigh.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:42 pm)What the?
The Suits have taken over all that was COOL!!!
Get rid of the suits guys and put back on your jeans and t-shirts and build something that comes closer to the concept. Why do you think anyone liked it in the first place…the looks. It’s not like we were already driving them around enjoy the energy savings.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:43 pm)are there any spare concept bodies that I might be able to buy before GM shreds them? Anything but this!
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:48 pm)Could GM be releasing shots of a decoy design to fool everybody? Wouldn’t it be exciting to see the actual Volt released in the near future with a look closer to the concept or even more attractive. At this point, the 2010 Prius and Honda Insight are more attractive and more futuristic designs. What’s happened to the company that was so innovative in the design department with cars such as the ’66 Toronado, ’63 Riviera, and even the Corvair! Let’s pray that GM is hiding the real McCoy for a near future surprise introduction.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:48 pm)In 1964 Ford put a new body on a run of the mill Falcon chassis. They called it a Mustang. Obviously the “suits”… standing next to the “Volt” missed out on what sells. Wait… they weren’t born yet. Lee Iacocca!!!! Where are you!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:48 pm)a once beautiful car turned into a soccer mom, al gore, planet loving sedan, take my name off the list…………..
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:51 pm)can this really be the final design? why would they put a false grill in the front of an electric car? seems like the front design would be better if they removed the grill and give more of a slope to make it more aerodynamic.
also, i hope they would put a couple of usb slot in the interior for ipods, cell phone chargers, etc.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:51 pm)Maybe they should change the name to the Chevy “Scrot.”
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:52 pm)WOW! Sure looks like we have been invaded by negative people. Guess there has just been to much good news about this car. Sure looks like we have have some folks that do not want the VOLT to come to market. Its OK it will be a killer any way. JMHO
Take Care
Arch
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:53 pm)Loved the prototype… the production looks too much Prius like. The Challenger protoype looked 99% like the final version. GM has lured buyers again. A 40k$ car shouldn’t like a 20K$ econobox, electric or gas.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:53 pm)What happened????????
They should call it the Chevy Prius. I was ready for a futuristic powerful look and I get a … a PRIUS !!!!
Oh well… I guess Honda beats Chevy again…. : (
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:54 pm)Using yuppies and old suits are corporate sponsors gives us an idea about the price strategy. Don’t be surprised to see MSRP over $40k. Otherwise, you’d have seen flannel shirts and jeans.
Nice car – but looks like it’s pointed at the Lexus/Benz/Caddy crowd.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:55 pm)Not nearly as futuristic as the concept, and more important, no trunk to speak of. I think the trunk will put a lot of people off. Still, deliver it for sub-30K and they’ll bite!
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:56 pm)“…invaded by negative people.”…..? LOOK AT IT!!!! The before…. and the after!!!
HELLO!!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:57 pm)Very, very disappointing. Did they mean to go for the highly-generic Prius/Civic/Corolla/Taurus wannabe look? I was 110% set on buying a Volt after seeing the sporty version profiled by Tony Posawatz at the Detroit Auto Show. Not now, GM would have to give me one of these puked-out monstrosities, and even then I would be hesitant to be seen in it.
Sep 8th, 2008 (7:59 pm)Could not tell if a PV array was integ. with the roof, before everyone spouts off about not being much good, it would help sell the damn things!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:00 pm)I hope GM is paying attention to this thread.
Granted, this is not the most objective group, but there is something to be learned here regardless.
There are a lot of people who want a car that inspires them, is cool looking, and be something that people WANT to own, not HAVE to. Be EXCITING!! Driving does not have to be something we dread. The Volt was a unique opportunity to produce something that might really change the direction of car design. Develop some brand loyalty as a car company that took a challenge and really delivered something special. There is nothing particularly inspiring about this car, except the tech. And that was a given from the beginning.
I think GM was boxed in by the early promises of range. There is NO WAY that the designers would have had this as their ideal creation at the start. BUT the range promise GOT IN THE WAY!
So now, this is what we have. I just hope that GM will be bolder and produce a Pontiac version (or whatever) that is more inspiring and creative. Let the range slip if it has too. The point is a 30 mpc cool Pontiac still saves huge amounts of gas over every other gas engined car.
The technology huggers can have their Volt. Please GM, build those of us who want a more creative, exciting car something we can be proud of too!! And it doesn’t have to get 40 MPC!!
The world needs choices. And if you don’t do this soon, SOMEONE ELSE WILL.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:01 pm)Nooooo!
The concept photos were so much cooler.
I’m extremely disappointed.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:01 pm)lets see…. some 17 inch wheels, bra, tint… yea i think theres something to work with here
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:02 pm)Terrible, not at all like the prototype. I was really excited to buy one with the cool body style and futuristic interior. However, I already own a Prius…(thankfully my wife drives the ugly thing). Yet another dropped ball by our beloved GM…”generally mismanaged”
TM
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:03 pm)Noel Park #258 said: “Having said all that, It looks very modern and “form follows function” to me. LVGTVWOR!!!!!”
Amen to all of that brother.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:04 pm)Methinks the leak was on purpose. GM, Ford, Chrysler are looking for government backed loans. They are busting up on the rocks and its time to get that government cheese.
We better start drilling really really soon for oil because the 700 billion we are sending out of country is the hard place and the housing crisis is the rock. Alternative energy and this Chevy Volt will not be fully implemented for years.
Either way the economy is going to be really bumpy next year. I look for a stock market crash before the end of the year.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:05 pm)They are oooooh sooooo dreamy! Why did they have to put the stupid car in with them. Those nerdy boys just electrify my batteries. Want a real ride boys?
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:06 pm)Well, the production car looks nothing like the concept. The fenders, side flares, beltline, and rear were unique on the concept and none of that was carried over except maybe for some plexiglass in the rear.
I’m surprised how many people are getting behind the production version after people have been agreeing that GM better keep the concept look “or else.”
That said, I thought the high beltline on the concept made it look ridiculous and undriveable although others interpreted it as “muscular” and “aggressive.”
The production car looks pretty much like any other American sedan these days, so at least it doesn’t look asinine, but it doesn’t look unique either. Whatever, at least I don’t hate it because of the styling, I don’t need to drive a unique car for this price range… although at this price, you’re in the range of BMWs and Nissan sports cars, which I much prefer on a looks basis.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:06 pm)As many have pointed out, the concept it is not.
If ever there was need for testimony to the extremely personal nature of taste in automotive styling, this thread contains it. Euphoria to melancholy. “Sign me up” to “resign from the list”.
My view…”nice”, vs “cool” for the concept. But bottom line for me it is about the mechanicals.
I was suprised at those who thought this looks like the Prius. In my view, not even close to the jelly bean look, in significantly more creative.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:06 pm)As many have pointed out, the concept it is not.
If ever there was need for testimony to the extremely personal nature of taste in automotive styling, this thread contains it. Euphoria to melancholy. “Sign me up” to “resign from the list”.
My view…”nice”, vs “cool” for the concept. But bottom line for me it is about the mechanicals.
I was suprised at those who thought this looks like the Prius. In my view, not even close to the jelly bean look, and significantly more creative.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:07 pm)Hey Rocky, tell me your not trying to get us to believe the production version looks better than the original. I saw the original in person, and it was a work of art. I have to agree with many of the people here, this is a disappointment! It looks like a Prius. Like you said, Look at the before (at the top of the page) and then look at the uncreative Yugo pictured below. Personally, I have been saving my down payment, but now I will have to look at the other manufacturers. I think someone mentioned Tesla Motors earlier, I’ll bet their sedan won’t look like a Prius.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:07 pm)That’s quite a departure from the prototype. I prefer the prototype’s more beefier look. I wonder if the interior suffered in the same way. I might have to rethink buying one.
At least it’s better looking than a Prius.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:08 pm)And for those of you who say that we should have expected the production to not look like the concept, that is BS.
Look at GM’s recent production intent concepts.
The SOLSTICE.
The CAMARO.
Both of these concepts are nearly identical to the production. A bait and switch WAS NOT GM’s recent track record.
Something else got in the way of this trend and we all know what.
the 40 MPC promise. THAT was the mistake from the outset.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:08 pm)bah! Was I wrong in assuming the Volt was going to look much like the car in the top left hand corner of this page? This better have a kick ass interior cause the frame is looking very Honday Civic’ish. I had high hopes for the kick ass car in the top left. It may still win me over if it features everything it said it would do and if it were cost friendly.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:08 pm)The same people who bought cars and changed the oil when the lifters started clattering… the same people who are still forever running out of gas… the same people who ride around on “donut spares” will be buying this piece of junk.
You’ll recognize them by their “baby on board” signs and the volts they drive.
This car is just that insulting. Shame on you GM.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:09 pm)Hey Great !!!!!!
The soccer moms and accountants of the world haven’t had a new sedan designed just for them in about 5 seconds now…
Add this one to the list.
Oh ya. All of those execs in the photos look like a bunch of pedephile school teachers.
Congrates on failing yet again.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:10 pm)I can’t wait to get my hands on one!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:10 pm)Wow thats one ugly car sorry people look at the concept version & look at this, here we go again good ‘ol GM hying up a car & it turns out to look like blah! Think I’m bs I remember when Bob Clutz opps Lutz was on the Today show a few years back talking about the ‘New’ GTO his comments were “It’s a redesign of an American Classic” I said to myself CMON! I went out I got an Ford Cobra, I was waiting to see how this new Volt would turn out & telling my wife ‘We’re going green if this car look anything like the concept but again GM makes a PRIUS ! just like the GTO was a HOLDEN clone Toyota should sue GM. I’m going to get the Fisker Karma I’ve seen the test mule and semi production of this car & it looks like they said it would, how can a small company do it & also Tesla but not big loaf GM ???
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:12 pm)Okay-what happened to the GM exec quote in response to the Malibu mule sneak photos “The GM Volt production car will remain true to the concept energy and appeal”? Or words to that effect.
To those who think it looks new – I run a rental car fleet with mixed brands and the photos just shown looks like 90% of my current fleet which means I’m not impressed.
To those who believe function is more important than form – my 05 Honda Civic Hybrid has had me gritting my teeth with disdain since the day I bought it. And it only gets worse when I pass the two door versions of the same car that look 200% better than my econo-box.
To those who believe the design is a necessity of aerodynamics as opposed to the low lean look of the concept – please explain to me why the Corvette has such a low COD – or better yet – would this same car form above sell with a Corvette name plate on it?
To those who say buy a Camaro – I thought I was going to. The first thing I said when I saw the GMVolt concept was “Look honey, our next car! The looks of a Camaro with the economics of a “Green Machine”.
To those who think its worth $40k – buy all of them you want. GM will need the infusion of cash. If the price comes in over $30k I’m going to Torrance California and signing an order for an all electric Phoenix. At least then I’ll have a true EV to compensate for the four door utility look.
To GM Brass – thank you for staying true to your word on the Camaro. Too bad you can’t build the “revolutionary” GM Volt you promised.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:12 pm)Bruce # 336
uh, Bruce,,,,
Driza # 346
It isn’t a Holden clone, it’s Holden
I want to see it in different colors. Didn’t I order up some photo-shops awhile back? Geez, service today….
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:12 pm)Horrible, I am very disappointed this now looks similar to every other small sedan or coupe on the road in being GM’s try at the electric car they should have made it awe inspiring like the original pictures showed even more like the concept car we saw back in 2007. this to me shows no innovation what so ever unless you look under the hood
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:13 pm)Wonder looks and 40 miles all electric. I’ll take it.
LJGTVWOTR…!
I will see all you Volt Owners on the road. Cuz the time these cars get to the showrooms the price of gas will be at least $6.00 per gallon.
Take CARE,
TED
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:13 pm)I agree with Tim and I also have a Prius only I have to drive the ugly thing. Why can’t these cars companys figure out that when you make an agressively styled, cool looking car that attracts people…you don’t water it down to some lowest common denominator, every other guys car. Why do you think the PT cruiser was a hit…please don’t tell me it was all that Chrysler quality! Hey GM just make the one you touted out in all those auto shows! I would like mine in bright blue.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:18 pm)The prototype is what I want…not a re-styled Prius.
Gone is the aggressively styled car…something that I would look forward to driving. I will stay with my F150 before I drive that bloated Prius.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:19 pm)Ted, you appear to be the only person on the internet who uses “LJGTVWOTR” – what exactly is it supposed to mean?
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:20 pm)What a boring looking car…what a wasted opportunity!
If you’re going to design a revolutionary car with revolutionary technology, why not make it look revolutionary as well (or at the very least bold and distinctive)? This thing looks like a bland generic sedan that granny would drive.
Yuk.
The likelihood of my buying this car has dropped from around 70% to about 5%.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:20 pm)This difinitely does not look like a $40,000 car. I understand that there is break-through technology and that the car would save me plenty on my 80 mile round trip each day … but this???
I’ll save my $40,000 for a BMW 328. It wan’t save me the kind of money that this might — but I won’t be worried about plastic panels turning ashy after a year (anyone ever seen a 2 year old Grand Am? )
I’m hoping that the car looks better in person — after a pitcher of beer on a dark night maybe???
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:20 pm)Every VOLT comes with a crusty old white guy! What a great promotion.
I hope I get the silver-haired version.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:23 pm)This looks like the happy cars in that gasoline commercial. It’s not sporty any more. I’ll still buy one but I’ll need a discount cause the cool factor dropped 30%.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:23 pm)Everyone needs to calm down. You’re scared and confused.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:24 pm)I would rather GM produced the concept version with an improved hybrid engine that would give me 45 MPG vice 40MPC, and give it to me for less than $35,000.
Hey Scott, don’t worry, I am sure the interior has only the highest quality plastic and vinyl.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:26 pm)Yeah… what happened? I really loved the concept because it wasn’t another “cookie cutter” little box car. From what I can see, I can get a Malibu now and get nearly 40 MPG… What do I want to wait around for this for??? I’m so disappointed! This isn’t what we all signed on for!!! We wanted STYLE AND TECHNOLOGY! So…. where’s the rest?
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:27 pm)I am still pleased with the idea of the Volt, but what happened to that cool looking car that we saw in concept? I understand that some this might have had to change fo aerodynamics, but the windshield and roof along with the long hood and flared rear fenders made that car look hot. I think taking them away was a mistake. Now it has the same basic shape as all the rest. I want people to know I am driving a Chevy. How are they going to know that if it looks like a Prius?
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:28 pm)Looks like every other GM product I haven’t bought in the past 20 plus years. Guess I’ll wait and see what Honda or Toyota or Nissan are going to come up with. Sorry GM, I’m not paying 35K or more for that. Doesn’t look like slick concept car AT ALL!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:28 pm)WOW!!!
Where were all you people during the poll last week??
My fellow concept lovers … we got crushed in that poll and I demand a recount! Need a NEW POLL !!
It was a bit early, the T2 video footage was too fuzzy and the wording of the poll itself lead some people to vote based on the wrong criteria….
Like I said in #97 above, the death of the concept hurts…it really does…
I have been busy preparing myself for its death thanks to this site. We have been informed along the way that things were changing…it was going to die…concept designs hardly ever look just like the production versions…I fully understand how it works, I’ve loved cars since way before I could even drive them.
BUT this is a bit of an extreme case…the concept is not only dead but its bones have been stripped clean and its carcass is rotting all over the TV and on the internets (see banner at top) I dont want to see it anymore it hurts to see… just like old pics of that hot girl you let “get away” back in college.
I feel I would have been much better off having NEVER SEEN THE CONCEPT !!!
OK ok…hold on back to the mantra…
Its about the electrification of the car — not how cool it looks — forget the concept
‘repeat’
________
Statik #174
“I don’t think there is anyway they didn’t want to get these photos out ahead of the big party/reveal. They have gone all this time without even the smallest leak from inside the camp (which is/was impressive). They are just tempering the initial reactions, it’s not that uncommon.”
I want to keep with this line of thinking. I would cetainly think that if these photos were accidentally leaked on purpose that this very site would be stop #1 for the tempering of initial reactions…while I am a realist (as my mantra indicates) and I dont truly believe that we’ll get our beloved concept back ….maybe just maybe we can at least get a front grill re-design or some aspect of edginess to get slipped back in before official release….
NEW POLL Lyle….lets go !
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:28 pm)First it’s $30K
Then it’s $40K
Now they’re talking $50K
10 years behind the Prius … when will GM ever get rid of Wagoner & Lutz? The virge of bankruptcy, and these guys have taken a U.S. Plug-in idea only to outsource most of it to other countries. It that what they mean by, “An American Tradition” ?? What a pity.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:30 pm)I’m really sorry but I have to be truthful…
I can’t imagine being cooped up in that thing for twenty miles each way… each miserable day… back and forth to work.
If that car happens to sell, me thinks DWI’s are going to be on the rise.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:32 pm)UGH! Jackie Chan looks more like Brad Pitt than that looks like the concept car. I’m not sure that they didn’t take a 2009 Prius and stick a chevy bow-tie on it. If another manufacurer comes out with a plug-in hybrid at the same time, I’ll definitely be taking a close look at the competition.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:33 pm)Please GM … back to the drawing board and come up with something more 21st Century looking. This looks too much like a Prius.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:34 pm)Keep in mind that the is no way a $40,000 Scrot @ 40MPC can even come close to the value or efficiency of a $20-25k Hybrid at 40-45 mpg. Even if you save 2k a year in fuel, it will still take approximately 7 years to make-up the basic difference in base price alone. If your willing to consider a boring, cheaply manufactured GM product, buy the $16,000 Cobalt. It get about 30mpg for thousands less.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:35 pm)UGH! What kind of milktoast designers got their hands on that eye-catching, “can’t wait to have it car” and turned it into an ugly Prius stepchild. Time to re-evaluate purchasing one. I don’t plan to have children, so f*%k the environment…give me an 8 cylinder Camaro!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:35 pm)Oh man, that’s got Toyota Camry written all over it and has been neutered of any coolness. GM is so spot on with front-burnering this to transform their image, but how about a commitment to making the outside of the car edgy, too? Remember, these are early adopters buying a sporty technology product, not families looking for the most practical and inexpensive choice. This is GM’s chance to shine. This is their chance to bring all of us who swore we’d never drive an american car again back. Not looking promising.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:36 pm)Well I’m out. This is very dissapointing. I feel like I have been cheated on. Are these pictures a joke? I was sold on the look and idea of the concept. The idea of an electric commuter vehicle is not groundbreaking. A “good” looking sporty electric vehicle is. Perhaps the 70+ year old GM suits in the pictures think this looks good. I think they really blew it. Is there nobody at GM with enough courage to speak up in the design meetings? This design is the Emperor’s new clothes. Oh well wait another year or two for Chrysler or perhaps another company outside of North America to come up with a great looking design without the problems the version 1.0 Volt will likely have. Is it any wonder that the North American car companies are in trouble? How much did they pay the genius who thought of putting an electric motor in an ugly vehicle? If I wanted a Prius or a Gremlin I would already own one.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:37 pm)I’m really, really disappointed. I’d actually rather have a 30 mile range and have the exact original concept vehicle. It was exciting, like nothing on the road. Daring, bold, dramatic and had incredible flair and appeal. Now, it looks much like any other car most of the auto companies are making….rounded, bland, ordinary and so, so Prius like.
Good grief, the excitement we all felt has now fallen into the toilet. Yeah, the technology is fantastic but it’s not the sporty, exciting car that was envisioned. It’s now so rounded and blunted that it certainly won’t turn heads when it approaches you! I’ll wait to see what the other companies come out with especially if it’s over $30,000. Under $25,000, you might still get my hard earned money.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:38 pm)I guess I should have posted earlier it would seem alot more people are squatting on my side of the fence.
I said it before, if you can’t win the hearts of your home audience…it’s not good.
——–
I don’t know if anyone is still reading way down here but the ‘official word’ from GM on the ‘leak’ is this:
“DETROIT — General Motors Corp. blamed “human error” for the premature release today of production model photos of the Chevrolet Volt, the automaker’s much-anticipated, yet little-seen, extended-range electric vehicle.
Ten photos were briefly posted on GM’s media Web site, and an external site, and promptly picked up by auto bloggers around the world.
“Those were put up in error and taken down quickly thereafter,” Chevrolet spokesman Terry Rhadigan said. “It was not intentional.”
—–
There is about 4 people I think in the world believe this story. Someone, with full access, just happened to accidently put up ‘mission critical’ pics to the website.
They know they didn’t hit a homerun developing the Volt and they are getting the critical press out of the way now…giving the Volt a soft landing for the big debut at the centennial
Linky (Detroit News):
http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080908/AUTO01/809080428/1148
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:38 pm)#140 Zita, Copper colored (Sunburst Orange II Metalic). Thanks.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:39 pm)I like it. A pitch black one for me.
The comments saying how it looks to be in the same style category as a Toyota Corolla or what-have-you are true, and given that, I hope GM realises that car won’t sell unless it’s under $30,000. Even then, people will balk, given it’s style category, at any price over $25,000.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:40 pm)ewww. It’s a tin can. I’m definitely not spending $40 grand on that!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:40 pm)Looks like a honda civic. I wouldn’t pay 40k for a honda civic looking chevy. The original Volt actually looked original. WTF?
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:40 pm)It seems I’m pretty much alone on my view here. Bob Lutz said the Volt would be different, you will know it’s a Volt, etc. As far as I can see, it looks like 90% of the other cars on the road, from all mfgrs. I mean take away that it’s a Volt because you’re told it’s a Volt and I think you’ll have to admit that it looks much like any other car. I’m still hyped on the Volt concept, but the style? I’ll have to tell other people it’s a Volt because there’s nothing special about it.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:41 pm)I would take myself off of the waiting list it there was one. The concept looked amazing, but this looks like a Malibu. Boo to Chevy for getting my hopes up on an awesome new sports car!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:41 pm)Geeze that thing looks like the concept’s short plump cousin. What a disappointment.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:43 pm)If this is what it will actually look like, please remove my name from the waiting list.
Thanks
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:43 pm)Sorry GM, that’s not what I wanted. Look at the concept car posted on the top of the website and take a second look at the car posted in this article. Not even close. You want me to pay $35K or more for this? My consumer dollar will be going somewhere else. Maybe Ford will get it right. If not, I’m sure Honda, Toyota or Nissan will.
I was willing to go out on a limb before to buy another GM product after 20 plus years. You promised a cool-looking, modernistic piece of art with that concept car but this isn’t even close.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:43 pm)Wow, what a huge disapointment! When I first saw (and fell in love with) the Volt it was on public display at Pier 39 in San Fransisco last December, it looked like a cross between a corvette and ferrari and would have given the Tesla Roadster a run for it’s money, now the production model looks like nothing more than a sedan and it looks to be marketed as a business coupe by the photos. Well, if this is it take me off that waiting list i’m no longer interested!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:44 pm)Are you guy’s nuts?????!!!!! Are you looking at the same car as I am? Except for the name, …it looks like the concept how? This thing is butt-ugly. It looks like any-old economy car. The rear doesn’t seem too bad, but the front/side looks like an Accord-Prius! Even my 10 year-old was let-down when he saw it. I’d probably still consider buying one, but I won’t delude myself and say it looks even good! “Hold your nose and save some cash” should be its logo! Maybe print out pictures of the original and these photos and look veeeery carefully. They are not similar!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:45 pm)I personally am very disappointed. I was attracted to the sleek prototype, and very sorry to see the typical GM look that is very boring to me. I would not buy this car. I’ll keep searching for an electric car that excites with looks.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:45 pm)To those who believe the design is a necessity of aerodynamics as opposed to the low lean look of the concept, please familiarize yourself with the Tesla. Yes it is substantially more expensive, but it proves that you can have style, performance and electiic power all in one package!!!! 0-60 in 3.9 sec; 220 mpc, and 256 mpg equivalent. You can drive this for less that .02 cents per mile!!!!!
http://www.teslamotors.com/design/gallery-body.php
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:47 pm)I loved the concept. I’m bitter…. really devastated. Ok. BUT WAIT!!!
Maybe this is a GM joke and they’re just looking to see how many people truly love the concept Volt and when they unveil the real Volt that looks almost identical to the concept EVERYONE will flock to buy it!!!
YEAH THAT’S IT!!! Yeah sure.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:49 pm)If it looks like this and not the concept car, my name might just dis-appear from the waiting list unless they can get this car under $30K. I am not going to pay $40K for an average looking car, it better look more like the concept.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:50 pm)Can’t wait to get mine!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:50 pm)Fugly!! GM did it again. Take a fantastic concept and HOMOgenize it into GM blah. You must all be GM’ers for life. I’m taking my name off the list. I should never have gotten my hopes up. They do this every time. None of those execs have the guts to pull off something cool.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:50 pm)VERY NICE! I like this styling MUCH more than the concept car (which had that 1960′s “Car of the Future” glass-n-chrome thing going). I expected one of the stars of “Mad Men” to pop out with a martini in one hand and a Lucky in the other. This styling has a 21st Century look.
I will say, if GM wants to put electric cars on the map for good, they need to introduce their “electric” people to their “muscle car” people and come up with a kick-ass lightning-bolt to melt some ICE.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:51 pm)I like the look of the concept Volt better. This one looks like a malibu kind of. The aggressive look of the concept is a perfect match for an electric car. It should be a head turner. I wonder what the inside looks like?
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:51 pm)I saw the original concept Volt in person in San Fransisco last December – the car in these pictures is nothing close! If these are true pictures of the new Volt I believe the engineers responsible should be looking for new jobs!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:51 pm)#374 statik
“I said it before, if you can’t win the hearts of your home audience…it’s not good.”
True. But in my case, while I agree the concept looked interesting, I never felt any interest in purchasing one of those. This … this is a sedan and I’ve always been a wagon guy … considering that I’m not planning to replace my current car until 2012 anyhow, I’m hoping for a sport wagon or CUV variant by the time I’m ready to buy.
But that said … taken as itself … I honestly don’t see the resemblance, that so many are ranting about, of this to a Prius. I have two friends who’ve had Prius’s and this looks both larger (based on the first image with the gent leaning on it and of the one of Mr Lutz leaning on the hood) and not quite as smooth and rounded. This DOES seem, to my eyes, to have more “style” than the Prius. But that opinion is based on a few relatively low res images … I really need to see it in person before I can really decided how I feel about it. But that 40 mile AER is going to color that opinion. I can’t help it … it will.
One question to those complaining of feeling “let down” … when was the VOlt ever advertised as an “Electric Sports Car”?
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:52 pm)Ohhhh la-la. I want mine in Sterling Sliver, muy pronto. But give me a few weeks to sell an airplane.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:52 pm)I’ve been around long enough to know that concept cars rarely make it to production for some reason. This looks like every other boring car on the road.. the concept car was very cool.. what was wrong with that?. I think that they must look at what their tooling inventory is and see what they can use as “off the shelf” so they don’t have to re-invent the “styling wheel” and pay for additional tooling/production equipment as little as possible. I’m sure that this car will appeal to all of the “Green Nerds” out there, but I thought that this was to be a mainstream car for the masses??? (I’m not a tree hugger). Also.. looks as if there is no trunk space of any kind so they could save weight, which is understandable I guess. I appreciate Chevy being forward looking in producing an electric car.. too bad the outside doesn’t reflect the cutting edge technology they are creating on the inside.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:52 pm)Totally poo! No wonder GM is going down the tubes! You had the world in your hands! Who are the designers an execs? How could they live such sheltered lives? Are they actually PROUD of this?
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:53 pm)The original concept car looked like an old muscle car from the 60′s retro’s for the 21st century. This car looks like they dulllllll”Yawn”llled it down a bit. Sort of looks like a Malibu or anything else that is on the road right now. I would have stuck with more like the concept car. Hopefully the interior is more exciting and not Plastic Vantastic like for did to the Mustang
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:53 pm)Please get me off of this web site the car is as as square as the GM guys showing it. I wait for this please…… Honda Civic is not cool but it is $20k. guess we got to go global. got a friend that got a smart car cool and cheap
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:54 pm)I have to agree with a previous post I just saw. If these pics are foer real, and I’m sure they are, yuck.
Lyle – NEW POLE – PLEASE!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:55 pm)Can’t say that I think much of that silver faux grille. I would’ve much preferred a sloping hood instead. This is a boring disappointment. Count me out.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:56 pm)so by my unofficial estimate.. of a group of people who were all potential buyers.. 80% hate the car now and think its ugly.. 10% think its ugly but hey its electric so Im gonna buy it.. and 10% think this thing looks great and sign them up… lol.. if any other company did business like this.. they would be out of business.. I think they need to go back to drawing board.. even if it takes another 3 years…
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:57 pm)I HATE THE CHANGED DESIGN
It looks looks like a prius. I’ve been saving up to buy this car in cash when it comes not. That’s how excited I was about the concept car.
damn you GM. you deserve to loose market share. You have probably the most anticipated car in, forever, and you screw it up. At least you showed the public who was responsible for this rental car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:58 pm)One word:
WHINERS!
At least there are a LOT of you.
Tag
LJGTVWOTR!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (8:59 pm)Forgot to ask… is Farah one of the Farah’s from El Paso? If so, I need to look up some old friends from my UTEP and TV days there.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:00 pm)What a waste. Please GM! If you don’t want to make a nice looking car, then just sign over the rights of the design to someone who has half a clue!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:02 pm)I agree with a lot of writers on here that they really let me down with this differnt body style. I don’t get it. They had me at hello with the other car and now this. If I wanted a chevy malibu with gas saving componets I would have bought one and just did it myself.
I am really let down.
Maybe the specs will make up for it, but it would have to be echelons above the rest.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:02 pm)_____________________________________________________
I’ll say it again…I like the looks of this car…It’s a winner. Killing the pretend grill will take the looks up another notch.
As a proud American and father of two young Children, I very much appreciate the hard work the GM VOLT team has put towards insuring that the VOLT will make it to production by 2010. The VOLT will make America a more secure country. And it’s a very cool car!
The production version of the VOLT reflects the real world realities of high volume production logistics, aerodynamics, wider appeal, and the constant pounding of the drums by most of the posters on this GM-VOLT blog over the last year demanding a lower price point (less than 40K).
Again, Thank You:
Bob Lutz
Tony Posawatz: Vehicle Line Director
Andrew Farah, Vehicle Chief Engineer
Bob Boniface: Design Director E-flex
Tim Greig: Design Manager
And the rest of the VOLT Team.
Keep up the good work!
______________________________________________________
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:03 pm)I for one do not have my heart set on stroking my vanity by being seen in some exotic looking sports car. Maybe that puts me in the minority among all the annoying “me too” posts seen here today, but so what.
From the pics, the Volt looks like a comfortable, efficient small car with plenty of interior space, which might actually fit an American of my size (6’3″ tall). Of course, the real killer feature is the revolutionary electric drive train.
The original Volkswagen beetle didn’t have the look of a sports car either, but it dominated car sales for decades. I hope GM has similar success with the Volt.
Bravo GM!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:04 pm)[...] has pictures of the production version of the Volt. I like it. Actually, I like it a lot better than the concept car. var disqus_url = [...]
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:05 pm)It doesn’t look anything like the cool prototypes. I don’t want one now. It just looks like a dork car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:05 pm)WTF? What happened to that beautiful low profile concept design? You can drop me OFF the waiting list. I’m reminded once again why I shop ‘foreign’. Thanks for the let down guys.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:05 pm)Terrible. Not at all close to what the prototype looked like. Please GM, put out the prototype model, even a as a gas car – anything but the old-lady looking production one. Should I take my name off the waiting list now? – let me know. Maybe there is going to be a sport version? GM, don’t let us down!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:09 pm)#401 Tag
One word:
WHINERS!
At least there are a LOT of you.
Tag
——
It’s like my Xanadu, lol. (Just kidding).
————————
And a little more press on the ‘leak’
GM to Look Into Leak Of Chevrolet Volt Photos
DETROIT – General Motors Corp. is looking into the unauthorized release Monday of photos of the company’s highly anticipated battery-powered car, the Chevrolet Volt, a spokesman said.
“We’re looking into the situation,” GM spokesman Terry Rhadigan said. He declined to say what GM thinks led to the mishap, but he said the company doesn’t believe its computer system was hacked at this point.
Mr. Rhadigan declined to say when exactly the pictures — which feature various angles of the car and executives standing next to it — were to be released. He indicated the premature publication is disappointing to the company, but said “it’s just one of those things that happen.”
It is not uncommon for photos or details of a future vehicle to be leaked either purposely or covertly to media…Mr. Rhadigan said GM did not purposely leak the Volt photos.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122091000582611909.html?mod=yahoo_hs&ru=yahoo
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:09 pm)wow this car is nothing like the concept , my vote is a no way in hell to this
retro piece of shit , this car looks like a dodge avenger , looks bad . should of kept the cool sharp concept look , now i wont buy this crap from chevy . sorry for them .. go BANKRUPT ………………..LOL
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:13 pm)I like it!! They didn’t get carried away with the Prius “stupid” look. Hopefully, there’ll be other body styles in the future. A convert, a coupe and oh, please an El Camino. As a Chevy, I am hoping the prices start here on earth and GM doesn’t get greedy and price it way above Chevy’s mainstream customer base. I’m ready to See the U.S.A. in my Chevrolet !!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:14 pm)Looks like all the other egg shaped cars out there. Take me off the list.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:15 pm)What happened to my car?!?!?! Sigh. Please at least release the original concept version as a different model! wow, they seriously messed that one up. It looks more like the Malibu test skin they used to test the chassis than the prototype.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:15 pm)Looks like a cheap American car…. dont lie.
What happened to the concept with the nice lines and low windows? Goddam i hope they dont screw this up… This car SHOULDNT look like any other car on the road – cause it isnt.
Looking different will get it noticed.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:15 pm)so what does a new electric car smell like?
we’ll soon know.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:17 pm)Wow this is a huge disappointment. I was so hoping for the agressive styling shown in the concept car to compliment the engineering and future potential of electric automobiles. This car may appeal to some but this is really far from what what I was intending to invest for a new car. Thats too bad….it looked like something spectacular until now.
An electric car is not a normal car, make it look like the spirit that motivated it’s production.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:19 pm)Extremely lame look … definitely a GOP car.
P.S. Is GM trying to commit suicide?
P.S.S. I’m one of the 80% who will not buy.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:19 pm)This has to be a scheme to bury the Volt as a production vehicle and GM’s way of bailing out from the pressure put on them by oil companies. A write off for GM? Bought out with big bucks from oil producers? Can that be the truth or were they really that stupid to think that the people who loved the car are going to be stupid enough to buy it.
The business minded at GM… deal or no deal. Time will tell. Pictures “leaked”… A scuttled ship leaked too.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:19 pm)Wouldn’t it be cool to have a really sporty, agressive looking Electric car? I can’t say that it’s sporty any longer. If there was a waiting list, I’d take myself off!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:19 pm)Hey Tagamet ,
That is actually ten words and one acronym.
hehehe
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:20 pm)Well… its not bad looking. However, that being said… I (like many of the others who have commented above) would prefer that the production model look more like the concept car (in the top left hand corner of this page).
The next question is what will the car cost? and will the dealers be trying to hold-out for MSRP (or more?) or will GM supply enough of these in order to keep the dealers competitive with each other?
I hope its the latter.
Good Luck!
we really need to exercise ALL available options to end our dependence on foreign oil and this is merely ONE piece of a giant solution. But, a GOOD start, nonetheless.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:22 pm)I’m so dissapointed! I was really looking forward to a volt. It looks like your basic cheap little car. Why would they put so much effort into a electric car and make it look so plain? No style or anything unique about the looks. I don’t think I would want to be seen in this. I don’t understand why put all the time and effort into the electric car and then give up on making the exterior something special too. I would of thought you would want people to notice it out on the road. I would think you would want to maximize you sales, by making it a attractive car with new designed sporty exterior not something that looks like every cheap little box on the road. The concept car looked good and you have a few sporty cars out there, why give up on style? Maybe you should of made a electric like the soltice with a back seat? At least that is a car that does not look like every car on the road. How much do you expect people to pay for this looking like that?
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:22 pm)Check this out folks –> http://www.aptera.com/
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:23 pm)One thing is for sure…the gravitars are really getting me depressed in this particular thread.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:23 pm)I’ll have to make a photo screen saver out of the car pics for work tomorrow and see if anyone at GM notices.
If all the whiners knew anything about aerodynamics they would know that the most efficient shape for a car is a “puffer fish” shape. I think GM did a great job of making it look more like a car then the brick they started with or the fish they could of built.
It’s all about what’s under the hood!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:27 pm)well it does not look like the prototype i saw in the olympic comercials, It does not have that aggressive caddliac stanz. Looks like a scaled down Malibu and a big brother to the cobalt!
close to the prius with the new camaro DNA. just waitng for the interior and the price tag, hopefully below 25k with 75 mpg. silver is a great color for the first release,would like to see 16” or 20” wheels on it. rear soiler and ground effect kit. what about a coupe and a convertable? are they in the works?
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:27 pm)Are you serious!???
What a joke. The concept car was part of the mystique, now like the others have stated it is just another civic/prius/”fill in the blank” vehicle. No wonder they didn’t want this leaked out yet. Other manufactures are going to pick up where GM left off. I even bought stock in this company hoping for a big bump when this car took off. No way in hell I’m paying $30+K for this!
GM you have embarrassed your concept team and raped them of their dream and ours.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:27 pm)I must admit it is really nothing like the original – but thats not always a bad thing. I guess I am one of those few people that werent really turned on by the original look (reminds me of those early 90′s Arnold Schwarzenegger-TOTAL RECALL or Sylvester Stallone JUDGE DREDD movies, and the “” futeristic” cars they drove). But thats just my opinion.
Whats really important to me is the interrior, since thats where we spend all of our time, and of course whats under the hood!
This is a small step in the right direction (NO MORE OIL!).
Just my 2 cents,
Rappy
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:27 pm)Dear GM,
If your going to copy a small jap looking car, use the edger styling of say an ACURA TL over the family sedan. The costs of putting a little sharper corner in the metal panels cant cost that much more.
Signed,
One of thoese younger edger guys mentioned by post #371
P.S. I still plan to purchae the family looking sled though, b/c I want to help make those crazy people over their killing our guys/gals and eventually us all…EAT SAND AND SUX OIL !!! AMEN
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:28 pm)When can we buy one??? ME RICH ME WANT CAR!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:29 pm)I’m all for saving the planet, but what happened to style? This car should come with a free pair of Birkenstocks and a bowl of cold oatmeal, but what can you expect from a bunch of dud dudes who look straight out of the GOP – maybe they should call it the Bushmobile.
Seriously, though, why do all car companies take great concepts and turn them BORING!!! Not every woman is a soccer mom or a nun.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:30 pm)Sorry Tag, no whiner here. But no buyer either. Not this design at the rumored price. Most unfortunate; I thought GM was going to hit one out of the park. The first one to realize that you can marry emerging technology with cutting edge design gets my money!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:31 pm)“…gravitars…” ? “…depressed..” Go buy your Volt.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:33 pm)um.. yea I dont think I like this car anymore..I wanted the sporty look. If I wanted a car that gets over 50mpg and looks like every other car out there I would have bought a Prius, but Im in the UAW and want to stay American made. I was excited about this car, but am no longer interested. Bad decision GM, maybe next time. Ill Stick to Chrysler.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:34 pm)Hmmm… I not sure what to say. I have always pushed for GM to get the engineering right and worry about the lipstick later.
WOW! They listened to me. Maybe a little to much. This is such a plain-jane vehicle. If I saw it on the road, I would not even give it a second glance.
Are we sure these pics are the real deal? I would love an electric car, but please just put it in existing Saturn skin, and save your GM money (your gonna need it GM!)
Unbelievably plain car…no other words to describe it.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:34 pm)Check this out folks –> http://www.phoenixmotorcars.com/
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:35 pm)The concept was fantastic in its style…this is hideous.
I know they are trying to cut cost, but don’t do away
with the style. I think the Prius is ugh-o. I don’t particularly
like my honda civic hybrid’s styling either. I thought someone
finally got it right. Then, they got dummies involved.
I am sure GM management is reading this. Well, read this
a-holes. You had a chance to change, you had something good.
People were interested. Then you packaged it and tried to make it
“marketable”. We hybrid owners, people who care about the environment, we are ahead of the curve. Not behind it. You better find a way to get the concept car into production because this isn’t going to cut it. I am off the list. I would rather buy an old diesel and go the greasecar route if this is the route GM is going. Sell the stock. GM and AONE. Crap…so livid.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:36 pm)I loved the prototype – it had style and distinction and I wanted one. This thing looks like everybody’s little fat rounded no personality car. I don’t want this thing any longer no matter what the mileage is. I don’t think the gain of a couple of miles was worth the butcher job.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:40 pm)Boooooo! Why do the car companies come up with a “concept” then totally change what it looks like for production?!?!?. Honestly, the car is UGLY! The concept was mean, tough and cool. If this is what they plan on making, maybe my mom would drive it…not me..Totally disapointing. I would buy the concept, not this version.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:40 pm)I think this is a huge disappointment. I was hoping for the look of the concept car . You can forget the big price, to me this car looks like a low 20′s car. This car may have some appeal if they add alot of bells and whistles for the driver inside.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:42 pm)American ingenuity conquers the need to make war in the middle east and the need to pollute our oceans! Sorry oil companies; sorry Halliburton.
God Bless America and God bless GM! Thank you for caring about Americans and not just your bottom line. You will be repaid for your investment in us.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:42 pm)Ok, nice-smaller then I expected but maybe that is just the angle of the shot.
The back of the car a think has some nice shape and design I would like to see the front take on a look that doesn’t scream GM. My wish would be a smaller grill front, rounded safety fog lights to accent the front.. Maybe a touch more rounded curves to the corners. This is to bring in a future look not lend itself to the good ol’boy GM of past. Lets go fishing and land a champ. It’s not ok, to just be in the race, win it, take me to your leader. Don’t throw me a design in which that the man across that pound will just out do tomorrow. USA USA be my leader.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:43 pm)LJGTVWOTR:
Lets
Just
Give
The
Volt
Warts
Or
Two
Rectums
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:45 pm)This looks like a Honda Civic. Pretty Lame in my opinion. Just another boring car design for the freeway. What happened to the 2 door? Im sick of these companies coming up with cool concepts only to come out with the car that looks nothing like it. Cross this one off my list.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:45 pm)WoW, What a let down. If they are shooting for the pocket protector crowd well done. Boring……. Nothing like the great looking concept…
I guess they have to try to make everyone some what happy. No style too bad… I will probably start looking at the honda and toyota. They even look cool in comparison…. I would love to buy America, but this is ugly as my french bulldog but not even as cute.
Good Luck GM
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:45 pm)For those of you who still want to insist that it is a galent effort to produce a $50,000 Prius look-alike, take a look at what you can get for 35k more!!!!!!! I’ll wait for Tesla’s 40-50k Sedan. I have a feeling it will be SHARP!!! Check out the Tesla Roadster. Performance, style and efficiency in one package. 0-60 in 3.9 sec; 220 mpc, and 256 mpg equivalent. You can drive this for less that .02 cents per mile!!!!! Now that is HOT!
http://www.teslamotors.com/design/gallery-body.php
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:46 pm)Is that it GM ?!!!!!!!!!
I see, this mean to be a car for that old disabled people that need to drive an electric when doing shopping. Now they can do it with their family inside too! Hahahahahah
NOT EVEN MY MOTHER WILL BUY THIS!
A HONDA CIVIC looks a lot better than this.
What a big let down!
I’m out of here!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:46 pm)Looks the same as the leak from the transformers2 goof.. Is this still a fiber-glass body malibu? I liked the glass malibu, and I don’t think either goof-up was an accident, though they want you think it was, which is another subject.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:47 pm)Kinda makes the iMiev look sporty, don’t ya think?
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:47 pm)#435 Rocky
“…gravitars…” ? “…depressed..” Go buy your Volt.
——
Those are the avatars beside people’s names. The longer the thread gets the more annoying they become. Downloading hundreds of little pictures…and waiting for the page to stop jumping around.
I normally don’t mind them, but when you get really popular threads like this, it’s a little distracting.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:49 pm)I liked the original concepts shown on the GM site, but this doesn’t come close enough. They Prius-ed the look and have immasculated the design. I’ll wait until they come out with a strong looking electric.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:50 pm)I’m with you Statik. Most of the whiners here don’t seem to understand a damn thing about what it takes to put together this kind of truly game changing piece of technology. It’s all about the “Ob” the obvious to them. For all the negs out there, please post your pics of your electric, range extended vehicle that takes into account aero, weight, etc. Yeah, that’s what I thought. Hurry, the line is forming at Wal-Mart.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:50 pm)Holy Sh–.
almost 450 posts?!
Yeah.. I can’t read through all of those :p
It looks alright, I spose.
I’m not sure if its the angles or not, but the front seems realllllllly round.
It will grow on me, though, I’m sure
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:51 pm)Why…. did they change the car… I’ m so disappointed in the shape and style. It is no where close to the original concept. Are they nutz? You don’t advertise the original design all over the place on the internet and on commericals on TV and then come up with a rebadged Malibu with slight exterior modifications.
Take me off the list.
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:54 pm)statik get a frikken life
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:56 pm)Statik #411
Your post explains GM is concerned about the picture leak. I guess this means the pictures are accurate? Some of the other posts suggest the pictures are false to provide feedback for GM.
Seems you may have found the answer to many many people’s question today.
40MPC FAN
GO-VOLT
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:57 pm)I am absolutely sick to my stomach. I was completely prepared to shed my H2, which I love, for the Volt, but was looking forward to the concept look. If this is the final version I will probably not be dashing to the dealership to get one. I will reserve my final opinion for when I see better photos that show the profile more clearly. I hope they have not laid an egg!!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (9:59 pm)Intersting looking vehicle from the outside–kinda like many others. Nice of you to give all your white male designers/engineers/buff guys an attractive photo shot with the vehicle. But what does it look like inside? And seriously, only 5 white guys are working on this vehicle? Really? From the photo shoot, it doesn’t appear you’re feeling the need yet to appeal to women–of any age or ethnicity. This car better really be good if you’re going for the white male niche market if you plan to make it a success.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:01 pm)What happened? The original concept looked much better – this looks like a damned Prius. The original concept looked much more “American”… I will NOT drop $40K+ on this Prius look alike.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:01 pm)Ok. I took a breath.
I still believe the looks are plain to the max, BUT I do also still believe that main core of the Volt is the most important.
The best part (in my selfish opinion) is that many people will drop off the radar, and maybe both the availability and the price may come within my reach.
GO GM. Keep up the uglification and concentrate on getting the battery, motor and drive circuitry spot on.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:02 pm)I think it is a good looking car. Not flashy like the concept but that was expected by anyone who was being realistic. I was hopeful they could have made it a little bit edgier looking but I guess the windtunnels are going to shape these cars to close to the same shape.
I would like to see some unblocked views of the car from different angles.
I believe this is a much better looking car then the Prius and from what I have seen the to be released new Honda Hybrid.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:03 pm)To ANSWER THE QUESTION: TESLA ROADSTER: 0-60 in 3.9 sec; 220 mpc, and 256 mpg equivalent. You can drive this for less that .02 cents per mile, 100% ELECTRIC!!!!!
http://www.teslamotors.com/design/gallery-body.php
Quit talking abount whiners and pretending that the Volt is some kind of huge accomplishment. Go ahead with the other sheep and buy your $40,000 Volt. Sounds a llike some of you have convinced yourselves that you actually understand what “Game Changing Technology” is……The Volt does not represent even 10% of what Tesla accomplished with the Tesla Roadster. What is the Tesla…old technology that gave birth to the Volt? I don’t think so! Baaaaa Baaaaaaa!
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:04 pm)I am so disappointed 4 years I have been following this car because I fell in love with it iITHOUGHT that this car may save GM but NO it looks like an impala what a joke I had a savings account all set up with my money ready to go, not any more
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:05 pm)The more of you who go boo-hoo-hoo they made a car designed to sell instead of a whimsical concept, the less waiting list there is for me. Then again, this I personally don’t like the shown color, but put that in a deep blue (hate to say it, but like the Prius Spectra Blue) , bright red or crimson red, and its extra hot.
Get use to the “Prius” look too. Its simply good aerodynamics and there is not much way around that. Plus a hatchback is also always better than a trunk.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:06 pm)Looks good for an electric. Kudos. Hopefully has a great coefficient of drag to boot.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:07 pm)I will wait until I can see a side and rear angle view before I make up my mind, but right now I am thinking that I dislike it. I know that isn’t popular on this site, and, believe me, no one wanted to like it more than I did. However, the car has to be distinctive (in a good way) to really have any effect on the amount of oil we import. GM needs this car to be sexy so they can sell hundreds of thousands of them, and the US needs this car to be sexy so it will appeal to enough people to really make a dent in oil imports. We could all go buy a Smart car right now and make an impact. However, very few of of us would be willing to drive one of those; I am afraid the Volt might suffer the same stigma as a Smart car and that sales will be limited to the fringe environmentalists or activists and alienate the rest of us. The Smart car could be really good at solving our oil problems if only more people wanted them. Desire is key, and it has to be sexy for people to want them, certainly at the $38-40k price tag that has been suggested. I think GM got so focused on the coefficient of drag that they missed their own point. My wife and I could each get a late model Prius for what GM has suggested the Volt could cost, and our family’s average miles per gallon across all vehicles would be higher than if she kept her 5 series BMW and I got a Volt (as we had planned on doing). For the money difference, I believe I would rather have the Prius at this point, and the two look more alike than different. I would like to see some more photos first in the hopes that it is not as bad as I think it is.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:09 pm)Its nice looking but if your going to charge half as much as a Tesla Roadster if should look at least half as good
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:10 pm)i still want an e flex esclade esv
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:11 pm)The original volt looked like the upcoming camaro. This looks like a Prius. I couldn’t be more disappointed.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:12 pm)[...] New Chevy Volt pictures leaked I personally think it’s ugly — all these little cars (except the Smart) look alike: Chevy Volt [...]
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:13 pm)Lyle – NEW POLL – PLEASE!
1). Production VOLT (I’ll buy this one… much better looking…)
2). Concept VOLT
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:18 pm)Looks are important to a relative degree. I know many people who sold their cars and bought Prius after swearing they were the ugliest piece of crap on the road. After my second child was born I sold my Tahoe for a minivan. Although it looks like crap in my opinion, it really suits our needs. 28MPG vs 16MPG.
The VOLT will not be for everyone, but when gas hits where the towel heads want it, even the young rice rocket weekend racer guys will want a volt for the commute to work. Lets just hope time is on our side. Watch Fox news and see what the Saudis plan to do if gas goes back to 86 dollars a barrell!
GO-VOLT
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:19 pm)$30,000. for this! Not in my life time. Concept was hot car this is ……..
I don’t know, boring. I would give about 10,000 for this car. It is butt ugly in comparison to the concept. Sorry to rain on everyone’s parade but please that car is sad. I guess my next car will be a gas car with some style.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:19 pm)If this is a car for dorks, then I’m proud to call myself a dork. I never liked hanging out with the “high and mighty” cool people anyway.
Right now the only barrier for me owning a 1st generation Volt is the price. … Whatever it’ll be.
I really like the sleek design of the Volt. It looks so smooth, like it’ll glide down the roads and through the air.
I’m interested in learning about all the compartments. The size of the trunk, the final dash layout, and any other little tidbits.
I do hope to someday sit behind the wheel of one of these ladies and drive.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:20 pm)The car looks fantastic, but I do have to say I am quite disappointed with the pictures. I have waited my entire life to see gorgeous male models showing of cars instead of beautiful females and THIS is what I get. Come on!
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:21 pm)For all of you whining about shape, I wonder if you guys even read the previous posts on aerodynamics; if you did, you should expect this kind of shape. The shape like the concept volt/camaro sucks for aerodynamics. My opinion is they made the shape look more like a standard sedan than the Prius (ie. front end has break near windshield instead of being continuous, there is a notch in the back like a standard sedan) while keeping the aerodynamics close.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:21 pm)Just like always another fuel injected engine if you want MPG you need a new style inline air injection system turboed intake with a hot section before the injector and two or three venturies to cool before the mixture goes into the engine better MPG that injection but not quite the same power but with a single speed and a middle hefty fly weight it could get up to 100 MPG on the road . Pot Japan on hold for four or five years as well . But the current model wait to 2010 you got to be kidding !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
God Bless
Edwin Mang ( FAA , IA )
Blackwell , Oklahoma
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:23 pm)Come on, You can do better than this. I understand straying a little from the orig concept, but this is crazy. You know your in trouble when the car is partially hidden by its designers. Here we go again, thanks GM. You could have done a great thing here. Lets see what Toyota and Honda has up it’s sleeve.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:24 pm)You people get me to laugh (looks like a Prius) HAY over 1 million have sold to date. This is way better and my cash will NOT go over seas.
The most popular cars on the road are all ugly. Gm is in the business to sell cars and ugly sells.
The reason GM sales are down is because of perceived Quality well that perception is what they must change if they want to stay in business . They must let the customer know exactly how hard they test every part and suppler . These Toyota motors all need a internal belt replaced at or before 100,000 miles at great expense to the owner . At GM ALL motors are validated to at a minimum of 200,000 miles most can easily make it to 500,000 with scheduled maintenance . my olds minivan is at 268,357 and runs great and it is ugly.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:25 pm)GM decided not to strand people…so the opted for the gasoline generator. I too truly hoped they would make a 100% electric car. For urban/suburban drivers that’s all they need.
I may consider a Phoenix SUV considering they are the only company who seems to seriously consider today’s market.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:26 pm)Well I have read all the postings, what is the problem? It is a car. They want lots of people to buy them. It looks much better than a Camry and as least as good as an Accord. My only question is can I use my GM card points for the down payment?
I will take a Spring Edition Package in Victory Red. I also like style, I think a little chrome will do wonders for the car. My Spring Edition HHR gets as many comments as any other car I have driven. Also my Colorado reminds me of my first Tonka truck. I trust GM to do the job right.
Right now I commute 20 miles to work, at the end of the month I shall retire. Then I am looking at a job 40 miles away. I asked could I plug my car in at work…
Besides my own electricity producing windmill, there is a large wind farm going up in town. From my living room I watched them attach the blades to a 2 megawatt turbine today. I am ready!
Sure I want a Sporty Volt, however everybody is going to want a ride in it. Four doors would make it easier.
LJGTVWOTR!!!
Red HHR
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:29 pm)I loved the original sporty look of the volt concept car. That’s what sets it apart from the rest. Now it blends in with the pack. Take my name off the list. GM, your letting a good thing go. Not to worry though, I’m sure a foreign car maker will pick up where you dropped the ball…and laugh all the way to the bank. So much for me buying American.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:29 pm)#459 MaX
“The Volt does not represent even 10% of what Tesla accomplished with the Tesla Roadster. What is the Tesla…old technology that gave birth to the Volt? I don’t think so!”
Ummm … to MaX & the others who keep bringing up the Tesla … the Tesla can’t get me from my home in central CT to Boston and back in the same day without a recharge. The Volt will be able to thanks to the Range Extender.
If you want to spend your life staying close to home, then by all means, spend nearly twice as much for a much sharper looking looking car. There’s no way I’d argue with you that it’s better looking than the Volt we’ve seen. But no matter how nice it looks, if it can’t get you from point A to B and back … it’s less than useless, regardless of the cost or how “good it looks”.
#473
“For all of you whining about shape, I wonder if you guys even read the previous posts on aerodynamics; if you did, you should expect this kind of shape. …”
ummm … I think it’s pretty obvious that 75% of them have read absolutely nothing that’s been discussed on this forum prior to today.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:33 pm)Third post…… GM count on one less buyer…. im taking myself off the list!
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:34 pm)Why do people wanted bricks for car’s ?
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:35 pm)Oh Pleeease People! Why do you buy a car?
1) To get you from point A to point B.
2) To prove you’re something you’re not.
For those of you who take the more practical #1…this thing could look like a Pacer and it would still be a Best Buy! Round trip to/from work everyday for me is about 10-12 miles…so, guess what? I won’t be buying a drop of gas until I take a trip. To me, that makes it worth whatever shape the car comes in. I’m not a big Greenie, so the fact that I’ll be driving a ZEV most of the time is more an nice added benefit than a can’t live without requirement. But, saving ~$3000 a year in gas will more than make up for the fact that I’m not driving a Mazerati EREV…lol.
For those of you still wrapped up in #2…save up for your Mazerati…driving your net worth more than makes up for whatever is missing in your life…till you wrap it around a tree! Lol.
Bring it on GM! Can’t wait to drive Gas-Free!
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:37 pm)[...] am not as enthusiastic about the production styling versus the concept car… in it’s final trim the car is certainly not as muscular or [...]
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:37 pm)Very disappointed!! This car looks like crap! I’ve been waiting over two years and they put out this!! This was supposed to be GM’s best chance at coming back from the brink of financial disaster? I wouldn’t recommend buying any stock before the official press release of this egg. No flare around the front or rear wheels, ugly grill, short hood and isn’t that a Prius windshield? I knew there would be SOME changes from concept to production but please!
I wouldn’t pay even 25K for this thing much less twice that much!
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:39 pm)To everyone thinking “angled lines aren’t aero” – take a course please. Do you see the F-16 looking like a Prius? No. Lots of nice, sleek, sharp angles and curves. Oh yeah, it does Mach-2.
This looks more like the Airbus 380.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:41 pm)Need new poll Lyle…lots of interest goin on here…
How about something like this? (I’m a D tryin to be a C)
A) Nope, I’m OUT- this production version has turned me off completely, EREV or not, its just too ugly/plain for me
B) YES, love it! – like the production look MUCH better than the concept look
C) STILL IN – I only care about electrification of the car, not how cool it looks
D) ACCEPTABLE – Not blown away but its a nice enough looking car, I’m going to stick around
E) DONT KNOW – not ready to decide yet
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:41 pm)GLV Is an idiot (#482). There are more reasons you buy a car than some black and white definition. Love of the road, handling, fit, style, etc.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:43 pm)[...] debut in not to much longer off, but someone leaked supposed shots of the car. Check them out. GM-VOLT : Chevy Volt Electric Car Site Blog Archive BREAKING: New Full Production VOLT Studio Pictur… I might have to buy a Chevy [...]
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:44 pm)What the hell is this crap? They ruined it! They took a totally innovative body design and watered it down so that it looks like something my grandmother would buy. Worst decision ever.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:48 pm)Did you see what Honda is doing with their new hybrid. It’s currently testing over 60mpg and it’s going to be priced at $18,500. I don’t care if you don’t use 1 drop of gas with this Ugly looking volt(The concept was great looking); you’ll never save enough money on gas in 8 years to compete with this Honda based on the Volt’s expected price.
http://jalopnik.com/5045333/new-honda-insight-hybrid-revealed-expected-18500-price-tag-to-make-it-worlds-cheapest
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:49 pm)Well this is a true disappointment. I have the original design posted at my job…..I have been talking about this car non-stop. They should have kept the original design…..it now looks like all of the ugly hybrid cars. You have just lost a sell with me.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:51 pm)hey! HEY!! GET THE $#@% OUT OF THE WAY!!
I’m trying to see the %^ing car!!
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:51 pm)John #487 is living in a dream world… Sure, when you could fill up your tank for a few bucks and still have plenty for your bills, driving was a fun activity. Gas prices may have dropped in the near term, but with China and India coming into the Industrial Age, do you really think you’ll be able to fill your excitingly cool, fun to drive gas hog for very much longer? For that matter, if we continue to transfer the wealth of our nation into the very hands of those who have sought our demise, do you really think you’ll have the freedom to drive your gas hog around?
Come on people, the reason the Volt was conceptualized was to answer one problem…we are, and have been for over forty years, at the mercy of people who hate us. If this car, and it’s reduced use of gasoline helps us to ween our nation off the foriegn oil teet, we will be that much stronger for it…and we just might be able to retain the freedom that allows us to discuss this car so openly.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:55 pm)I have changed my mind. I realize now that I am being selfish expecting my $30k+ to buy something I want to be seen in. I feel so cheap and dirty.
I’ll buy one no matter how bad it is. But I admit, it could be much worse.
We need some better pictures before we claim GM has copied the BMW Issetta.
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:55 pm)Looks Fantastic to me … I’m getting my check book out.
Congrats to the entire GM VOLT Program Team for getting GM’s MOJO back.
(I long for the day when I’ll be able to review my monthly VISA statement and see NO gasoline station charges.)
PS: When will the Pick Up Truck version become available? (I still need to haul stuff every now and then.)
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:56 pm)More people are murdered by illegal aliens since 911 than have died in the war on terror.
By a separate accounting, more people have been killed in traffic accidents caused by drunk illegal aliens than have died in the war on terror.
This can will save lives in the war on terror but does nothing to help stem the crime tide from illegals.
So we add abreathalizer and a national id card scanner. Then you’ve got something
Sep 8th, 2008 (10:59 pm)I was more impressed with the concept design.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:01 pm)When I first saw the concept pictures I called my local Chevy dealer to see if I could get on the list to buy one. After seeing these pictures I guess I will have to keep my 2007 and 2008 Prius’s.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:01 pm)GLV (#492), quit compensating for living in the burbs. I love how you dodge the fact that there are more options to driving than “point A to point B” you egregiously defined in your original post (#482).
Now for a little bit of info and why I don’t live in the dream world:
I live less than 8 miles from work, I drive far fewer miles than most people. It costs me next to nothing to fill up every 3 weeks in my truck which gets 22mpg in the city (’98 s10), and I fill up my ’95 Impala SS every two months with premium. Oh wait, that’s right, my money goes to the American companies, I’ve never owned a foreign car (thanks to the values instilled to me by my Grandfather and Father). I only buy tools made in the USA. I buy groceries from a store that has local produce. I already do my part to try and reduce energy burdens, the concept volt would have been the icing on the cake for me.
All of the real auto designers moved out of the USA many years ago.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:01 pm)Not really what I thought my deposit would go for, I prefer the concept version, but reality says I’ll buy this one.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:02 pm)As far as looks go, I love the look of the car. Great job GM!
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:06 pm)You know, NASCAR, LeMans, F1, Indy, and every other racing series has waaay more money tied up in aerodynamic research than GM. Maybe they should have taken a hint from them.
You can make a car aerodynamic and sporty.
In fact, I’d like to see an aerodynamic comparison between a Volt/Prius (since they are the same car) and, oh maybe, a Ferrari.
Sporty cars can’t be aerodynamic? I’ll be Enzo would disagree.
Don’t fool yourselves, this was a decision that came down from the top. It was to please the idiots who were dumb enough to be fooled into buying a Prius. Time to remove the morons who thought this was a good idea.
Someone should email this entire list of comments directly to GM, and probably Tesla as well. Maybe it will help influence their sedan design.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:07 pm)When I first heard about the Volt, I was thrilled about the possibilities. I knew I wanted one. Then I saw the concept car.
I was shocked. It looked bloated (to use a word being bandied about today), cartoonish, and odd. It was even worse when I saw the video of it in motion. It wallowed like an out of control, over-sprung mammoth. In a word — ugly.
Then I remembered—car companies (including GM) never bring a car to production looking anything like the concept. So I bided my time.
I dislike the angle most of these pictures are taken from. I can’t get a true view of what the car really looks like. But I’m very encouraged. From what I can discern from these pictures this is a sleek, sharp, sexy car — far better that the silly looking, “batmobile” concept. I would be proud to buy and drive this car.
I can only hope that those that are threatening to take their names off the list actually do so, so the rest of us have a better shot at getting one sooner.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:11 pm)Too bad.
The concept car was very cool. I was impressed that GM was interested in developing a unique looking car and taking the kind of risks that create legendary cars. This looks just like another civic/ taurus/ egg. Another boring sedan.
Bummer.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:14 pm)On reflection I have realised this is a hoax.
Someone has photoshoped a bunch of GM execs in front of the car and posted them on the staff notice board.
The real car will be revealed soon…
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:15 pm)I cant believe they changed the look of the car, I was waiting for the Camero concept, then with gas prices all messed up, I saw the Volt and thought, sickly sweet and great on gas, who needs the Gas guzzling Camero, but now ?!?!? Why the hell couldnt you leave well enough alone. The original Volt design had everything a consumer could want and more. Now you have some wierd Toyota, Honda , KIA Hybrid thing going on here. I am all for the cars impact on our enviroment, but couldnt we be just a little sexier in it??
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:17 pm)#486 Murry:
My vote would be D.
I have been coming to this site everyday since early 2007. We finally have some close up photos of the production model. I guess I am a little underwhelmed …but it usually takes me a while to appreciate the looks of new cars. Maybe it will grow on me. I am looking forward to seeing the photos at the main unveiling. I may just have to buy a Camaro in 2009 to hold me over until a sportier version comes out.
Lyle …keep up the good work.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:19 pm)I am the first in Australia to have my name down for one, When can we expect it here?
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:19 pm)It looks like a Corolla….. I miss the look of the “smash mouth aggressiveness like the concept.” The Volt concept is revolutionary….make the car and the image match. You don’t lead by not pushing the limits.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:21 pm)it looks too feminine. i like the concept design better. i hope this is mid $20k. i wouldn’t touch it if it’s above $30k
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:23 pm)I think most of us here want to by an American car. But when American car companies continually make dull dull dull looking cars and when the Japanese and Germans make decent and exciting looking cars no wonder GM, Ford and Chrysler keep loosing market share. I haven’t bought an American made car in 20 years and this is the reason why. This Volt production car looks like what the Japanese were putting out 5 years ago! GM you just don’t get it. Stop making fugly old looking cars. Out Japanese the Japanese just for once! Make a modern looking car and give it some colors we want to buy instead of brown, black, burgandy, and white. At least Chrysler made some interesting looking cars when Mercedes bought them. The Solstace is a good looking car so we know you can do it. Just impracticle for married with kids types. Even Ford did it with the retro Mustang but the interior will make you vomit with all the cheap plastic they put in it. Know we know what happens to recycled Vitamin Water bottles. Take if from me. Take the designers and show them the door and redesign the car.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:25 pm)Well, like most cars today it is wind tunnel designed (meaning it looks like a suppository on 4 wheels). I know that the technology relies, in part, on a low drag coefficient but damn. Couldn’t you have gotten it a little closer to the auto show version?
That being said I think its better looking than a Prius and we’ll probably buy one as long as the dealers don’t screw us with an additional charge.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:26 pm)So some people on here want gm too buid a semi and sell it the public. The concept would have never worked in the real world. The car is not ugly, it’s very nice looking.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:26 pm)Disappointing! Take me off the list.
I was really looking forward to something close to the concept, they took much of the cool aggressive portion out that really made this car stand out. Better than a Prius, but not by much. At $30K range, looks like you now get what you pay for, I had such high hopes for a car in this price range. Going to have to consider other (higher cost ) options.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:29 pm)I am ecstatic about this car, I expected the first production electric cars to look wimpy like smart cars. These are actually tough looking–very American!
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:30 pm)OK, too many steve’s and Steve’s. I was “Steve” for the past couple of months, but now I’ll be Shaft.
It’s the 40 mile AER and the 50 mpg that’s important. Solid, reliable and consistent performance under a variety of driving conditions is important. Overall battery performance in the long term is important. Driving experience is important. Cost is important. Managing the perceptions about all the above is important.
This look will easily sell if the above succeeds. No need to satisfy those who fell in love with the concept look. I think the Volt design team pretty much got it right.
I do agree that the fake grill seems a bit tacky, and it doesn’t seem the same as the Transformer’s version. I’ll bet it’s not what we see in the formally announced version. But if it is, so what? Can’t please em’ all! I still want electric blue!
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:36 pm)I KNEW IT! Where’s my edgy Volt??? this is the puffy watered down Grandmother version. Looks like the fighter went on a beer diet. Not so excited anymore… I want futuristic and strong for 30k.
Most disappointed in:
1. puffy prius-like Glass canopy (windows are all chubby now). no low roof line.
2. a fat face round chevy front-end.
3. no muscular fenders anymore.
4. wheel design no deep any longer.
5. rear-end side profile now domestic and normal.
Maybe 20k…. but I’ll still ask WhY????
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:47 pm)I like the design…simple, classy & sporty. Good job GM!
I do not understand the many negative comments. Almost seems like the competion is on this thread throwing mud. I would be very scared of the VOLT if I was Ford or Toyota.
You can tell the GM execs in the photos are very proud of the car…as they should be.
I’m glad I’m signed up on the VOLT waiting list w/ a low position #.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:49 pm)Actually I believe this is the new Chevy Traverse which goes on sale next month. the traverse is spposed to be based off the Malibu Maxx design, which explains why it looks like a Malibu and a hatch back and no one can find the charge port.
I doubt GM after years of work would through out the Volt design and and suddenly go with a body that was mix of the Malibu/Impala, though oth are extremly popular. If this was the case, then why not just put the Volt powertain into both the Malibuand Impala lines? GM would be making a fortune and be the only compny offering 2 models with such technology.
I am surprised with how so many people want to see a red black or white Volt. It explains why when I was looking for a new car, every dealer was stocked up on red black, and white cars, and very limited grey, blue, green, etc.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:50 pm)Hmmm. Nice…Prius.
Yet another case of the Chevy designers deciding for me what I want, instead of providing something edgy and radical that someone would want to be seen driving.
Playing it safe like this is what’s putting American auto makers out of business. My mother might lease this car…after it’s been “pre-owned.” I’d have put down a deposit and waited for the Volt in its original guise. I wouldn’t even bother to test drive this thing.
Disappointing, to say the least.
Sep 8th, 2008 (11:54 pm)I agree with #516 Tmyer.
It looks good to me…fresh and sporty 4 door.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:03 am)Where are all the women? Aren’t women expected to want one of these cars? One of my sons is 6’5″ and still growing. Will he be able to drive it and sit in the backseat? Did someone say 5 door hatchback? I like a hatchback and the other 4 doors.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:05 am)You can tell this bugs me.
I went back and looked at the Transformers mock up and decided the pictures above don’t do the car justice. The photo angles and color is throwing it off (read: makes it suck). I would think GM would have noticed that. It’s a terrible color to use. Who would ever order that?
I think there is hope.
Anyone noticed the load time of this thread is almost the edit time limit? At least it is on 300 baud acoustic modem.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:11 am)looks ok, not as cool as the prototype though. what will the power source be?
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:12 am)Have any of the designers ever been out of the US? Out of State? Style…. They don’t have ANY. WOW, they never,ever learned this lesson. Go to Europe LOOK, LOOK! around. LEARN, THINK. It is probably, sadly way to late. Lack of style has killed the American car makers.
But really, This is homely. If I were 70ish and had a pocket protector and loved the look of an escort. I would be in heaven over this car. It is truly sad for GM and America. I love America and was wanting to buy the Volt. But, this is a very,very hard pill to swallow.
GET SOME STYLE……..
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:13 am)Hadd #522
Not sure. Rumor has it it’s an electric car.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:15 am)_____________________________________________________
….wife just saw it and said she now may want one. She did not like the “batmobile” concept car but likes this one because it looks “roomy and sporty”.
_____________________________________________________
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:18 am)These photos are definitely weaker than the earliers ones, and the color is very poor. I think the concept will still be popular, but seems like the final versions are always fairly boring from GM. The foreign automakers are much better in the style/design department.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:25 am)Another classic cool concept let down. Why can’t the car designers ever convince the production folks to keep the hard edges from the prototypes? At first I was torn between the new Camaro and the Volt, but now my mind is made up! If only I could afford the Tesla….
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:27 am)If I wanted to buy a car that looked like a Prius i would buy a Prius. I am very disappointed in the radical change in the look.
oh … I mean a Prius with a Chevy emblem
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:37 am)it looks like a modified prius! I wanted the concept car, DISAPPOINTING!!!!!!!!!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:45 am)What happened to the way it looked before? Why does it look like a Taurus now?
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:45 am)Can’t wait to see it on a dealers lot and BUYING ONE. ELECTRIC IS THE FUTURE. PRIUS OR NO PRIUS IT’S A CHEVY. LET’S SEND A MESSAGE TO THE OIL COMPANIES AND THE REST OF THE WORLD. LET’S RIDE ON THE ELECTRIC AVENUE IN STYLE AND WITHOUT BURNING A DROP OF GASOLINE. THANKS GM FOR RESURECTING THE ELECTRIC CAR.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:46 am)#506 – “I am the first in Australia to have my name down for one, When can we expect it here?”
You can have All of ours! This once great looking concept has turned into every other car on the road. You can have it!
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:50 am)I hate it. I wanted the low, sleek concept car, not a 4 door granny’s sedan! It looks like a cheap malibu ready to tip over just sitting there.
You can give mine to someone else. I’ll keep saving for my 2010 Corvette.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:51 am)Please tell me this is a joke! For 30K you better deliver the stylish cutting edge design that got everyone talking about an american car, and leave this bloated civic/taurus/prius remake in the GM junkyard. You obviously have a company saving design team, now get the suits out of the way and allow them to take this auto relic manufacturer where no car company has gone before. If not, you will most assuridly add this once great company from the endangered manufacturer list to the scrap yard.
And as for you smiling suits,better start putting out your resumes, just do us all a favor and stay out of the transportation business!
You guys look more like used car salesmen than corporate Icons.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:00 am)Looks nice. Hopefully they reduce the size of the rear liscense plate surround as it looks HUGE in comparison to the rear bumper.
And of course, make a sunroof option available.
Would like to see this car in black with chrome rims.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:23 am)I agree with the other comments 534 533 530 515 etc it has changed from the concept car design car to something that is not cool, cuttting edge, avant garde and ahead if it’s time. GM (guys) stick to concept, I repeat stick to concept car design.
It is a captivating car design and the future technology combined = sales if you put this one out shown here, it will be a disaster for GM.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:24 am)Wow! I guess I am glad everyone else likes it, kind of looks like my next-door neighbors Prius. I liked the front end SOOOOO much better on the concept car than on this thing. The lines were much more aggressive and bold. Yes I know it is electric who cares what it looks like… apparently GM did when they came up with the concept car. Guess they did not fair too well in the wind tunnel. I do not know why GM is paying so much attention to aerodynamics with this thing, most of the vehicles they have on the road today are bricks with wheels. This is just missing the Toyota or Honda emblem in the center of the grill instead of the Chevy. However, I guess that will make it easier for Toyota or Honda to retool when they buy GM and really put their emblem on it. By the time this car is released 2010 really? They really think they can wait that long. They should be retooling a plant to release next year. By the time this Toyota want-a-be comes out there will already be something looking like this in my driveway. I am very disappointed that they made such significant changes and are boosting the price. Let me know if the concept car goes up for sale because that was what I was waiting for.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:24 am)Way to recycle the leftover body stamping equipment from Buick and Chevy. Excellent use of cheap low strength steel and square, klutzy, minimal deflection stampings. Net out, Volt style sucks the chrome off a bumper hitch. I shudder to ask where GM cut corners on mechanicals after seeing such low class body work. Small wonder Kia outsells every GM brand except Chevy. Volt won’t help.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:27 am)is this the saloon version? it better be, it looks like the ugly sister.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:37 am)I have been an avid student of the comments on this website since I placed my name on the waiting list at about 20,000, and I must say, I appreciate reading everyone’s thoughts.
It has kept an honest and personal approach to this project.
I’m glad to hear at the end of the day, you all appreciate this vehicle for what it truly is.
THE Game Changer. Nothing new, but a bold statement to the powers that be in this day and age.
War. Terrorism. Economic Depression. Natural Disaster.
Just a few things that surround dependency on oil.
Think about it.
Now, think about it again….
GM is thinking as well……
And because of it, GM is about to land on the moon first.
Wrap your head around everything an electric car will do, beyond your personal interests.
So many problems solved, such a better world.
This is just the beginning my friends, and it would be poetic justice against so many tragedies if this revolution started in our own back yards.
Go GM. Go Volt. Go America.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:38 am)GM dropped the ball AGAIN! I was interested in the concept car but I’d be embarrassed to drive this one. I was hoping the huy American but I guess that idea is out the window. The only way US carmakers will get it is to move out of Michigan to the West Coast and see what is selling here.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:43 am)If I wanted a car that looked like a honda civic then thats what I would buy. I wanted the car that looks like the Chevy Volt. It used to look like a cammero of sorts. Now it’s looks like an economy car. Take me off the list for this GM fumble, as if they don’t make enough marketing mistakes. Did anybody really expected them to produce what they displayed?
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:57 am)For those people bringing up F-16s?, NASCAR, LeMans, F1, Indy, Ferraris, I urge you to count how many people they can seat inside and how many doors they have. Also look at its length and height. With no concern for passenger volume and easy passenger entry, of course you can make a car look sporty and have low CD, especially when you can have the car long and low enough for the proportions to look good. However, the Volt is supposed to be both efficient and practical while being based on a small 4-door platform. So far the only normal looking small 4-door with Cd .27 or less is the W203 C-Class (previous gen one). The other small 4-doors with that low…the Toyota Prius, the Civic Hybrid (similar to Prius shape), the Audi A2, (again similar to a Prius in shape), and soon to join them, the new 2010 Honda Insight which, drum roll please, … also looks like the Prius in shape. I don’t think this is by pure coincidence; there must be something aerodynamically advantageous about this shape. If the Volt was a longer car, at least mid-sized, then probably you can make a 4-door car that looks both sporty and has good Cd (examples: the G35, new Mazda6) but in a small car, you are limited in what you can do.
Please correct me, if you can find other small 4-doors that are this low in drag coefficient and yet look very sporty.
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:05 am)For all the whiners… it’s obvious that the flat-faced concept vehicle wouldn’t have had good aerodynamics and “fuel” economy.
I’m sure that as time goes on and batteries improve, manufacturers will be able to justify building non-aerodynamic cars that appeal to those who believe in the mantra “function follows form”. This isn’t really the time.
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:11 am)Agree that the front faux-grille should be changed to solid and the side mirrors must pivot. Otherwise, the car looks like a typical mid-size sedan with very good fit & finish.
If the performance and fuel specs are substantially better than the plug-in prius, people will pay for it.
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:32 am)Congratulations GM on the finished design!
Although not the real show stopper initially introduced, you have designed a vehicle that should sell extremely well. After all, the real revolutionary components is the fact that the car runs totally on electricity.
I can”t tell but it appears that the rear hatch (where the Chevy symbol and the Volt logo is applied) is glass which should improve visibility, if so, then the rear edge will shield headlights from cars in the rear from beaming directly into the Driver’s eyes–a minor but welcome attribute.
My next thoughts are:
1) How quiet is the interior, will there be enough noise insulation?
2) Will the suspension system make the Volt a joy to drive?
3) Will the Air Conditioning system be robust enough in 110 degree summer heat (Arizona, Nevada, Texas, etc.) and Cimate Controlled?
4) Will the Volt have a “Keyless” entry system?
5) Is the Volt reliable enough to withstand daily (hard) driving, even on rural dirt roads?
So far, In my opinion, GM appears to be doing everything right.
I agree with another comment stating that GM should offer a two-tier pricing plan whereby the Volt should be sold with a standard 60 month warranty as well as an optional 150,000 mile warranty. (The optional warranty could include the replacement of the original battery pack). In addition this optional warranty could assure future second owners who are interested in buying a used Volt, a useable vehicle, even if the used Volt’s mileage could exceed 100,000 miles.
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:36 am)very prius like hope they price it like one,hey what happened to the sports car look,this is just sad….
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:40 am)this is crap. They redid a prius, while the concept pics looked like the camaro. This is a total let down. If they want people to be environmentally friendly, quit making cars for fags. i dont want to look like im sucking a dick while im driving to work.
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:45 am)I think it looks like crap.
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:52 am)hey great job gm you reinvented the prius.. go to hell…..
Sep 9th, 2008 (3:03 am)HEY EVERYONE
I WAS JUST DRIVING BY OUR LOCAL TOYOTA DEALERSHIP AND I THINK I SAW THE NEW CHEVY VOLT THERE,GO AND SEE FOR YOURSELF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!LOL
Sep 9th, 2008 (3:29 am)Dude, where’s my car? Hey GM – This is looks like the super cheap-o POS that I rented last week in LA. You know, one of those those really cool Novas that they rent by the 100′s! This is why the American auto market is tanking. Get some new designers. Get a clue. This car looks lame. Have you upgraded your design staff since the 70′s? Are these the same guys that designed the Pacer, Gremlin, or that really cool looking Matador? Those guys didn’t get it either. Meanwhile enough people bought their terrible trash to make them think they were actually in tune with the public. Think outside the box, or at least look at your competition! It’s a shame that such advanced technology will be housed in this garbage can. Jeesssh!
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:16 am)If this is an honest display of how the new Volt will look, there can be only one explaination. Chevy has always been very competitive in the racing business. NASCAR and even funny car events will be seeing much of this car. I understand how GM traded off on the pointed nose piece (like the camaro) and went with the rounded frowning carp look. It is simply very aerodinamic. I feel that these cars will sell and become more and more popular over time. And that having the first model year look so “normal” will allow for much design tweaking over time. I suggest GM paint at least 1/3 of the Volts a gloss black to help soften the design of the nose. Navy is also a good Volt color. I think it best to pull all the images of the concept Volt off the forum pages. This model is not at all similar.
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:37 am)Sorry – looks too much like a Prius for my taste. The looks of the Prius are a big part of what has kept me from being interested in it. I guess I’ll have to wait for 2G.
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:40 am)looking rather Prius …
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:40 am)ok, so the concept car Was better, but no doubt gm did some research and this is what will sell to the masses, the hot cars will come later. the thing is to get this car on the road and Selling.
god bless the volt, and god bless the united states of america!
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:48 am)How can you go from such a cool car design to something so generic and stupid. I had better words but being a public post cleaned it up for Chevy. I was very excited about the Volt. Why because you will never get me in a car that looks like that. A grocery getter. I drive a Corvette, trade in for a Grandma car? Are you nuts? Totally falling by the wayside again Chevy, go with the norm. Be safe! I’ll go buy a BMW!
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:53 am)Yeah I re-read some other posts, with that said. Total crap Chevy. Your idea of a cool environmentally friendly car makes me want to vomit. Go Pirus! Turds…
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:14 am)The initial model of the “Volt” is what excited the public and your fellow GM workers. Then you go ahead and publish these pictrures, is there really anybody that pays attention to public opinion? We have destroyed this vehicle before it even hit the road. Why?
Because we have to many “YES” people and everone is afraid of losing their jobs and is afraid of having the bosses frown on personal opinions.
The Volt in its original concept/model was and is what the Volt should stay. But in all our brilliance we are going to change the look as we do with everything we touch. Change this, change that. I do not know who your designers are “foreign” (ex. Eurpoean or maybe Asian! I don’t care, put the Volt back the way it was PERIOD.
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:25 am)I like the Style very much, Why no picture with Ozzie Mike Simcoe ?
Car looks Great ! & E-flex is a winner.
Priass is left in the dust. LOL !
I like the Electric Plug in concept, hence I never bought the Hyrid which makes no sence
(Why buy a small corolla fastback = prius with a shocking payback period)
When Now with the upcoming VOLT you will get a REAL electric car with range extender.
Well Done all at GM
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:34 am)This car sucks! If I wanted a honda I would buy one. Take my name off of the waiting list. Hate It! Hate It! Why couldn’t chevy be different? Looks no different than a honda civic or toyota prius. This car is an ugly junky little car. Bring back the Geo Metro for less than $10000. More people would buy it than this POS. I wanted something different!
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:48 am)VERY DISAPPOINTING!!!!!
If I wanted a Malibu, I would buy one. You should have been able to look at the Volt and tell it was something different, like the concept to some extent. Chevy has watered it down and given us a very bland looking car. Maybe taken some lines from the CTS.
I was ready to put a deposit on one and it was the only thing that would have made me give up my Prius, I think I will wait to see what Mazda is doing with theirs. Their cars look better than Chevy’s anyway.
As far as payback goes how will it work when you are looking at a 30K+ price on the Volt?
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:51 am)It could’ve been a bit closer to the concept, the windows are in one piece instead of a broader lower part – of course that makes it cheaper not only financially but visually as well. (kind of like the 90s compact chrysler models)
The rims are really boring for a futuristic pre-production model.
In the end the shape is not bad, but it is lacking something that would make it stand out – like Audis new headlights. The futuristic underhood cannot be found on any exterior part.
Sorry guys, but this could have been better
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:55 am)Yea, just another vanella sedan, totally boring….loved the concept car….won’t buy this crappy looking production thing.
scratch me off the list
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:07 am)Well, I guess GM has killed the wet dream of all the 16-24 year old boys….
What happened to the “this car has to be for the masses!!!” mantra that was being pushed so hard over the last few months??? This design is for the masses! The concept car was the niche vehicle.
And it is obvious that most of these posters have no real clue about what this car is all about. It is almost funny. I also do not get the contradiction between “The designs from Japan are better” with “This car looks like a Camry/Prius”. Finally, anyone that really has been following the progress of the Volt knows who the guys in the pictures are………..
So we have about 300 out of the over 40,000 on Lyle’s list that have said “take me off the list”. That is less than 1%. That is really not all that bad! I guess they just like to vent!
For those that are so unhappy, just wait. In a few years you will get your two seater roadster!
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:13 am)That white ipod center console looks like A$$. Considering I spend 99% of my time inside, and only 1% out, the interior needs to rock.
Why can’t they simply hire someone to produce a Honda’ish interior with the nice fit and finish it deserves. The exterior looks great, but seriously, spend some more $$$$$ on the interior.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:15 am)Sorry, not ready for the japanese look, what a shame those at GM weren’t paying attention to those admiring the Volts looks. Count me out don’t want a Prius or anything that looks like a Honda.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:27 am)I loved the concept much better. car does nothing for me. I currently drive a solstice and was hoping for the sporty look. this is a drastic change from the concept has nothing sporty about it. take me off the list.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:40 am)Nothing like the concept I would not buy this. GM will probaly sell more than if they had went with the sporty coupe, but they will not be selling one to me.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:43 am)Looks a little bit like the Toyota Scion tc that my daughter has. I think the vehicle looks good but the original version had a bad yet sophisticated look that I loved. I think they should have kept it. Just as you can tell a prius from a mile away and has become a distincive shape for “hybrid”, the original version of the volt would have done the same thing. Now instead of people saying “look isn’t that one of those new electric Volts that GM has come out with?” They’ll say, “A Volt? oh, this is one of those. I thought it was a toyota or saturn or something.. ya.. it is a volt.. cool.”
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:48 am)SOOO DISAPPOINTED! They took away all it’s tough look edginess in the restyle, That was as good reason to buy as the Electric Concept.
I could not possibly give up my Mustang Ragtop for this pathetic imitation of the concept car.
I think I’ll wait too . . . . for 2nd or 3rd year production models until they change it enough to make it look sporty again..
CATRACER
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:50 am)I voted that I liked the concept better, but on spending more time looking at the production version, especially at a lower angle the car looks real good and is really growing on me.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:55 am)Too bad – I was truly excited about an AMERICAN car with technology AND style. Looks like a “me too” design. I see no reason to risk early version costs & bugs for this.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:05 am)The concept is sooo much better. The concept looks like what a “volt” should be. This one looks like something my Grandma would drive….I won’t waste my money on this car.
At least make the prototype into a production sporty edition or something.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:07 am)I’m really disapointed, I’ll probably by a electric smart instead at leat it has some style.
They just don’t get it, how can you spend so much budget on a car and giving it a ugly traditionnal GM look. They should start looking at european design. Maybe then they will be able to sell more cars.
That guy Bob Boniface (chief designer) should loose his job. Because of him they’re going to loose millions.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:11 am)CHEVY MISSED THE BOAT. You won’t be able to pick this out of a crowd, there is no distinctive shape left. My Granny wouldn’t be excited about the looks of this car, It does indeed look so bland now it is pathetic.
I love all you Technoids arguing about Aerodynamics, The damn thing only goes 40 miles on a charge, and thing you’re back to gas anyway, give it a rest.
They could have generated a lot more product/image recognition if they left the shape alone, It was so cool before it was hot! Now, you could just put a Prius Emblem on it and not suprise anyone.
HOWEVER, It is about time somebody in America finally put the whole plug in concept into production, Let’s give GM/Chevy credit for that at least.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:16 am)I am deeply disappointed!
They’ve taken what was a hot, aggressive looking sports sedan, and turn it into a Honda Accord look alike. From something truely inspired, to something mundane and boring. Just another econobox.
If this is it… take my name off the waiting list.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:21 am)Just lost my vote. I liked the pics of the concept better. This now looks like every other car out there. If I am spending 35K I want it to look like I am spending 35K…… Vanity is a marketable trait……
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:22 am)What happened???? The styling completely changed! I understand that the concept car was not the final production vehicle, but to turn it from an awesome looking car into a standard GM/Toyota/Honda look-a-like takes the ~fun~ prospect out of owning a Volt. They should have kept faithful to the original design more, and released whatever this car is as another model. I guess the engine was the only concept worth keeping. People don’t want a Camaro JUST for the engine, they want a car that LOOKS like it should, and performs as it should. The official Volt look simply misses the mark!
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:29 am)Where is the VOLT I was excited about?
This is another generic and ugly GM car that looks like you’re overpaying beyond a price point of $25,000. I would gladly sacrifice a few miles in range for the original aerodynamics. I’ll stick with my Volvos.
What a total buzz-kill. This executive team should be fired – they just don’t get it. Maybe this fiasco will finally sink GM and a European or Japanese company will take over, clean house and do it all so much better. That is, after all, the American way.
Take me off the wait list.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:36 am)I would want to see some performance numbers before I buy this, I cannot ever buy a car that is too slow, I have little patience and I know most people in america are just like me, I must say that they realy “uglified” this car from its concept, I was fond of the bulging wheel arches and muscle like aspect of the concept, this one is just too bland now, not sure if they want to sell this or not now
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:38 am)This look like any car… and not exciting to drive. Ok I’m not behind the wheel yet but outside look is dull.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:41 am)GM management never commited to the wait list.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:45 am)Pathetic! No where near as cool as the concepts shown previously. I’ll put my money somewhere else.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:46 am)they probably should. At least the wait list contains serious people who are willing to put down a deposit.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:49 am)No like.
Not as nice as concept. Needed something along that line that says new and electrifying!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:50 am)What’s the take from GM now that they and the exec’s have seen the responses to the redesign??? I’d be really curious how they feel about the reaction.
Do they feel they have time to redo some aspects of the front end, fenders, wheel wells, roof line? Tweak it a bit back to the flavor of the concept?
We need to hear from GM.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:51 am)Does NOT look like concept car; Concept was a great looking car, why change it from the concept. I will not buy one now.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:52 am)WHAT HAPPENED?
The concept car was something that gave me PURE EXCITEMENT. When you first looked at it, your only thought was “ooh, very nice”. I’m not looking for an electric car that looks like what everyone else has. Let’s go back of thinking outside the box. P L E A S E go back with the concept car. My first reaction looking at the production model, “fire all those men standing next to that car”. GM really needs to put a car out on the market that is going to get people talking. This production car won’t do it.
The concept car people were really talking about this car coming out. I had a blown up picture of the concept car in my office. When people came in 99% of the time the reaction was, Wow, what is that? I was proud to tell them. That’s a Chevy Volt. I am on the waiting list for one. That’s a Chevy? Yes, it is. They wanted the website. I couldn’t wait. I was literally counting the days when this car was coming out.
I am REALLY not happy with the production model. Give me back the “WOW”. There’s no wow with the production car. There’s no sizzle. It’s just a basic car.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:52 am)I must say that I am dissapointed. The concept had true potential and would have peaked my interest even in the 35K price range.
The production version looks like the cross between an Pontiac G6 and a Pruis. – Another plain vanilla spin off that will get you much less bang for your buck.
You guys really missed the boat on this one!
I remember the latest 350Z concept that Nissan touted. At least the production version (although watered down ) still evokes the most of the production version excitement…
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:57 am)8 years ago to the day, I drove off the lot in my very own Prius.
The expectation back then was hybrids like that would be a standard choice from all automakers by now. After all, peak-oil was predicted for the end of the decade and emissions were already a problem.
So, reading a discussion like this was the last thing I ever expected. It appears as though the logically obvious shape of future cars is not that appealing… yet. Letting go of the impractical 20th Century styling is a lot harder than you thought it was going to be, eh?
I’m not sure if I can be of any help other than providing words of encouragement. The Classic model Prius use to stick out in a crowd originally too. But as the years progressed, other vehicles began taking on a similar look. Now the same thing is happening with the HSD model. As an owner, you really won’t care though. The technology grows on you. That’s what your focus will be held by anyway.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:58 am)Blah!
I am dissapointed as well. I really liked the look of the concept and I’d be willing to pay much more for it than this bland design. I suppose they are trying to expedite production by slamming the technology into the chasis of their existing designs.
I’ll be watching the price point very carefully now. Definitely dropped at least 10k off my max, probably more like 15k.
Note to GM…this was supposed to be my mid life crisis car too!
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:59 am)What happened to the concept look ??????
it looked wicked now it looks like a HONDA product….
SHOOT THE DESIGN TEAM YOU PUTTZZZZZZZZ I COULD DO BETTER AND I’M AN ELECTRICIAN…………
Even GM thinks about looking and being Honda ugggg!!!!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:02 am)Scratch my name from the wait list…if I wanted a Civic I certainly wouldn’t pay this much for one…guess I can use that money I was saving for it and go ahead and restore my classic VW (a car with an actual personality)
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:02 am)I must say, if that is the “real” production car, I am disappointed…
And probably off the “buy” list for now…
It looks nothing like the concept, not even close – looks more like a souped up Prius…
This is the 21st century! 2010 is coming, I want a more futuristic looking car!
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:04 am)Looks great, sounds great, but suspect GM will outprice me with prices starting at $35K and going up for a compact car.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:14 am)I liked the old look better than the new one i thought the old one would get more people to buy it so they could keep making them. but on the other hand this one has wind resistance. i would still buy one and lower it to the ground. oh well i still like it a lot.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:16 am)I’m very dissapointed. The concept car looked so good and now this! When GM did the Soltice Concept the production car look very similar to it (Which I own one!) But this car looks nothing like the concept car. Very Dissappointed…………………….
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:16 am)From what I can see from around those GM’s it’s looks nice. But I wish I could see the whole car in a couple of the images.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:19 am)One word: BORING. This is very disappointing. The stylistic design of the concept was the main attraction for me, but then we get this Honda Civic looking thing. If I wanted a Honda, I’d buy one. I guess I was unrealistically hoping that the concept design would make it to production. I would like to know why the hot concept design was ditched in favor of this family oriented design. I am no longer interested. Maybe another company will take up the hybrid/sports car concept and run with it. Based on history, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the Japanese beat GM to the punch.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:22 am)The Volt design as presented is not in competition with the 08 Prius or 08 Scion or 08 Mini Cooper. It is in competion with the cars to be issued two years from now. The original design of the Volt was right on target. And, as many have mentioned here, people are willing to take a slightly shorter range for a more camaro/vette “Chevy” look. City driving at under 50 mph will not be effected very much with a more aggressive grill style. It is when the driver pushes 80 mph that the blunt nose will pay off in range. Volt still has the edge on power. The others are going to be getting blown off the on ramps and straining at high RPM to compete with the cars of 2011. The Volt will quietly win that race.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:24 am)Very poor execution. The concept grabbed everyone’s attention. The production model will lose the buzz. Also, the concept was a lot bigger. At 6′ 3”, I will probably not purchase this version.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:26 am)This is NOT the reason I put my name on this waiting list for..If I wanted a Honda I would buy a Honda….I signed up a for a Volt NOT a run of the mill car.
Sorry gm you got it all wrong.
What happened to the concept look ??????
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:29 am)I have to say I am disappointed, everyone else seems to like the looks of this car, but I liked the concept. I guess I am old school and like the boxier looking muscle car look. I think it looks like every other car on the market. I have the concept car on my wallpaper and could not wait for prodution. I love the overall concept of an electric car just not the looks.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:29 am)Well I’m guessing that this is the GM version and not the Chevy version. I love the Chevy Volt concept design.. way cool. The GM version reminds me of a Toyota Camry.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:29 am)THIS LOOKS LIKE A 15-20K$ CAR, NOT 30-40K$, MIGHT HAVE A FEW SALES AT FIRST BUT WITH HONDA CIVIC LOOLALIKE SALES WILL NOT BE AS HIGH, GM WILL LEARN A TOUGHT LESSON IF THEY PUT THIS CRAPPY DESIGN IN PRODUCTION, DOES NOT LOOK SPORTY, AMERICAN OR TOUGH!!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:31 am)I was happy with concept style, The malibu is hot but G.M. needed to get attention to this car not make it so standard. It should have made everyone that saw it say I dont care what it runs on I want one. Thats what the concenpt did for me. The concept style would have done it. Its good looking but not eye catching anymore, bummer!
G.M. needs to get people excited and show its not following the prius its passing it. A plain jane wont do it. I know one thing for sure electric cars are the way to go. I can make electric at home I cant make hydrgen or gas, I dont want to buy fuel from the man anymore, I dont want to polute anymore, I want an electric car and fuel it buy myself. All and All Im glad they have somthing to start with finely.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:40 am)Concept style is way better… this looks to much like a Prius. Once again GM drops the ball, they had a great concept but failed to execute. Too bad, very disappointed.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:43 am)This is more like it should be. I don’t want some wacky looking weirdo thing in my driveway. Make a the original version for California.
All who don’t like, I’ll take your place on the waiting list.
Sad to say it does look a little like the POJ Civic.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:45 am)It looks Ok but the concept car looks more like a “roadster” vs. the crumby pics of a cavilier with a hatchback. Come on guys… there’s no way I am paying 50K for that!!! Maybe 30K…this is the launch of your future G.M.!
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:48 am)Sooooooo disappointing!!! I loved the concept car so much — now the production model looks like everything else out there — boring. Hatchbacks look like “sporty” station wagons. I’ve changed my mind — I’m no longer interested in buying this car.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:50 am)The Car of Tomorrow, with the Body of Yesterday.
I also am disappointed. I’m willing to pay a few more bucks for a car that has a ‘cool’ factor (as well as a ‘green’ factor). But this is pretty average looking (like all GM cars).
Forget the 4 doors. How about a 2-Door with semi-functional rear seats (ala G-37)
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:50 am)Why do concepts always look better than the production model? Why do designers make the concept if they know it is going to change? This was a perfect opportunity for a major automaker to give the world something special. I think mostwill agree – the majority of interested buyers would have appreciated a production car that is closer to the concept design I realize changes needed to be made, but did it have to look like this? It is just like everything else on the road these days except for the guts. Deliver a sporty / aggressive vehicle of the future. I realize this is a difficult design – however, I feel the designers missed on this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:51 am)Would you have the designers make the Volt heavier for no reason?
but then, when it comes to aerodynamics you’re all ( half of you, anyway) you’re all like “Make it worse! please make it a worse performing car!” “Make it less efficient, sir, it’s too darn efficient”
btw belated thanks to the poster on the other thread who computed the Horsepower-requirement equivalent of a 13 watt-consuming light bulb when I posed that one. Thanks! (can’t remember which thread that was)
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:53 am)Are you kidding me? What happened to this car. I thought it was cool looking (concept). It looks like every other car on the road. I am very dissapointed. I may still buy one, but before, I definitely would have!
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:54 am)Are you kidding me? What happened to this car? I thought it was cool looking (concept). It looks like every other car on the road. I am very dissapointed. I may still buy one, but before, I definitely would have!
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:55 am)This execution is unfortunate. I saw this and thought to myself, ‘what happened???’ This car was so innovative as a concept, yet now intrigues me like a carton of milk.
Are there any actual figures on price right now? If they are standing that $35-40k line, they are delusional. This car will be pulled from the market within a year at that price.
Sigh.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:56 am)Well I won’t be buying one now that it looks the way it does. Went from “one cool mother” to a “mothers minivan” almost.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:59 am)Thanks, but NO THANKS! Not even close to the concept model!!! I was waiting in line to buy the concept model. Seeing this Import looking thing, I’ll wait for a Euro model series hybrid and keep my eye on Phoenix Motorcars. In the mean time, I’ll keep my TDI’s!!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:00 am)How can GM let Pontiac hit such a homerun with the Solstice and then let Chevrolet produce the Volt, which looks totally different from the concept and looks a lot like another POS Puris. I will wait for the Cadillac Provoq myself. At least Cadillac does usually try and build something close to the concept. Also a hydrogen fuel cell makes a lot more since to me then a lithium battery-pack backed-up by our friend the combustion engine! If we truly are going to move into the 21st Century let us do it correctly and with real cutting edge technology and not just a stopgap solution. GM has been on the cutting-edge of hydrogen development for years and the fuel cell is the next logistical step forward!
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:04 am)Looks like the concept got “overcharged” and spit this thing out.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:11 am)There is form, and then there is function. This is all function and no form = nasty ugly. I’d give up a few MPG for better looks. Chevy needs to sell these things (fo 40K+). Good luck!
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:15 am)Well it is a lot more interesting than the Prius. I will buy it….even
for 40K. Actually I will buy two for my business and ‘wrap’
them with art advertising….and declare my business is ‘green’.
Thank you GM.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:22 am)Those guys look like a bunch of dorks.
So does the car.
But, I’m over fifty – so I’m way past the point in my life where I have to drive a ‘Cool’ car.
Practicality is all that matters now.
So, the Volt will work just fine for me.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:28 am)I don’t see why some people liked the concept car so much. It looked like a Camaro from the 80s to me. It wasn’t very aerodynamic either. That’s the main reason the Volt looks different than the concept. It’s designed to be much more aerodynamic. It’s a whole different kind of car. You won’t need the same exterior design features like you see on regular IC engine cars. I like the new design better but it could use some tweaks here and there. GM still has 2 years before the Volt arrives in dealerships you know. This exterior design might be considered Beta 1 if it was a software project. Plenty of time left before it goes RTM (gold).
I would have preferred to see the headlights and front end look a bit more like the new Lexus IS350. I think the grille on the Volt is too wide or something. I think the grill size on the I350 is about right. I also like headlight shape on the IS350 and the new Mazda6 MPS. Symmetry, optimal size and proportion is important for cars just like it is with human faces. Animals too. I think people subconsciously “anthromorphize” their cars somewhat. I think I heard Bob Lutz mention this one time. He’s right.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthropomorphism
I think they could make the rear tail lights a bit larger. They look about 1/3 too small or something. Maybe GM can still change some of these things. Who cares if the Volt resembles other cars a bit too much! Just like writing new songs, it’s hard to come up with something TOTALLY unique. A lot of the good riffs and melodies have already been done, so you gotta use the “tried and true” song structures and tweak them just enough so they are somewhat unique.
GM needs to make the Volt a blockbuster selling car. With GM’s sophisticated CAD computer tools they might could make a few design changes without causing problems with the rest of the car. GM needs to be like Toyota with their “kaizen” philosophy … constant improvement wherever possible and practical. The Volt should evolve. Make every small detail of the Volt better and better like a great piece of sculpture by Leonardo da Vinci or something.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:29 am)Where di I order here in Denmark ??
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:30 am)Where do I order here in Denmark ??
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:33 am)Looks like they slapped a chevy badge on a prius. Nice move GM.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:35 am)I don’t see why some people liked the concept car so much. It looked like a Camaro from the 80s to me. It wasn’t very aerodynamic either. That’s the main reason the Volt looks different
than the concept. It’s designed to be much more aerodynamic. It’s a whole different kind of car.
You won’t need the same exterior design features like you see on regular IC engine cars. I like the new design better but it could use some tweaks here and there. GM still has 2 years before the Volt arrives in dealerships you know. This exterior design might be considered Beta 2 if it was a software project. Plenty of time left before it goes RTM (gold).
I would have preferred to see the headlights and front end look a bit more like the new Lexus IS350. I think the grille on the Volt is too wide or something. I think the grill size on the I350 is about right. I also like headlight shape on the IS350 and the new Mazda6 MPS. Symmetry, optimal size and proportion is important for cars just like it is with human faces. Animals too. I think people subconsciously “anthromorphize” their cars somewhat. I think I heard Bob Lutz mention this one time. He’s right.
I think they could make the rear tail lights a bit larger. They look about 1/3 too small or something. Maybe GM can still change some of these things. Who cares if the Volt resembles other cars a bit too much! Just like writing new songs, it’s hard to come up with something TOTALLY unique. A lot of the good riffs and melodies have already been done, so you gotta use the “tried and true” song structures and tweak them just enough so they are somewhat unique.
GM needs to make the Volt a blockbuster selling car. With GM’s sophisticated CAD computer tools they might could make a few design changes without causing problems with the rest of the
car. GM needs to be like Toyota with their “kaizen” philosophy … constant improvement wherever possible and practical. The Volt should evolve. Make every small detail of the Volt better and better like a great piece of sculpture by Leonardo da Vinci or something.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:39 am)ahhh,, GM had one job with this car.. make it look cool to say electric cars can perform and look awesome.. that they dont need to be a low end putt mobile that appeals only to wacko enviornmentalists .. something to appeal the other 95% of the country. If people have dozens of models of gas cars to choose from and one generic electric car.. well.. almost everyone is going to be staying with gas,, so it defeats the purpose.. pay $25,000 more for a car to have no gas… or buy a car that uses gas that looks nice that will cost the same or less in “gas” by the time you sell it for your next car (well thats if you can get someone to buy your used car with expensive batteries that will need to be replaced..kinda like buying a car that you know youll need to throw a new engine in soon for someone buying it used..).
To me this is like the old 2004 under mustang compared to the 2005 and up mustang.. who in thier right mind would ever consider buying the old style after seeing the awesome looks of the new one..
Stick to the concept GM.. or you just might be out of the car business come 2010.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:43 am)Jim I
I agree that there are a TON of “new names” in this thread, but does a “car for he masses” mean designing for the “least common denominator”? Maybe it does (shrug).
john1701a,
It’s darn nice of you to pipe up in support of the Volt’s design. I really mean that. Your “been there, done that – and we’ll survive” helps. For all the barbs it’s taken (here) the Prius is/was a ground breaker. And I think that GM’s work on the Volt may take it another step. We can be sure that it’ll advance the “No plug, No sale” idea from a lot of car makers in the next few years.
Buckle up everyone. It may be a bumpy ride (you can bet it’ll be an interesting one!)
Be well,
Tag
LJGTVWOTR
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:45 am)Ugh. And I was so excited about the concept model. What could possibly be the thinking behind this design? It’s as if GM secretly wants to kill the whole project.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:45 am)Really hard to tell what it looks like with all these over paid suits in the way. Looks better over here, check out….
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2008/08/28/breaking-is-this-the-production-chevy-volt-in-transformers-2/
http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid1631252024?bctid=1759811968
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:51 am)I’m also dissapointed that the production vehicle design has deviated so much from the concept’s design. I always expect the design to change, I am just constantly surprised, and most often dissapointed, at how much it actually does.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:10 am)i kinda miss the concept the enlongated nose gave it a dont mess with me look but now it lookss just like a average car
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:15 am)I agree, it doesn’t look anything like the prototype. It looks like the next gen Chevy Malibu.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:19 am)Yuch. Here I’ve been excited about a series hybrid that was great looking too. Forget it. Looks like everything else on the road. I’ll still consider one, along with the new 3rd gen Prius and whatever else is on the road on or about 2010. But I will certainly not be waiting especially for this vehicle any longer. Darn shame, they had a great shape…
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:20 am)Wow, I thought is was going to look more like the Chevy Camaro, not a mutated Toyota Prius and Chevy Malibu. I did want one, if it would have looked like the prototype, but now, NO WAY!
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:22 am)Rider
I didn’t get a good closeup look of the Volt from all angles in that Transformers 2 video, but I thought it looked pretty good. Maybe it’s the overhead angle of the camera or because this Transformers Volt was put on a Malibu frame. I like the headlights and back end better too. Put a smaller front grille on it similar to the Lexus IS350 and I really like it. The wheels looked good too on the Transformers car.
I think the designers of the Volt might have been constrained in making the Volt better because it is on a smaller frame. People are used to seeing those larger frame cars on mid sized sedans like the Accord, Malibu, and Camry.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:24 am)Crap, another Toyota Prius look-alike. Probably drive-alike. Probably gets the same friggin mileage. Another 35-40mpg vehicle. Hey dudes, they already make add-on battries ($10k) to put in the Prius that would turn it into this vehicle. Half the point was to have something futuristic. Why do you do this to me? I want to love Chevy. But you make it very difficult.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:34 am)The Volt definitely lost it’s cutting edge design along with a significant amount of eye appeal. Could be a Prius or Civic with some extra bends and creases. As far as I’m concerned, it went from a $30K+ vehicle to a definite sub-$30K. I truly think GM missed a chance at jumping into the lead it could hold onto for awhile. You can bet that the Japanese makers will have a plug-in at about the same time the Volt hits it’s production stride so as always it will come back to styling and eye appeal, not to mention the manufacturers reputation for quality, reliability, and value. I’d prefer to own the Chevy Volt but this significant design departure from the edgy concept makes it a toss up once again. I’ll reserve judgement until I can get better, more complete pictures or see it in the flesh.
Right now I’m feeling like I setup a blind date with a “10″ and now that I’m on her doorstep she’s more like a “5″…not downright ugly by any means but not dazzling either…but maybe after taking the leap to get to know her better….
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:36 am)after examining it more closely
this is pure crap, I wouldn’t buy that heap of idiocy and bland run of the mill even if it was for $1 … to pay close to 40k for this would be insane
this production volt looks like a Dodge neon had intercourse with volkswagen and this is the aftermath
you dissapoint me once again GM, consider me off the wait list, you will go bankrupt if you release this ugly car
who did you hire to make this car this ugly? subaru engineers? Fiat panda designers?
what a joke, what a joke of a company
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:38 am)They turned a cool looking car into a mommy-mobile!
Guess I’ll have to wait for the Opel Flextreme (and hope the designers don’t ruin it in the meantime).
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:44 am)I would of preferred the boxy Camaro look with 20 miles per charge than this thing, even if it gets 50+ miles per charge. About 20 miles per charge would still get me to work and back….only without shame.
It was one thing to improve the aerodynamics…but this is a different car. I’m sorry, but I can’t drive an asian looking car–they make me vomit. I think I’d rather look into the Ford Fusion of Ford Edge hybrids coming out soon.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:45 am)The avatars on gm-volt.com are making it load very s l o w l y.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:53 am)This is a joke, right?! Once again an American manufacturer has taken a revolutionary and stylish prototype and devolved it into a generic egg. I’ll save my money for a Tesla.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:53 am)I forgot to mention during my rant that I do like the back end…everything is fine except the Civic front end.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:53 am)Bob Boniface, Chief of Volt Design and Bob Lutz, GM Vice President should go to work for Toyota. Get someone in GM that knows the history of Chevy’s and what they stand for.
I honestly think that the concept Volt would of put GM on top. People want to buy American – put some pride in what you are putting on the market. Make this car come out with people running to get there hands on it. The production Volt does not do that.
I have been looking at a lot of these messages. The majority aren’t looking good for the production Volt. I hope that GM honestly reads what is being written. GO BACK WITH THE CONCEPT VOLT. Make GM a proud name again.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:54 am)Grandma, can I borrow your car?
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:54 am)It looks nothing like the original. It is going to be $40,000. They do not want to sell alot of these. They want it to look like they are doing the right thing. Big Oil is still in control!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:55 am)Please pass the word to GM that a good chunk of their buyers will be women — and women really do like a little pizzazz in color and styling. Since the car is radically different, why not make the colors radically different? Silver, red, and black are same-old/same-old. All women — regardless of skin, hair, eye coloring — look gorgeous in teal greans and aquas. They prefer slide-back sunroofs to convertibles (so they can get a little tan without messing their hair and having the wind blow everything else in the car around). They like grilles that give a car a stylish look and don’t make it look like a tank. And they want a mirror on the driver-side sun-visor!
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:55 am)everyone go to the main page of the site and VOTE for wether you like the concept or the tin can.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:59 am)Fugly, did exxon redesign the original model?
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:00 am)I think if the GM design team decides to make a few changes to the exterior design, they ought to “creatively emulate” the Lexus IS350′s front end. The back end of the IS350 is not as good.
http://carsmedia.ign.com/cars/image/article/723/723248/lexus-is-350-2006-20060803052619547.jpg
I wanted the Volt to have that sleek, sophisticated BMW and Lexus type style to it. Not so much like the Camaro. It’s not supposed to be a menacing looking sports car. Leave that for another E-Flex model later.
It’s supposed to be a small 4 door sports sedan like the IS250 I presume … a bit smaller than the Malibus and Accords. One of GM’s subsidiaries, Holden, has a great looking exterior design with their new Coupe 60 car. Even though it’s a larger framed sports coupe, GM ought to just borrow design cues from this car! I love the side view and the rear end on the Coupe 60. The whole car actually.
http://images.motortrend.com/future/concept_cars/112_0802_02z+holden_coupe_60+left_rear_three_quarter_static.jpg
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:02 am)I like the back better than the front, and for a ground breaking car I don’t know how anyone could complain.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:04 am)What makes the Volt so exciting is the appeal it has to the sporty and technology/eco-friendly markets. The first version of the Volt could tap these markets because it has the unique combination of a sexy, sporty look and the efficiency that is in demand. Taking away the aggressive look takes away the thing that makes the Volt special. I hope the final version of the Volt is not the generic, cookie cutter, boring car in the pictures above.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:11 am)Has actual production started? Or is this just another set of pictures of what might be someday?
If production has actually begun, what month (projected) will the first car be ready for purchase?
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:17 am)I gotta have one of those!!!!!!!!!!!! When are they gonna start making them! And they’re not going to just lease them are they?
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:17 am)Wow. I am profoundly disappointed. Why on earth did they take the aggresive aesthetic totally out of the equation, unless they are just trying to go head to head with the Prius? The concept Volt would have opened new markets to real auto enthusiasts who also appreciate the game changing motive engineering. I guess the marketing plan is to sell to people who are trying to make a statement about how ‘green’ they are. Take my name off the list, I guess I will wait for Germany to get it right. I am sad for the American jobs that an aggressive approach would have saved. It is tough to watch the GM death spiral. Fellow taxpayers, stand by to bail out their pension fund in a few years.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:23 am)It’s not like GM doesn’t have the technological ability to make some changes to the Volt’s exterior if they want to. It won’t be easy to make a lot of BIG changes and still keep those good aerodynamic numbers though. One thing that makes this Volt version look different than other cars is because it probably has excellent aerodynamic drag for the air that goes under the BOTTOM of the car. That’s important. If the GM design team thinks they can make it look better then GM’s management ought to give them the greenlight. This Volt car is HUGE for GMs future. They probably have time. If GM gets some of this $50 billion low interest loan, they’ll have the money to do it too.
The first Volts won’t be coming to dealerships until late 2010. I’d bet that it’s more like Q1 of 2011 though. GM needs to rigorously test this car from top to bottom. I want them to make sure the technology under the skin is world class and does very well in those Consumer Reports and JD Power reliability/quality studies.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:29 am)This is a let down… it looks like a Corolla/Civic. Way too mainstream. The cool factor as far as looks go is definitely gone. Instead, it’s just an updated version of boring looking cars.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:29 am)Ugh… I don’t think that looks sporty at all, in fact I’d be embarrassed to own the car pictured. What happened to aggressive sporty styling?
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:30 am)I am sorry but I liked the Concept looks way better – this just looks way to wimpy for me. I was very intrested in buying this before, but now I will not. I could see my grandparents driving this – not me!
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:33 am)No wonder GM advertised the concept Volt in the Olympics !
They were too ashamed of the production Volt to show it worldwide. And I don’t blame them – it’s as bland as plain oatmeal. UGH! GM ‘s exec’s should be beaten, hung, stabbed, shot, crucified, cremated, and their ashes buried in a toxic waste site for this abomination.
These aren’t pictures of a Volt, they’re pictures of a joke. And I’m not laughing.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:38 am)Gone is my hope to own a cool-looking green car. Driving this would be similar to being castrated.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:40 am)I agree this design sucks!!! The original design gave it an original look taking GM somewhere into the future and not the same old boring past. I will also wait for a different design. I wouldnt be caught dead driving this ugly duckling!
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:42 am)I thought they were going to make a car people would want to buy.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:43 am)Well it looks good but wish when car companys put out a concept car they would really make the body look like they intend to produce it.
Everyone drolled over the looks of the concept car and now they round it to the point it looks verry little like the one they showed as an concept. Well never the less I still intend on getting one as long as there is a striped down version where a normal person can afford it. No sence in having an enectric car if it has a bunch of options to drain the battery. Good work to GM for getting it done… BTY MAKE a 2 seater sport Volt with the original body style
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:00 pm)On the survey I filled out I put I would pay 40K for a Volt. A $40,000 car has to look like a $40,000 car which the concept did. This looks like the Malibu hybrid. I’ll pay 25K for this just to have a plug in car, but at 40K, it’s not enough energy savings to pay for itself. The only way people will pay too much for a vehicle is if it looks cool! If this style costs over 25K, take me off the list!
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:03 pm)Yikes… this is a HUGE disappointment. It looks like the lovechild of a Malibu and a Prius… neither of which are attractive cars AT ALL. They dumbed the look down so much it has no visual appeal now.
What happened to the edgy look they’ve been showing us all along? Bring it back!!! Make this a car that doesn’t just blend in to all the other bland, undifferentiated compacts on the road. It’s supposed to be a new, exciting, and different car… it should look like it!
Can anyone tell me how I can contact the Volt team, to let them know how much of a letdown this benign style is?
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:06 pm)From the rear, this looks like it might even be a hatchback. I sure hope so, anyway!
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:07 pm)Totally disapointed. they took a beautiful concept car with a lot of potential and took away everything positive to leave a honda civic clone that I wouldn’t park in my neighbor’s driveway, let alone my own.
Will they, perhaps, produce something more like the concept for people actually LIKE cars?
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:08 pm)Take a look at reply 643, If the transformer 2 pictures are of the same car the pictures here do it no justice. The Volt transformer car is something to get excited about! I looked for design cues and it does look like the same car. The pictures above don’t excite me, just another aero designed compact. Take a look at the video!
Bill
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:09 pm)Although different from the concept vehicle, it’s definitely a unique look which gives the Volt it’s own identity just as GM promised. I think the rounded front end turned out nice. The rear view is equally impressive. The color is very cool!
Some questions I have are:
1) Is the lower section of the window that leads to the charge port glass or is it simply a black plastic window trim?
2) Is the roof black tinted glass or a black painted steel roof?
3) How in the world does the hatch or trunk work? From what I can tell in the photo there doesn’t appear to be any body lines to indicate that it even has a trunk.
Overall, very good work GM. Now let’s get ‘em rolling out of the factory ASAP!
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:10 pm)Although it looks extremely like the Toyota Camry, I dig it, lots! It’s very unfortunate that Chevy moved so far from original concept. They could’ve tried to stay a little truer to the original. Perhaps, next time you can post some pictures that aren’t obstructed by these suits!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:12 pm)How can they take such an awesome concept car and reduce it to this. They took sexy and turned it into total crap. It’s really sad. I’m guessing all the positive comments here are all GM employees. I’m a customer with 10 years of Pontiacs under my belt. I just hope the performance/mpg lives up to the hype because that’s the only reason I would even consider one of these.
Yes… looks do matter.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:13 pm)My guess is that they cut corners, in more ways that one. To make it the closer to the concept car would have probably cost too much tooling. This way they can use existing tooling. Heck, it looks like an Eagle talon with extra headroom in back and different headlights and grill,
And what’s with all the suits standing directly in front of the thing? In none of these images can you see a decent amount of the car. They must be embarrassed deep down inside to show it. “Isn’t it great!” “Move out of the way so we can see!!!”
Note: it doesn’t look much like the blue Volt in Transformers2 who’s images have been floating around the internet. That may be because you don’t have a bunch of conceited nerdy suits who think they, not the car, are what people are interested in.
If the blue volt in Transformers2 is truer to life, then I think there’s hope otherwise this car will be DOA.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:18 pm)This car is going to appeal to a whole new audience. Those of us
who tripped on the concept will find this car o.k. at best. Compromises are always made between a concept and production
version of a car. They will lose some of us and gain others. If they
come out with a decent two door version I might consider it, otherwise count me out.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:20 pm)This is an ACURA TSX lookalike – It looks like exactly the same car – check out google and you’ll see what I mean…
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:33 pm)This car looks nothing like the concept…no longer interested.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:33 pm)A total miss for those of us who appreciate our automobiles for more than just getting from points A to B. Obviously there is a small percentage of you prius-type owners that may like this bland commuter version; but for me personally, I’m joining the majority of you in saying “you wont find this eco-sedan plugged into my garage”. It’s a sad missed opportunity by GM to bring a winning combination of technology and performance to the road.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:43 pm)Just as predicted!!! It looks like another Chevy Malibu #$%^*&! Well, I guess I’ll rent it from Budget. BOOOOOO!
The prototype was a thing of Beauty! Let me know when those are available.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:44 pm)Heavy sigh–talk about style disappointment. Another generic, dorky-looking car that will undoubtedly appeal to accountants, engineers, and soccer moms. (Is there anyone else I can offend here?) Lucky for GM there’s a lot of those kind of people. I’m sure they’ll make money.
This is America– why do we have to choose between performance and style? My money is going to the one who gives me both. GM can take me off their waiting list.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:47 pm)GM should be happy the photos were leaked. Now they know how wack everyone thinks it looks and they can go back to the lab and get it right! Not a good look.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:47 pm)Looks nothing like the prototype. what a let down. It looks like all the other cars on the road. The color looks like the only thing left from the concept. I am taking my name off the wait list!!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:47 pm)Slightly disappointed at the production model, as impressions gathered from the interviews seemed to indicate that it would still be a stand out, electric sports car for the masses. The only thing I can recognize at first are the headlights, mirrors, and the back end. Other then that, it looks like a standard sedan. It has deviated quite far from the original design, and looks more generic then it is supposed to.
That being said, it’s NOT a bad design, just less then what was expected and hyped. The only way I won’t be getting one is if a competitor comes out with a next gen (electric or hydrogen) sportier car and/or coupe. Or if GM announces a coupe for 2011.
I’m glad GM will have some competition, it’ll keep them on their toes with regard to performance and style.
On the off chance that GM will read this particular comment, I say to you: next revision, or next next-gen car, please do not take any design cues from the Prius, as a previous poster accurately said:”it looks like a pregnant roller skate.” The Volt was supposed to be the anti-Prius.
If the Volt was the ONLY next gen electric or hydrogen car, they could sell me an aerodynamic cube on wheels, and I’d still buy it. But with competition out there, yes, style still matters.
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:56 pm)All I want to know is why? This is how it went down for me…
1.) Opened the GM-VOLT.COM web site
2.) Looked at that awesome proto/concept on the top of the page.
3.) Clicked on the BREAKING … link.
4.) WTF !!!!!
It honestly looks like a prius with a bowtie. I really like the Kammback. Was it because the concept did not rate well aerodynamically? The thing has no lines to it. Compared to the concept which was full of sweet lines and curves. It was really defined. This looks identical to all the other small sedans out there (ie. prius, civic, focus, fusion etc…). Not to mention the Malibu hood and front end. This car was supposed to stand out. Not only technologically but visually. A+ on the technology (if it works), C- on the visual grade. Keep my name on the list for a MAX MSRP of $21,000.00. If it looks like a Prius, it better COST like a Prius! Man, I am really disappointed. GM, please answer my question…WHY?
Sep 9th, 2008 (12:59 pm)agreed i liked the concept better, as well as the 4 seater vs 5, got a family of 5 so the volt will no longer be an option i can consider, i’m hoping that the stats Ford put out for its Escape EUV are correct, as that is the car i now looking at switching to in fall of 2010.
Volt is still a great car just not for a family of 5
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:03 pm)Naaa
The best thing about the concept is that it DIDN’T look like a GM car! They’ve cut all the great styling out and turned it into a Malibu!
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:06 pm)What a let down. Another small car that looks like everything else. GM had the chance to make a design statment and they have failed. It looks like a cheap rental car that I wouldn’t think twice about buying if it wasnt for the technology. The price tag will be to high for its looks.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:07 pm)I’ve read most of the nearly 700 posts here and I’m dismayed (but not surprised) at the large majority who find the final design so disappointing. Here’s what I’d do IMMEDIATELY if I were in GM’s tight-fitting shoes…..
ATTN GM (Bob Lutz, Bob Boniface, et al):
1) Redesign the grills with DEEPLY-recessed flat BLACK insets (use a pattern like that now used) —before the Volt’s official unveiling*
2) Enlarge the wheel wells as needed to accommodate the largest wheels/tires practical —at least 2 wheel sizes larger if possible
These two relatively minor changes should make the car look MUCH more like the concept car —i.e., make it look BOTH like an aggressive muscle/sports car AND like a user-friendly family commuter car —for very little added manufacturing cost.
* Please note that JPL wind tunnel tests have shown the FRONT of cars (or airplanes) can include very deep recesses with minimal increases in drag; also, please look at the Volt with BLACK grills (thanks to Gordon / #138 here)….. http://www.vector2.com/volt/1.jpg
….and compare the Concept Volt with that in the above link!
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:12 pm)Wow, this is disastrous. GM after making two brilliant moves in selecting the best drivetrain archectecture available (the serial hybrid or extended range EV) and the best (as in longest cycle life, shortest charge time and competitive gravimetric energy density) battery technology available, in A123 that is, (though I am unfamiliar with the competing batteries chemistry but I doubt that it can touch A123′s cycle life) has just blown up their time to shine by making a vehicle that has the capability to (and will though because of this mistake it’ll probly take four years longer) revolutionize the industry look like another dead boring GM car. Is that a Cobalt??!!! C’mon GM! how could a company with such massive resources make such a simple and crippling blunder. The only possible answer is that you are overly averse to risk. This car looks about right for the unispiring cd of .28-.29 that Bob Lutz voiced, This is truly pathetic. I have been telling people for years that aero is more important than weight in EV(and any V) range but I just read some articles where GM seemed surprised to say the same. Yes GM I understand that matching the EV1′s cd would have required unconventional styling. That is a risk you should have taken. I was thinking of buying this car to promote my company but there is no chance now as I don’t want my company to appear as boring as the Volt is.
GM: Take a risk like Toyota did with the Prius, Make the car as revolutionary and efficient on the outside as it is on the inside.
Don’t bring this car to market in its current impotent state.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:18 pm)just a quick follow up, even if this did hold a family of 5, in the current design there is no way i would drop 35,000 to 40,000 on this car.
The concept was so much better looking, and now looking at the before and after pictures it is like some make over gone horribly wrong were they took a lexus and turned it into an 84 rabbit.
it WAS an attractive looking appealing car, WAS being the key word.
again even if it sat 5, i’d pass on this car. I know that fall of 2010 is the big release date for all things EUV for the big auto companies, i look forward to seeing what else is out there now.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:28 pm)I’m kind of dissapointed, the concept car looked pretty amazing but this looks like a regular car, from the non- gas standpoint it’s still hot but it looks to average. They’ve would have taking the world by storm if they left the concept look, why do car companies bother to get bold with concept car just to dumb them down when they go to production I always hated that.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:34 pm)All my excitement about this car just vanished. This thing is fugly.
Well, GM killed the EV-1 now it looks like they’re out to kill the Volt before it ever goes to market.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:39 pm)This is a pretty cool design that Bob Boniface did a few years ago when he was with Chrysler. It’s a hybrid concept called the Intrepid ESX hybrid. I don’t know if it’s possible since it’s on a larger frame but … it would be nice if Bob could have made the Volt look a bit more like the ESX hybrid. I wonder how good the aerodynamic drag was with this car? Probably pretty good. I like the headlights and front end. It has a steep angle windshield like Lamborghinis. The whole car looks pretty good actually.
http://image.automotive.com/f/images/9209459/9604_MTRP_01_I_ESX-C.jpg
http://www.carstyling.ru/resources/concept/96dodge_interpid-esx.jpg
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:40 pm)Nope … no longer for me. The competition will beat them again. Why oh why oh why does GM screw everything up??? It was such a cool idea. The concept car was an instant winner. Now it’s nothing more than a old Malibu with a battery. Sorry.
Toyota will be buying GM at auction.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:45 pm)GM – WHY IN THE WORLD DID YOU DO THIS?????
Who in their right mind would take such a sporty looking concept car and turn it into this?? If I wanted a ‘Green’ car that looks like that I would have already bought a Prius. You almost had a unique car that appealed to those who wanted a cool looking ‘Green’ sporty car. But for some reason you changed it to appeal to the Prius audiance … well heads up GM – Japan already has that market.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:53 pm)review the decision process 9-Sep-08 06:13 am
How much do we need per car to save the company?
$40K
OK, what sells?
Hybrids are hot because they get 50-60mpg
OK. We do a hybrid
Toyota hybrid sells for only 20K.
OK. We make a bigger hybrid
Yeah, but a bigger hybrid only gets 40 mpg.
OK. We make it a LOT BIGGER.
Alright 30 mpg is the sweet spot.
So how can we market this?
Sex, sleek, styling, low profile, green, sporty, high performance.
Great! Electrics have more performance than a Corvette, or a Camaro!
Rick, that will kill the Camaro and Corvette.
OK, OK. Style it like a pig. We can’t kill the Corvette!
Done
Secretary, read back the notes.
Sir, the consensus is we bet the company on a 30 mpg $40,000 hybrid, heavy as a pig, looks like a pig.
OK.
Sep 9th, 2008 (1:57 pm)I think GM ought to consider doing “open source” with us bloggers in future exterior designs. You’d be surprised at how good the software that the open source community makes is. If it needs to be tweaked, someone will come along and provide just the right solution. If the software isn’t too good, the programmer will read about the complaints, listen to suggestions from other programmers and tweak the code accordingly. At a minimum, you can get some really good ideas … things you wouldn’t have thought of by yourself.
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:14 pm)This is a great accomplishment…I do however believe that you might deviate from the “big” grille (formally required for the “big engine” radiator) and morph to the 21st century with the technology you are introducing here! Tradition is what we are deviating from…(no disrespect intended) but the original concept design is much more appealing. You have the stuff…do you have the look to go with it?
Regardless…my name is still on the waiting list and I will place my order when I can…I need to burn my GM credit card points from buying gas these past few months!!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:37 pm)One word: Disappointed
I look at the “top” photo in the banner of the concept and I think “I want one” I see the “production” version and think “I can go buy a prius” … No thanks.
Come on now – Ford/Dodge, what do you have for us?
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:39 pm)WORD JUST IN ,,,,THE ANSWER TO THE QUESTIN
“WHO KILLED THE ELECTRIC CAR?”
WELL G.M. DID OF CROUSE!!!!
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:40 pm)The interior will make or break the car;
G.M. comfortable seats.
High tech instrument cluster.
Heads up display.
Sturdy knobs.
Modern colors.
…how ’bout some women models next time:-)
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:43 pm)What are you people smoking? GM has turned a ripping eat ‘em for breakfast, spit ‘em out and eat ‘em again for lunch kind of mean machine into a cookie-cutter blah sedan. It’s not even the same vehicle! But what should we expect from GM when it comes to electric vehicles? Remember, they did crush the first EVs. This time they’ve certainly crushed the Volt’s style. Then we all know what kind of bugs first gen GM vehicles have. GM’s track record on first generation vehicle quality is atrocious. Just look at our wonderful Solstice. Anyone care to guess how many diffs it’s chewed through? Or my Chevy HHR? How many brake rotors it’s gone through?
So could it be that GM is not making a whole-hearted attempt at the EV market once again knowing what it faces in the quality department, leaving it to the Fisker (which, by the way GM has a stake in) and the equally stylish Tesla for the moneybags and the Prius for the rest of us? Remember, GM has some serious financial troubles, the recent recall can’t be helping. If GM doesn’t get its act together it’ll be easy pickings at the auction block.
All I can say is, we’re not spending 40k on a Toyota Camry/GM sedan hybrid with serious quality issues – we’ll gut our Solstice and convert it to electric first!
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:45 pm)Thanks Nasaman #700,
From my European viewpoint, the production model is the one of a normal contemporary car.
I understand that a majority of the comments are negative because expectations have been so high, and when I say I prefer the production model it is a reasoned choice, my emotional choice goes evidently to the concept.
However IMHO it should be possible to change the look of the production model by subtle and not so subtle changes like the ones you advocate.
I’m not a specialist of car design and I do not really care provided the Volt and its cousins could make us efficiently and for a reasonable cost independent from oil. THAT IS A LOT MORE IMPORTANT THAN ANYTHING ELSE.
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:54 pm)There’s no way I’d pay $40K or more for this lump of boring style mediocrity. GM, did you ask anyone other than stiff executives to opine on your run-of-the-mill design? Focus groups? Consultants? Even your wives, kids, or neighbors?
As of this point, GM, it appears that you’re missing most everyone whose interest you had piqued with the concept model. By apparently attempting to avoid risk you’re strangling yourself because the Volt’s appeal is now backsliding into an already overserved market segment.
If this is the final production design, I think your waiting list just got much shorter.
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:56 pm)Who are all those ugly (and some nerdy) guys?
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:57 pm)Along with the majority of others, I would like to voice my resounding disappointment in these “leaked” photos…..I could hardly believe it was actually the same vehicle as described in the original concept vehicle….
I was one of the first purchasers of the Honda S2000 (Vehichle #254) when it first came to the US with the first reason being technology, and the second being styling……..How did GM miss these two basic requirements for entry into the market?
Going to withdraw my name from the GM Volt listing of interested purchasers……GM very disappointed….did you do any market research into the response by the consumers…….?
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:58 pm)I have my outlet ready…all I need is that car!
Sep 9th, 2008 (2:59 pm)I am dissapointed with the design of the car in comparision to the concept vehicle. I was looking forward to something with quite an edge in looks. I will probably still want to buy because I want to get away from the gas pump, but hope it will be redesigned in a few areas to make it more sharp looking.
J Gough
Sep 9th, 2008 (3:01 pm)Count me off the waiting list for this hump-back malibu! If GM would have stayed with the exciting lines of the concept there would have been a Palin like following. What a huge let down by GM again.
Sep 9th, 2008 (3:16 pm)I love the looks of this car, especially the color. If it was in a showroom I would buy it. Having said that I would be making my purchase not because of its looks but for what’s under the hood. This is a revolutionary automobile. I don’t think that this site became popular because the concept volt was such a hot looking car. I think the real excitement for this car has to do with its very real ability to keep us away from the gas pump. I am thrilled about that and I aplaud GM and the Volt team for making the dream come true. I can hardly wait to get mine.
Sep 9th, 2008 (3:22 pm)I like the concept volt better! but this car will still sell.
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:09 pm)This car sucks! It looks like everything else GM has. IT’s part impala, malibu. This is just another let down from GM. They could have saved millions if they would have just developed the battery system for the malibu and impala and built battery versions of the car. They could have also used the new CTS. That would have been a really nice looking electric car. The only thing GM stuck to was the 2010 camaro.
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:12 pm)If they produce it looking that that , I won’t be interested in buying one.
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:18 pm)That is a far cry from the concept vehicle. They should consider putting out both cars. The family version and the sports car version
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:19 pm)The car the way it looks won’t sell for $30K or over. I’m not whining , just stating facts.
GM needs to realize this styling needs a price point of under $30K.
Those who talk of not buying one need to realize that if GM comes in under $30K they reconsider buying one even if it looks like an economy car.
How else was GM going to get this car mass produced by 2010? Let’s be a little realistic here.
Maybe the gov can inject some cash into GM and Ford (everyone’s given up on Chrysler & they’ve burned through numerous handouts already) by subsidizing a large part of our purchase of a Volt. God knows they already subsidize the poor and the rich to the tune of trillions already. I think I heard McCain insinuate such a plan in his speech last week.
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:19 pm)#353 I was calling the GTO a clone of the Holden , anyway GM is BS the car looks like a Prius, the concept looked like a kool sporty car & GREEN wifey was looking towards it & so was I, but I’m looking for other green car that have some POWER & LOOKS that can be purchased by the regular guy, I can afford the Fisker, hell even the Tesla but I would rather have an everyday electro muscle car that would be the best but they ways things are going my 1 yr boy will grow up for those days which is kool also, I can see it now year 2018 & he’s driving a new Mustang Gt all electro but getting what 75-80 mpg or 600 per charge but with HP of 400 !! or more yeah that would be nice lolo ok im done dreaming back to the nightmare called Volt it’s a ‘family’ sedan boring…..
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:30 pm)Aaron hit it right on the head ‘crusty ‘ol white guys’ lolol this car is boooooooring ! this car is for a person who works in a office cube doing the same task everyday. I dont think it will get a 2nd look when going down the road. the concept was a low slung car I’ve never seen a concept just go away from the production version, what happened ?
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:42 pm)The concept was a good start. Why does GM not get that at least some consumers do not like ugly vehicles? Consumers do not like poor performance. They do not like refueling every day. They want to be able to travel at least 400 miles before refueling. Personally, I would prefer to not have to refuel at all, but that is likely not going to happen anytime soon. They want to be able to travel both in the city and on the highway with performance comparable to any other vehicle. AND they want the total cost of ownership to be less than or equal to the existing alternatives. Nobody says to themselves, “Oh, there’s an ugly vehicle. I want it!” They say something more like, “Wow! That’s an ugly sucker! There better be a significant advantage to it!” And if there is not, then it is see ya later-ville and no looking back..
It’s the total package that sells. C’mon GM! You can do it! Maybe next year?
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:48 pm)Once, JUST ONCE, I wish they would wow us with the concept…and do the right thing and make it look like the CONCEPT!! This is not inspiring to me at all. Does nothing for me, has NO style, and looks like all the other hybrids out there. Ugly for the sake of being ugly. Had they made this look like the concept, no question, BIG SELLER. Now…ho hum styling. At least Dodge can make some ballsy looking cars and trucks. But their quality sucks. Looks like I’ll stick with Acura…again.
Sep 9th, 2008 (4:55 pm)OK, what the heck happened to the masculine HOT car that GM has been touting and showing around the world, making it the anchor to the Olympic commercials. This looks like a watered down toyota product. Very disappointing.
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:00 pm)Here i have changed the grill like the last person but also changed the headlights and rear of the car.
http://pcedgeware.com/images/voltRedo.jpg
I couldnt do much with the rear at this angle. Just bored!
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:07 pm)Geeze, what a dissappointment. I will never know why executives do these things. But turning the space aged beauty of the VOLT into a Prius looking junk heap of crap jst killed the excitement of this once sought after vehicle. Ya I know, “I dont care what it looks like…” Sure, whatever you say.
I can’t wait till DODGE “borrows” your design and puts out the awesome ZEO! Geeze, what is wrong with making cars that look amazing? Is that a crime or something? I should have known it was too good to be true. Please don’t pretend that you think this thing is awesome looking. I beg you, don’t!
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:17 pm)Maybe they don’t want this car to be a success! The EV1 came out and didn’t do anything. The concept was a car that many would want, but why would you pay so much for such a plain looking car. Shoot, I’ll just go buy a VW TDI and get 55MPG and not do anything to it.
This version is lame, un interesting and dull compared to the concept. The only real design point that crossed over is the lines on the hood…WTF over? Come on guys…build the car the way it should be build so you can have a real winner!
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:24 pm)Come on all you naysayers, is is really that bad? Yes, GM had a great looking car. Yes, thousands were excited about buying the Volt. Yes, there seemed to be a new excitement that had long ago departed from the showroom floors of the American dealerships. Yes, we were all getting ready to spend nearly $40K for this innovative vehicle. But, look at the bright side, those of us who have been paying attention can now short the stock. Toyota you can relax now it was just a false alarm.
This is conclusive evidence that GM has recommitted itself to mediocrity and that all of the American ingenuity reside squarely with those pharmaceutical companies who make that little blue pill.
GM, this will be a HUGE mistake but I know you few élites have all the answers–after all we’re just the customers.
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:32 pm)What the heck? Wow, what a mess, look, another rounded nondescript GM car that is happens to be electric. What a total crash and burn. If this was GM’s great hope, better dump my remaining stock, as even I will not buy this. This has as much visual interest as a brick. (Wait,… the brick may have more!) How do I unsubscribe to the newsletters? This product is dead to me.
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:36 pm)After such a long wait, this is a big disappointment. I was waiting for a car company to build a flashy electric sports car that is priced for the average person (unlike the Tesla). This production version is so far away from the beautiful concept that I’ve lost my interest. I’m embarassed that I got so many others excited about GM and this concept car. Anyone else tired of waiting for a car company to understand what we want in a “green” sports car? We want a car that is environmentally sound, still a fun drive, and it doesn’t make us feel like we just traded in our Nissan 350Z for a Dodge Neon. This isn’t a whole lot more than a prius in the style department. I’m sure the waitlist will be impacted by this poor production design decision.
Sep 9th, 2008 (5:57 pm)BLECH. What happened to the sleek angular front end? This car looks so boring. Why can’t car makers ever make the production models look like the concept cars? This looks like somebody pushed the “round-off-the-front-end-and-make-it-look-like-every-other-car-that was-designed-by-a-computer” button. This will be the second time that GM killed the electric car…with bad looks! Consider me formerly excited, now disappointed. And American car companies wonder why we buy foreign cars…this car is butt ugly.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:10 pm)Not impressed with the new look. Is anybody noticing the similar lines to the prius and the cobolt. GM should be trying to break the mold with this one. too vanilla for me, but i will still be the first in line to get one.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:11 pm)Holy…744 comments. It looks fine from what can be seen. Certainly not a head turner like the concept but much better than a Prius. It’s more like a cross between a new Civic and a Lexus IS250, IMO.
My biggest concern is that I don’t see how the hatchback is structured. I looks like the lid break goes right to the window as if it a trunk lid and not a hatchback. There should be a break running parrallel to the rear window for the frame. I also don’t understand the break that continues below the left rear taillight and down to the wheel well.
T2 pix and these indicate the plug is in the molding preceeding the side mirror support where it says “VOLT”.
It better have a refined interior and nice ride for $35+K in addition to 40 miles AER and 50 mpg range extended.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:19 pm)UGH! A 4 door! Granny’s everywhere will be happy.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:26 pm)Personally, I’m very disappointed in the look… It’s as boring as the current generation Prius… A civic looks beter in my opinion. They should have been setting a new standard here. A HUGE disappointment….
I just hope they do a better job with the interior (but I after seeing this I expect a slightly tweaked Cobalt)
One can only hope the performance lives up to the hype… The looks sure don’t
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:33 pm)Well, seeing what I’m seeing I believe I’ll look more closely at a DIY electric car. A Mazda Miata with an AC motor, controller and lithium batteries would fit my needs, and I believe I could build my own for half the price of the new Volt.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:47 pm)I don’t know if I like it any more… I liked the sportier look.
Sep 9th, 2008 (6:48 pm)WOW, a GM Prius! If I wanted one of those, I’d buy a Prius now and some GM emblems and put them on. Seriously though, I’m so bummed they got rid of the “gangsta” look by raising the hood so high. I liked the original look so much I was even willing to buy an ICE only version (not that one is available, but if it was, I’d buy it to have the original look).
Signed,
“Sorry GM’s design are falling on their face” AMERICAN car buyer.
P.S. – maybe I should give up on American. After all, American car company’s employees watch foreign made TV, listen to foreign made cell phones, and enforce foreign made content on their product. What’s the point anymore? We no longer have American made textile industry……. (I’m not mad, I’m just bummed out big time.)
P.S.S – Oh yeah, almost forgot. Take my name off the waiting list. I’m not buying it now.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:13 pm)WOW. WHAT A LET DOWN. LOOKS A LOT MY HONDA CIVIC HYBRID. HIGHLY DISAPPOINTED. LIKED THE RACEY PROTO TYPE, A WHOLE LOT BETTER. I’M NO LONGER INTERESTED IN THE CAR.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:14 pm)Pretty Prius looking I think… I liked the concept car far better. If I wanted a Prius looking vehicle with a chevy bowtie I would have got a prius.. nothing like looking like an egg rolling down the highway… fuel saved or not… I won’t buy one now… take me off the wish list..
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:21 pm)If I had wanted a Camero, I would have bought one. No, wait…
Guess I’ll just hold out for a Fisker in 2018.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:27 pm)FYI for all, there’s a new poll up on the main page of gm-volt.com, where you can vote for which Volt design — the concept or the production model — you prefer:
http://gm-volt.com/2008/09/09/gm-denies-intentionally-leaking-photos-of-production-volt-plus-preference-poll/
Only about 1400 votes so far, but pretty strongly leaning toward a preference for the original concept design.
I guess the next thing we need is a “Take Me Off the GM-Volt Wait List” link, right below the “Get on the GM-Volt Wait List” link. From the looks of the comments here, a removal link might become the most popular place on the whole site! I’m really interested to see how many of the currently 40,000+ people on the wish list will remove themselves after seeing the production model design.
Sep 9th, 2008 (7:53 pm)BOOOOOO! ! ! GM you dropped the ball ! ! Your design was a sportscar! Your design was awesome You had it both! Style and responsibility! Now it looks like the prius. BORING!
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:00 pm)D’oh.
How do take a sporty/classy Covette/Cadilac mini sportser and turn it into another generic hybrid four door.
I read some of the internal info on this site stating that four doors is what the people want. Well, they may want it, but they will not love it.
The prototype at top left will show people that “green” is fun and frisky and loveable.
In the end, recognition as major manufacturer with its toe on the green line will not endear you to the sustainable future people, nor will you captivate the people who want a 50+ mpg gas/electric car.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:04 pm)Look, if the Volt is going to look like a Civic, it should be priced like a hybrid civic. That would put it about $26k. At that price this car should fly off the shelf. But with out the very strong look of the concept, don’t expect people to buy based on look. Hate to burst your bubbles, but most people buy cars based on looks, not technology. Fact. Even Prius buyers bought the car for the looks. You will find many many would be Prious owners that refused to buy the car because of the way it looked. Looks matter.
Please look at this link and think http://news.cnet.com/8301-11128_3-10036121-54.html
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:28 pm)the grill looks so fake….
but I will add my voice to those who don’t care it does not look liek the production car. Drive your hot looking gas guzzler to keep the likes of Russia and Venezuala rich. I’ll do my part to make this country less oil dependent and drive a vehicle that can do what I need it to do.
Once enough of these sell then the sportier looking ones will come along. It’s called the funding cycle. GM needs to make money first and I am sorry if that appeals to the practical needs first. Feel free to start your own electric car company, and good luck getting the venture capital with you ‘business plan’.
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:35 pm)I am very glad to see all of the enthusiasm for the Volt! It IS the way of the future!! I must say that I’m extremely disappointed in the look though. The concept is SOOO much cooler! I am dumbfounded that everyone is excited about what it ended up looking like. I mean, it is not dog ugly or anything, but it’s not very impressive to me. Sorry guys
Don’t hate me!
Chris
(From New Castle, Indiana)
Sep 9th, 2008 (8:37 pm)From a design standpoint…this is disapointing…
They took a edgy, cutting edge, futuristic cool and sporty design that any car buff would be proud to drive, and managed to turn it into a mommy/daddy nerd blaase grocery getter type ride basically eliminating any character that the car had. And I have to say that I REALLY liked the prototype design alot. I am not sure what they were thinking here…feeling very let down in this aspect. Still they deserve cudo’s for being the first to bring to production line a series hybrid, would like to see this car with a small diesel engine so one could run biodiesel though
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:03 pm)I have to say that the car looks ok, but as I expected it lost all the looks that got me here in the first place. I like function, but I have to have a super stand out type of car also. The prototype was all of that for me and I really wanted this car to retain much of what brought me here in the first place. You can take me off the list please.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:26 pm)Boo, It looks like all the other GM car’s in there lineup. Nothing to make it stand out from the crowd and say look at me. I’m a plug in hybrid. The prototype was awsome. I was hoping for looks like that. All this new technology and no new body style is stupid GM. I was getting to ready to buy some stock since it’s so low right now but now I’m not so sure since I’m getting madder and madder as I type this. Well at least it looks better than a Prius.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:43 pm)How sad! They went from sleek and alluring to totally lame. This is not the car I’ve been waiting on. If this is what will be produced I’ll keep waiting.
Sep 9th, 2008 (9:55 pm)what bothers me the most is I talked countless people into buying this car and getting excited about GM’s recovery and creation of a head-turning, technologically advanced vehicle and now I have mud on my face and a reputation to match! Everyone I got excited is pissed. They think the watered down production version sucks. The excitement is gone. The want is gone. The deal is broken and it didn’t have to be…it really didn’t. A tweak here or there is to be expected but this IS NOT the Volt they have been showing continuously since January 2007. It’s not even close! How can anyone at GM say that you will be able to see the resemblance. To a Prius, sure.
I’m not buying one. Not at all. I’ll buy an EREV from someone else who keeps style, flare, and head turning intact. Apparently we were all bamboozled by the concept and the commercials that kept showing it. All along we thought we’d have a car with most of the elements of the concept intact. How we were wrong and I also feel we have been pretty much misled. Shame on GM for pulling the rug out from under us. Shame on the design team for allowing it to stray so far from the concept. Shame on management for running after a Prius look a like. So you thought you had to copy the competition in order to be successful eh? Is that it? You should have trusted us, your loyal followers GM….you should have trusted us.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:06 pm)I am very disappointed. I absolutely loved the concept. I was anticipating a totally new look expecially with a price tag like they are talking about. It looks more like something my grandmother would enjoy.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:08 pm)Very disappointed, but not surprised.
What is the point of a concept vehicle if they never produce them?
As usual, GM has built another boring car for the seniors and soccer Mom’s….maybe.
Show us one thing-set the bait, get us excited, then switch to another. I won’t buy one. Looks like the car designs from the 80′s when all cars looked alike- except for the grills and tail lights. I guess good design is a dying art.
This looks nothing like the concept. If you look real hard, you will see similarities… like they both have tires and headlights.
I’ve been following the volt developement and GM let me down for the last time. Goodbye GM.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:41 pm)The proto-type looked awesome. They killed the looks. Instead of looking cool like a sportscar it looks looks like a family car. Huge mistake. I couldn’t wait for it to come out. But now forget it. I will not buy one. From the side to the back it reminds me of the Prius.
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:45 pm)Holy Crap…Leave it to idiot unartistic american engineers to screw up a hot concept car and turn it into an ugly mom mobile. Jesus christ you GM dummies are just gonna go under aren’t you? Dumb and dumber are running this company
Sep 9th, 2008 (10:47 pm)WOW >>>GM YOU BLEW IT WHAT, WERE YOU THINKING, What Century are you people frome Wake TFU..YOU JUST LOST 90 percent of potential buyers including me ..People do not want to spend their hard earned money on an ugly ordinary boring car. You had a chance to show the world somthing , You showed them the reason why your closing plants and laying off american workers.
Gm you need to get you Upper Execs some Glasses or maybe an eye exam…
DJ Jamm
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:13 pm)Its nice,but I LOVED the concept version a billion times more. but still goodlooking.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:19 pm)You Completely ruined the volt !!! It no longer looks cool and sporty it looks like the new camry. What happened to the sleek body lines?
It looked like an expensive sports car now it looks like every other car out there.
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:25 pm)I agree with 771 & 774…..what happened!!!!!!!
This is not the car I’ve seen at the show, what is this a bait and switch, or some sick joke….enough playing around…where’s my volt? I’ll pay, but not for that crap!
Sep 9th, 2008 (11:49 pm)No thank you; I’ll stick with my Prius. What happened to the sleek looking concept car that turned into a Corolla. Yuck! No wonder American car makers are in the dumper. I’m off the list.
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:02 am)Its not just about the looks, we all know that.
Ignore the haters.
Your on the right track, just keep it coming GM.
I don’t want the competitors bringing the next wave of technology to the masses.
I want you to do it, there is much more at stake here.
I’m just a retail clerk but I am a GM guy!
My wife and I have Three ‘Vettes. Two are restored Stingrays and one is a C-5 like new and has a supercharger. We bought a new colorado last year and its been great.
We want a Chevy plug in car as a daily driver-work car.
We have been really talking up the VOLT to everybody.
Just keep the price down and make it as reliable as can be.
I know you can do it.
Godspeed!!!
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:06 am)whoa whoa whoa!!!! Whats this??? That looks nothing like the volt I’ve been waiting for!!! That looks more like all the other neo-bulgy hybrid cars! What happened to the volt that looked like the new camero? Like the picture in the top left of the screen? Maybe I’m missing something, I’m gonna look around for an explanation.
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:09 am)Looks like GM has screwed the pooch again.
The concept car looked amazing. This is a pile of shit. Bob Lutz and the crew have created a car that, yet again, proves that GM’s design department has only put together a car by committee.
Why can’t the General come out with a car that looks, I don’t know, half-way decent? i.e, something BAD-ASS looking?
I know, I know…stupid government regulations will be the b.s reply. This car is a MASSIVE letdown, and as far as I can tell, looks NOTHING like what we were promised from the concept car.
What this cements in my mind is that GM has committed to NOT trying to grab the attention of the youth market. DUMP YOUR GM SHARES BEFORE THEY ARE WORTHLESS!
ooh…FIre the CEO of GM, while we are at it. Bob, you get off easy. You get to retire.
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:13 am)>> I don’t want the competitors bringing the next wave of technology to the masses.
To the masses?
Even with the far more realistic look now, a vehicle selling for close to $40K with annual production only growing to 200,000 by 2015 certainly will not reach many consumers. Heck, the new hybrid from Honda will sell for half that price and have a volume of 200,000 next year.
Making a true difference is rarely what publicity hype leads you to desire. In fact, the actual change is self-defeating. You don’t want a vehicle that stands out in a crowd… you want it to become the crowd.
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:14 am)and as far as the above comment about us ‘haters,’ I’d be willing to bet most of them were guys that were eagerly awaiting a hybrid car that they could be proud to drive! Why is it that every hybrid car has to look (for lack of a better word) gay?
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:18 am)Nice pixels.
Ship date? Specs? Volume?
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:22 am)Nothing like teasing the world with the concept car design, then changing it to run of mill compact car styling. HUGE departure from the concept. It will be a hard sell between $30-40K now. I thought GM was starting to take more risks with bolder designs ie. Saturn, Caddy CTS, etc. In fact, the bolder designs and quality improvements brought me back to GM when the Saturn Outlook came out. Bought one in February. The idea of the Volt is great but they should have kept the design closer to the concept. This is a step backwards. The buzz will wear off now and that is not what GM needs.
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:26 am)wow… I would say the design is a major let down, it looks like a cheesy econo-box, rather than the electric pioneer I have seen photos of… What are they thinking?!?!?!?!?! Talk about a wannabe prius, this version looks like the nerdy relative of the original stud… I hope they offer the ORIGINAL DESIGN that has been shown at car shows, rather than this grandma version… If they offer both styles they might be able to appeal to ALL age groups.. If they only offer this grandma poop-mobile style I think GM will certainly continue to circle the toilet… OMG… this is soooo LAME!!!
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:26 am)WTF!!! I feel TOTALLY misled by GM. This is NOTHING like we were led to believe GM was developing. I don’t want a pudgy Malibu/Prius thingy. GM had a chance to blow the market wide open with an edgy design that would attract a whole new generation of GM buyers. Now they’ve reduced their market down to a bunch of aging hip accountant types. Cancel my order. This car is a geeky embarrassment.
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:45 am)[...] to dream up: Here’s the forum with more pics where I posted my feelings(comments 778 & 779) GM-VOLT : Chevy Volt Electric Car Site
Sep 10th, 2008 (1:09 am)all Im hearing is funeral music in the background…GM killed the electric car..AGAIN..
its funny but Ive read this car looks like… followed by about 50 different makes and models.. they’ve created the frakenvolt.. looks like just about every other car so they hope it will please every person just enough so they buy it… bad bad move…Ill deal with the gas prices.
Ill be watching the documentary in 2012… I am so dissapointed I will never by GM again for this let down.. and every car Ive owned has been a GM.. one more customer lost…european sounds good… lyle please add a remove me from the list button.
Sep 10th, 2008 (1:21 am)Just a remark : we are 2 days after the leak, and if we follow this thread the bias is negative, … but observe the numbers on the waiting list : they are still increasing.
If we subtract the number of the readers who asked Lyle to remove them from the list, (I didn’t not count but it is a rough approximation) the total of the list will still be above 40,500.
OPEC is reducing its oil production starting today, IMO we need this car to get rid of oil, not to promote our ego.
Sep 10th, 2008 (1:28 am)I can hear the narrator on the next documentary
“now we know who killed the electric car”
General Motors achieved a huge buzz of interest with a bold new concept electric hybrid, but it wasn’t their idea to go ahead and do it, so they completely destroyed the car’s image and seemed to have shot the electric car, unfortunately for them, the bullet ricochet back to them and appear GM has been dealt a death blow and is now hopelessly bleeding to death, I am off the list
Sep 10th, 2008 (1:33 am)jean..your theory would be accurate.. accept not everyone follows this site daily.. prob not even 10 percent.. alot signed up awile ago (when the car was not 40-50k) and also the car wont be out till 2010..
most people likely signed up and forgot about it. or every couple of months they check back.. thats my guess…not to mention people who signed up and there email gets closed from switching Internet providers or something.. and re-signed up using another address.. as well as the .. its not binding and I wanna know when this comes out so put me on the list crowd.. you’ll find the so called “waiting list” isn’t even near an accurate number. thats just the way these things work..
now If they took a deposit.. you could use that.
Sep 10th, 2008 (1:58 am)Are all of you brain-washed???
What happened to the cool looks?
This thing looks like a pregnant rollerskate!
GM, once again, shows TOTAL lack of imagination!!! (e.g. the new GTO)
PU!
TAKE ME OFF THE LIST!
Sep 10th, 2008 (4:28 am)OK Phil # 788
I agree with your comment, … I hope I can live to see what will happen in the next three years. Lyle and gm-volt.com made the life very exiting (well there are other ways … outside the car industry.).
Sep 10th, 2008 (5:39 am)Who killed the electric car……….TWICE?
Sep 10th, 2008 (6:33 am)Well….they ruined the design and made it look ordinary and my desire for it is gone. Great job. A really cool looking car has been redesigned into an ordinary boring looking car.
Sep 10th, 2008 (7:22 am)Leak? This isn’t a leak, this is a PR spin. If they don’t release it soon and for a reasonable price, GM will be completely bankrupt. When pictures leak, they don’t have a bunch of over paid executives in Italians suits in front of the vehicle. That explains why the price is going to be in the upper 30′s, they have to get their 1 million + base salary and still collecting bonuses for a company that is not making a profit.
Sep 10th, 2008 (7:30 am)here is what my friends from Columbus, Ohio just sent me via email….pretty much sums it up…(they haven’t bought a domestic car in years and this was going to be their first away from BMW)
You can take me off of your volt news list Kevin
I officially HATE this version of the car….
Very sad really, I did want one…not now
Chevy blew it….
Sep 10th, 2008 (7:32 am)I have followed the pre-life and now real life of the Volt for some time now. And I find these 800 comments both enlightening and entertaining. My wife and I have owned Jap cars for 6 years. I drove a Mustang before that. I still plan on driving a Chevy Volt. I am standing behind America and behind the need for the public to get off of the oil habit for good. Smooth quiet acceleration, no more leaky head gaskets, no more smog checks, no more morning engine crank problems….ect. If noone had ever seen “the concept” I feel we would be pretty jazzed with the Volt design. Have another look at it. And visualize in your favorite color. Again, thanks everyone for the super comments. Will continue watching all the way past post 1000.
Sep 10th, 2008 (7:48 am)This has to be a record for posts. Glad I never ticked the notify me box for this one. lol.
I think it’s nicer than the Prius, and way, way, better the the egg shaped iMIEV. I wonder how much the panel beater will charge to fix the flared wheels so it matches the concept?
NO plug NO sale.
LJGTVWOTR
Sep 10th, 2008 (8:06 am)Shame on General Motors for the “bait and switch” Marketing Campaign they pulled on us consumers. As recent as the Olympics they ran commercials featuring the “concept” design, thus leading individuals to believe the design would be closely paralleled. I personally believe their Marketing strategy is going to backfire. There is a fine line between Marketing and Manipulation…..and they have crossed the line. Only time will tell, but I believe they will see a decrease in market share and customer loyalty due to this initiative.
Sep 10th, 2008 (8:17 am)What a Disappointment! Looks like another rental fleet vehicle.
Sep 10th, 2008 (8:40 am)Oh well….. Another Chevy Clone.
Honda…. I’m with you!!!
PS… i want off the list.!!
Sep 10th, 2008 (8:42 am)Pss
Chevy can Bait and Switch… And so can we…..!!!
Sep 10th, 2008 (8:50 am)Possible eye-catching sports coup morphed into a “SCR MOM” lemming-mobile. Those disjointed mirrors won’t last a day in any major city before being knocked off.
GM is living up to its reputation of relentlessly beating its concepts cars with the ugly stick to make sure they don’t make ripples in whatever stagnant pond they are mired in.
Fire up the crusher GM! Time to give those EV1s some company!
Sep 10th, 2008 (8:53 am)WAIT!!!!! WAIT!!!!!! WAIT A MINUTE EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have a great idea. Why don’t we all show off a great design at the Detroit Autoshow, and then …. we can throw away the looks of the car, then start all over again, then we can retool our plants, spend a bazillion dollars, show the folks a different car, ??????
What do Y”ALL THINK?????
Sep 10th, 2008 (9:34 am)The production body design is now beany-Japanese, all look the same for the lemmings. Too bad, but I’ll still buy one. Maybe the concept style can be re-used on a hopped up version?
Sep 10th, 2008 (9:35 am)I don’t like the looks of the current prototype. The car I was excited about was original and sporty. That’s what I was looking for. Something that no one else had on the road yet. I don’t think I will buy the car as it looks in the current picture.
Sep 10th, 2008 (9:44 am)Correction, I will be buying one for my wife only since she has no interest in anything but the practical elements of driving. I will not drive such a fugly, looks like 200 other 4 door sedans, bland, automobile. Absolutley NOTHING was preserved from the OUTSTANDING, NEW, WAY COOL, concept design – too bad, too bad.
Sep 10th, 2008 (9:56 am)Glad I ordered one……A little bum’d out that it looks like a Ford Fusion from the side. Driving most of GM’s newer models I honestly think that they can pull some consumer demand with this one.
Look at the average hybrid vehicle out there….A bit plain and boring!. Regarding performance, there isn’t much competition. Have you ever tried hanging a corner in a Prius? Well, don’t!!! It won’t end well……
Sep 10th, 2008 (10:19 am)hi AUTOORACLE,
You ordered one? What were the terms? Down payment and total out-the-door? Will you be trading in?
Things I am looking forward to:
1>Engine pick up.
2>Handling ~ Weight being centered and low.
3>Interior and associated hook ups ~ touch screen.
4>Quiet at all speeds ~ The sound system will sound terrific.
5>Low drag design cutting through the air.
6>Listening to my wife beg to drive it as her 26 MPG Accord sits outside.
Sep 10th, 2008 (10:53 am)REAL NICE!!!!! THE REAR DOES NOT QUITE LOOK RIGHT HOWEVER. I PREFER THE CONCEPT CAR REAR END BETTER, BUT I STILL WANT ONE, NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sep 10th, 2008 (10:56 am)It looks better than a Prius. Bolder looking. It seems to maintain the detail work of the concept, but is much more rounded for aerodynamics. Given the car’s major objective is efficiency, I’m okay with that. Remember, the grill is closed and that has changed the front of the car too. I also don’t think the lighting is these photos show the car as well as those of the concept. I think it looks good for a compact-size electric car. It is a big step forward from the EV1.
Sep 10th, 2008 (11:14 am)My question is simple does this car actually bear any relationship with the show car? It’s looks more like a pastich version applied to the Malibu. The show car was far superior and edgy. I have little interest in this car.
This is very dissapointing.
The mechanicals are the most interesting part of this vehicle. When will the cars guys actually be in control of new products from this Company? Where is Bob Lutz?
I guess I’m going to have to stay with Toyota and Honda hybrids.
Sep 10th, 2008 (11:34 am)In typically GM fashion, they took an awesome looking concept and gave it the watered down look by bolting new panels to a Malibu.
Could GM not come up with something that did not look like a Toyota Prius on steroids????? Very Disappointed……….. No Edge……… Soft and for the masses…….. Like they are targeting current hybrid owners……………. It’s not a next generation style, like the concept was…………… Bring out the Cadillac design team!
Sep 10th, 2008 (11:38 am)Very disappointed, the concept car was great-this is just another car. If this is what is coming out in 2010 then take me off the list.
Sep 10th, 2008 (11:45 am)I am 39849 on the list. Pricing is important to be competitive with Toyota’s hybrid.
Nice leaf frog
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:26 pm)GM teases us with the new Camaro and the Volt. The bowtie brigade could stand proud again. And now pictures…uh…well… sorry, I don’t like it. Yet, I understand it, but I don’t like it (like death and taxes). The design is nice and I am confident the design is in place to provide the highest level of fuel economy possible. That is great and is necessary as GM tries to bail out of the fiscal mess that it is let itself become (and yes, I’m a shareholder and very upset with the management of the soon to be 2nd largest automaker).
I think the car will help GM move forward…2010 though is way too far away. I am not sure if I will stay on the list though. I still like my individuality in my vehicles (and I am green with solar on my home and water re-use processes) and I was hoping for a nice bridge between green, performance, and styling ethos.
Perhaps the Tesla will come down in price…perhaps the Zero will become a major street motorcycle…perhaps GM will come out with a sport version (maybe in the Camaro)
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:35 pm)Im highly disappointed it looks like a Prius mixed with a 90s model Pontiac lemons.
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:41 pm)THIS SUCKS!! nothing like the concept. check out the FISKER Karma. big bucks but WAY BETTER!
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:44 pm)hi kb,
Won’t argue on this… the Camaro is something special. Would love to see a 200 HP electric motor with this body style. Also add a next generation 10 minute charge battery. Light and quick.
http://garfwod.250free.com/camaro2009.jpg
Sep 10th, 2008 (12:46 pm)THIS SUCKS!! nothing like the concept. check out the FISKER Karma. big bucks but WAY BETTER! i’m bummed. i wanted a volt.
Sep 10th, 2008 (2:02 pm)C’est simple, on veut une voilure écologique qui ne pollue pas et qui ne coûte pas cher.
Pourquoi est-ce compliqué?
C’est urgent! On ne veut plus utiliser du pétrole.
On veut des voitures électriques de qualité.
Moi aussi, j’ai hâte d’avoir ma Chevy.
Sep 10th, 2008 (2:04 pm)Here is my observation. I remeber reading in the FAQ that the Volt is a 4 seater. How many 4 door 4 seaters do you rememder? I wonder if its changed to a five seater?
Sep 10th, 2008 (2:20 pm)Yuck, total let down. Removing myself from the intrest list. I agree, get the Cadi design team on this.
Sep 10th, 2008 (3:14 pm)Time for a chop shop to chop the top, flare the finders, weld the back doors and repaint. Four doors will be a better seller then two but it still sucks. I couldn’t wait to drive the consept car and now I question weather I will be driving the Volt. Two marks against it, four doors and a price of over 30k. I don’t know guys……….
Sep 10th, 2008 (3:17 pm)I am disappointed as well. The original concept looked really nice and as others have stated this car looks like all the rest. I was really looking forward to purchasing one of these but if this is what it will look like then I think I will look around at some others. Please bring back the orginal design.
Sep 10th, 2008 (3:34 pm)And Ladies and Gentlemen….don’t forget that GM always SPAYS and NEUTERS its new production models.
Sep 10th, 2008 (3:36 pm)WTF….. I’m not paying for this nonsence….!!!! Where is the car that I have been dreaming about for months now. I have a 1993 Mazda 323 that I have been nursing along ever since I saw the concept car. I have convinced the wife to hold out on getting a new car until the VOLT hits the show rooms in 2010 but this is crazy…!!!!, and I’m pissed. I’m not giving anyone $40K for that crap. I’m better off buying a “Prius”. I feel as though I have been ripped off or something. Why are you doing this…!!!??!!! Mr. Lutz…, where is my VOLT that you promised…!!!!????!!!!
Sep 10th, 2008 (3:39 pm)This model SAGS. If they’ve stripped down the beauty THIS MUCH then the price tag needs to drop below $20K. Otherwise, I’ll wait for technology (and it’s out there now) to come up with 100% electric, more than 40 miles to a charge, and a price the average joe can afford – $20k and lower.
This is a competition – may the best manufacturer win, so we do too.
Sep 10th, 2008 (3:41 pm)Wait, what is the drag coefficient of a Corvette???? Why doesn’t GM just drop the Volt technology into the body of a corvette and call it a day.
They would sell more. A stunning low drag design has been done before, why can’t they do it again?
Or perhaps…GM purposely leaked these photos to mislead the competition……
Sep 10th, 2008 (3:54 pm)HIGHLY DISAPPOINTING!! Forget it. I’ll stick with my Honda.
Sep 10th, 2008 (4:30 pm)Did anyone think that the pictures were released on purpose to see how the public would react. Maybe the car they have is another prototype just to throw everyone off the trail. I don’t mind the look but would like to see something unique. As many of you have said, ‘to pay 40 grand for a car, it should look like a 40 thousand dollar gas car.
I”m sticking with my ford truck until GM gets the design figured and lowers the price to an affordable level.
Sep 10th, 2008 (4:43 pm)Well well well. GM…….I’ll stick with my Jeep. This car (CONCEPT) was tops on my dream car list. In fact I was one of the first to put my name on the wait list. NIX IT PLEASE. This does not even REMOTELY resemble the car we all signed up for. We are all smart consumers now and can IN FACT calculate investment vs. gain. The investment of 30+G is now OUT THE DOOR. Its ugly guys. Plain and simple a cookie cutter ugly car. Now my dream car is right back to the NSX. Thanks GM for making me realize that american companies only have a handfull of cars right. Just because popular Jap cars look the way they do DOESNT MEAN YOU HAVE TO COPY THEIR LOOKS (EG prius)
I realize that the car had to be tailored (aerodynamics) to live up to the claims given battery and bla bla bla. BUT SERIOUSLY. What a waste. This was a chance to put GM ON TOP OF THE WORLD GUYS. You f*#@ed it up. Plain and simple. Somthing as simple as exterior appearance means everything to us. Dont you get that yet. Im seriously sick.
Sep 10th, 2008 (4:49 pm)Let’s not get too excited until it is actually available to buy! Remeber GM wouldn’t let us buy the EV-1. What is the hold up? Every manufacturer out there is losing money by not puting out EVs or Plug-In hybrids. The biggest decision now when buying a car is how is the gas mileage? I hope these pics mean it might really be coming! I also hope GM pays attention to this blog!
Sep 10th, 2008 (6:19 pm)[...] this progressive. I just wish they’d step up the timeline some. Every time there is some new press (this time photos leaked) on this I’m more anxious than [...]
Sep 10th, 2008 (7:19 pm)Yick. Hey GM! No guts no glory.
I was wondering if they would chicken out and they sure have. Wouldn’t want to stand out in a crowd now, would you? If I want a Japanese car, I’ll go buy one; they all look the same to me…boring.
What is WRONG with American auto makers????
So very disappointing. I’ll hang on to my Camaro. Too bad. GM might actually have gotten me to give it up with the original look. And I was almost excited about that.
Sep 10th, 2008 (7:43 pm)Hmnnnnn, doesn’t look as good as the concept. I know production model has to make real life compromises… but not too sure if I am diggin as much now
Sep 10th, 2008 (8:09 pm)GM swings…. and misses!
I would have gone back to GM for the concept, this boring junk is a cross between a weak impala and a cavelier.
Cheap to make, and it looks it.
You had a last chance to hit a homer and you blew it!
Bye!
Won’t waste my time looking at american again, you deserve to go extinct!
Sep 10th, 2008 (8:14 pm)Ahh, not doing it for me. Sorry. Doesn’t mean I won’t buy it, but the car just changed from a BMW replacement for me to a Saturn Aura replacement for Household 6.
Sep 10th, 2008 (9:56 pm)Google: “who killed the electric car”
Sep 10th, 2008 (10:12 pm)My friend’s wife doesn’t agree with me. She wants one. She’ll go out and buy it… of course. Smart move. That would eliminate the only thing left she pays for besides her makeup… her gas bill. She’s such a cutie… the only one I’ve ever seen driving around with a “Mommy On Board” sign.
Sep 10th, 2008 (10:14 pm)Hmm, leaked high res photos with the exec’s. I thought leaked photos were supposed to be on the factory floor with a cell phone camera. This site smells more and more like a GM marketing wing trying to be hip.
That thing looks like a crappy American economy car. So much for their aggressive sexy design. This thing looks like a Cobalt. It may have great engineering, but it looks 2nd rate as usual for chevy cars, save for their new camero.
Sep 10th, 2008 (10:40 pm)I liked the pre-production model BEST! Yeah, So much for their aggressive sexy design….
Sep 11th, 2008 (12:13 am)UGLY….UGLY…UGLY…and to think I was even considering giving up my Cadillac XLR for what this was supposed to be..,
WHAT THE H*LL happened?.. Did all the designers of the Volt get kidnapped by aliens and have their originally brilliant minds replaced with macaroni? THIS is just plain AWFUL!
So many of us WERE looking forward to this exciting new car.
Now it can come and go as quickly as the EV1..
Yes, I AM a style snob when I pay above a certain amount for a car. I don’t think it’s too much to expect an edgy design versus something that looks very pedestrian.
I’m not interested any more.
Sep 11th, 2008 (12:36 am)Funny how the first comments praise the new style.
What happened to the quarter panels that hug the 20″ tires and the front beak and what about sleek and stylish sharp contours? Come on GM make me want it.
I guess you can’t help the enviroment and look good doing it.
Sep 11th, 2008 (12:59 am)OH I get it. If any saw “Who killed the Electric Car” well then you will understand.
THEY’RE KILLING THIS CAR BEFORE IT EVEN GETS OUT!
They’re breaking the hearts of consumers who want to save the planet.
Sep 11th, 2008 (1:31 am)GM what are you doing…..LOOK AT THESE RESPONSES.
700 of the 850 responses have been scathing.
Virtually all of them can’t stand your junk box replacement of the Volt (whatever that production version is, you can’t call it a Volt), and many even want to be removed from the waiting list!!!!
WHAT THE BEEP ARE YOU DOING???
My Goodness you are an embarrassment to the automotive industry, and you deserve what you get.
Sep 11th, 2008 (1:56 am)Well, leave it to GM to take a great looking car and concept and turn it in to my father’s Oldsmobile!!
Sep 11th, 2008 (4:14 am)Very disappointed by it’s looks… It has to represent what it is – an advancement. But looks just persuade to think that it’s not.
It almost compares to http://www.theaircar.com in my view…
Sep 11th, 2008 (7:03 am)After the latest releases from Chrysler, GM decides to put these out. It looks like a taxi. Very disappointing.
Thank you GM for wasting my time, I will be taking my business elsewhere.
Sep 11th, 2008 (7:55 am)I guess I might as well remove my name from the “Volt wait list.” If I want an ugly car, I can get one for a lot less than the Volt will cost! The concept car was so exciting I could hardy wait for the fall of 2010, but now rather than wish my life away I can see Volt look-a-likes today at any auto dealership in America. Thanks anyhow GM!
Sep 11th, 2008 (8:18 am)I saw a picture of the new Insight. It is not an exact copy of the Volt, but difinetly a close cousin. The Volt looks more classy overall. The Insight has a more “pimped” front end design but looses it on a “dog squat” tail end slide ramp. The Insight will probably cost $10,000 less than the Volt.
I still vote for the Volt and battery power. OPEC just dropped oil production. They announced (09/11/08), “Due to a 2% decrease in demand (U.S.A. conservation) we are dropping production by 2%”.
I feel this has now become a war of wills between the American people and our own oil dependancy. Are we willing to continue to buy gasoline burners for a short term “feel good” reward? I say NO! Go Volt Go!
Sep 11th, 2008 (9:15 am)I loved the concept car and would have purchased one. I didn’t sign up for a Prius copy. Well off to my Scottrade account and sell my GM stock . Please remove me from your e-mail update list.
Sep 11th, 2008 (9:28 am)Ho-Hum at best. If the price matches ho-hum this thing might be considered, might. The bet on this design must be average people want an average car, there are soooooo many average cars on the road after all.
I agree whole heartedly with John M, if I pay a premium price then the vehicle must have panache, which the prototype exuded. Since the car is average, unless the price matches average, count me out. I will consider a premium price tag for the Volt prototype, not for this thing.
It’s a shame the Volt name is attached to this car, Volt belongs to the prototype. Name this one something else and deliver the Volt prototype. With the technology being delivered in this car no reason the prototype couldn’t follow on it’s heels. Give us a line of Volt-technology vehicles, we need to get the oil-monkey off our back.
Sep 11th, 2008 (11:42 am)I have visited this site for months now and this is my first post. I have to admit I was really excited about this car and its concept version but the production version is a real let down. To me its just like any other small GM car on the road. Nothing stands out to make this car say “Look at Me! I’m the Future!” Too bad GM. I think you are going to have a hard time selling these at the price you need in order to justify its existence. I hope you didn’t stake your entire future on it. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for getting off of foriegn oil but I’ll do it in a better looking vehicle than the Volt. Maybe you need to hire Fisker. He can design a sexy car!
Sep 11th, 2008 (12:19 pm)They destroyed the excitement of the car. Count me out. If you can not tell what it is from 100 yards, it is not worth producing.
Sep 11th, 2008 (12:23 pm)What happened to the cool car. Gee Wizz
Sep 11th, 2008 (12:37 pm)I worked on 2 hybrid car projects as an engineering student in college, one for GM and one just to prove that OEMs always drop the ball. Well, they proved my point once again with the latest release of the Chevy “Dolt”
I had to…
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chevy_Volt
Sep 11th, 2008 (3:15 pm)The pictures changed my mind! Take me off of the waiting list. How did the looks of the concept car evolve to this? Why is it necessary to make the Volt look like a cheaped-down Malibu? I can’t imagine that the aerodynamics of the released design are much better than the concept car. … and I was looking forward to driving a really cool looking electric car! Oh well … maybe the looks will be improved before the release date!
Sep 11th, 2008 (4:56 pm)Weak – the concept Volt rocked and it screamed “BUY ME!” Remember how close the Pontiac Solstice was to its original concept? GM had a great chance to do something edgy and different – now it looks like they’ve gone Vanilla. You can do better GM!
Sep 11th, 2008 (6:06 pm)ditto on ‘why the styling change from the concept car?’ though not an engineer, you’d think reproducing the concept car as advertised would not be a tough, time consuming project. If these photos are genuine, then, I’m disappointed along with many others.
Sep 11th, 2008 (7:09 pm)Design thoughts on the Volt….
The Volt ‘concept version’ has shoulder-high clear plastic side guards that don’t seem to make sense in use or design. The ‘leaked’ version addresses this well. And although the wheel size of the ‘concept version’ is cool looking at 20″-21″, this adds to maintenance cost and raises the road friction drag factor. I feel the biggest change from ‘concept’ to ‘leaked’ versions is the upper brow line of the windshield. If the ‘leaked’ car had the same low brow line as the ‘concept’ it would receive a much better response in this forum. The other main visual change is that the hidden door handles of the ‘concept’ are now standard (Cobalt type) handles. And although only a small detail, it does pull away from the futuristic look of the ‘concept’. It’s my guess that lowering the windshield brow line is too much of a design change at this point in development.
Here is what I suggest. Raise the rear suspension by an inch to help restore the brow line look of the ‘concept’. Go back to the high tech door handles. Compromise on tire size with 19′s.
And a final personal tweak… Most $30,000 cars have an indentation designed into the front end to support a license plate. Add this so we don’t need to have a rusting bolt-on bracket sticking out of the front of this otherwise streamlined design.
I checked my place in line and it has held steady at 10576 through all of the “take me off the list requests”. I feel the actual ‘buyers line’ will form during the second year of production at the local dealer level. With high profile people (actors ~ political leaders ~ foreign dignitaries ~ musicians) taking the first 10,000 vehicles.
More suggestions…
Set a ‘no haggle’ price on the Volt so we can get this thing moving. And a ‘no haggle’ finance rate. Also, work it out that the buyer gets the U.S. government rebate price at the time of sale. Kind of what the tax people do with instant return for getting your taxes done with an agency (HR Block ..ect).
$33,000 ~ less $6000 rebate ~ less down payment or trade-in ~ with 4% finance rate. Throw in an extended warranty for cash buyers.
It’s time to man up GM.
Go Volt Go!
Sep 11th, 2008 (8:27 pm)I liked the concept car. Kool and looked like Cadillac XR. This one boring and looks like Prius. Come on you guys. Age 61 but still a car nut!
Sep 11th, 2008 (9:36 pm)You gotta be kidding me! What a mess. The 09 Camaro looks the same as the pre production version. This piece of sht looks weak. No true chevy enthusiast would even consider purchasing the production volt AKA COBALT2 over the real one. Unless this is just a ploy to get an Idea of potential market positioning for release of an entire line of electric cars including the real Volt, chevy killed the electric car again. BLA BLA BLA who the F designed this crap? Give me the real volt. Anyone want my 12412 spot on the wait list. I’m pissed this is the worst thing a major corporation has done to America since Enron. I feel like an idiot. I actually started to believe in chevy again. How many more American jobs will be lost due to your impotence. Wait, I got a solution, give every American A free CoVolt save the environment and use the donations as a write off to cover all your losses again. I still wouldn’t drive it, I will however drive my 67 Chevy. They knew how to design a long lasting unstoppable vehicle in those days. guess quality is dead these days.
Sep 11th, 2008 (9:57 pm)OMG! Liked the concept car. Looked like a Cadillac. This one looks like a Prius. Not that I would not buy one but the price better be alot lower with this look.
Sep 11th, 2008 (10:09 pm)Wow, I don’t know what most of you are drinking. This Volt is just plain and average. I was looking forward to getting a Volt for the styling, but I will be money ahead to just buy a Camaro with a V6. They could have had it all in one car, but they lost focus on what looks good. If GM wants to save a little face they should release a Cadillac EV that looks like the Volt concept but will only go 30 miles on a charge but looks really good.
Sep 11th, 2008 (10:36 pm)I agree, a Volt XLR is a sure winner. With 30 MPC battery and 45 MPG (effective) on long trips. A 40 mile ride would cost about $2. $1 for the initial battery charge and $1 for a quart of gasoline.
Just bump the electric motor from 160 HP (Volt) to 185 HP (XLR). I would expect 0 – 60 times in the 6.5 second range. This is comparable acceleration to the 1968 Plymouth GTX and will top most current V6 in performance (6.5 – 7 seconds).
Good call MJB #862
Sep 11th, 2008 (11:08 pm)well…the headlights are cool, lol i liked the earlier edgy design much better. now it looks like a redone Lumina or something. Ill have to go see it now in person to make a decision…i was sold before.
Sep 12th, 2008 (2:05 am)I am glad I am not the only one that is crying Bullsh*t. That concept looked badass (like a cross between a Caddy, Camaro and a Charger) so I put myself on the waiting list. The fact that it was electric was just icing on the cake.But Now You can count me out, GM. You blew it again. You should be ashamed of this average looking pile of excrement. How did this thing evolve from such an awesome concept.
Sep 12th, 2008 (7:19 am)OMG…….you would think GM would learn from their mistakes from the past and listen to the public instead of building what THEY THINK the American public will buy.
Dealerships use to have paper covering the windows/dealership until the release date for the new model. Now its different with the concept idea, which was GREAT…… in this case with the Volt. Everyone was talking about how GM finally got its act together and hit a home run with this car…..putting the Japs in their #2 place behind GM. The excitement was in the air once again about the new models coming out !!!! GM had its chance to become Leaders in the auto world once again, with its technology and ” out of the norm, exciting, proud to drive it, can pick it out of a crowd …etc. ” 21st Century STYLING. Now there ” swinging and a BIG MISS ” and opting for a boring, lame, misguided, run of the mill, copy the competition, and designers kissing some a** to keep the upper management happy with the big change from the orginal concept for what reason ???? ………….and allllllllll that excitment is going down the frickin’ drain…..grrrrrrrrrrrrr
What are you people thinking ?????? Get your head out of the sand and listen to the public ( the great response you had with the orginal concept Volt…..DUH , thats why you have concepts ) that pay for your 7 figure SALARIES in the glass house……because its breaking all around ya with the years on easy street without any competition. Wake Up GM ’cause you are real close to be sitting on the bench / sent back to the Minors, while watching the others play the game and make their stock worth more.
Don’t blow your only chance to become Leaders, not followers, GM !!! Go Back To The Orginal ( Volt Concept ) cool / distinctive USA STYLING from those design engineers that you seemed to have transfered back to your Cadillac division.
Sep 12th, 2008 (9:13 am)Great looking car….but why have we not started using natural gas…I know we have the tech to do so….seems like it would be an easy build…
I’m not sure i like the electric concept…except in golf carts
JGS
Sep 12th, 2008 (10:47 am)Boring…boring…boring…it looks like an ugly Prius, not the “new concept car” I was waiting for. I guess I will either have to keep driving my old Neon with 250,000 miles another decade or just buy the 2010 Prius when it becomes available if I want something new. GM will have to do better than this. I am very disappointed in GM. Cancell my order.
Sep 12th, 2008 (11:02 am)Spoke with my GM Plant manager and he said that the concept shape could not perform the ratings promised and that if they can develope so it does then they may offer both version styles
Sep 12th, 2008 (11:42 am)hi Don (# 872),
I am still looking to buy an American electric car and have not seen anything better than the Volt thus far. And I have already told several friends that the Volt is ‘the way to go’.
And although the Volt cost $10,000 more than a reasonable substitute (and I could name 10), it is what is needed for cleaner air and for lower energy prices for all Americans. And Americans really need to start buying American products.
Don, if you were a non-GM member of the public and saw the concept displayed in 2007. And if you had followed the progress of the Volt month by month. Saw the will of the American people get behind a $35,000 electric car. And saw the grass roots (Lyle) waiting list bulge from 6000 to 40,000 takers in just a few months time. And had your hopes raised when the will of GM management finally got behind moving forward on the Volt. And watched the price of regular gas top off at $4 at gallon. And saw the bumper stickers and tee shirts supporting the Volt. And saw how GM put advertising money into the Olympics and promoted the cool angular shape of the concept. Giving a full frontal shot of the concept in high def wide screen.
And then saw the public reaction to the anticipated $35,000 diamond being banana peeled into a $19,000 cubic zirconia.
Would you be surprised? Wouldn’t you react the same way? Can anyone blame them (us)?
As I have stated in a prior post I feel high profile people will snatch the first 10,000 at whatever price GM wants. I would not be at all surprised if the first 10,000 are offered in ‘lease only’ availability. This would create a safety zone for GM where in the cars could quickly be recalled if obvious change is needed. And may prevent reverse engineering of the battery configuration.
I will tell you directly. I will buy a Volt in time, but I will not be leasing any vehicle.
The information you have passed along today is encouraging. I hope this isn’t more sweet n’ low when so many are looking forward to honest to goodness sugar. Thanks Don for offering some hope.
This is my last post for a while. Have spent too much energy on this already.
Sep 12th, 2008 (12:29 pm)… that’s disappointing. I REALLY liked the look of the concept and had hoped they might keep that aggressive look for the production model. ah well, it’s not an ugly car by any means. on the contrary, i do like it, just wish they would’ve held more true to the look of the concept.
Sep 12th, 2008 (12:54 pm)I want one!! ; )
Sep 12th, 2008 (4:10 pm)Are you kidding me! Well guess i will buy the Aptera cause they have ruined the Volt. Why can’t they build the car we all fell in love with!
Sep 12th, 2008 (6:06 pm)I put my name on a waiting list for a stylish, modern looking vehicle! What the heck is THIS!? Not even close! I’ll shop for sumthing else that fits my modern ideals, and STILL delivers fuel economy! Like a Mustang!
Sep 12th, 2008 (6:07 pm)I never would have signed on if I had known it would be a four-door!
Sep 12th, 2008 (11:14 pm)One of the prime reasons GM is in trouble is that, for years, it hasn’t produced the cars Americans want. That has been left to the likes of Honda, Toyota, BMW and Saab.
GM had a chance to turn the auto industry upside down with this vehicle and attract a whole new (and old) generation of GM fans.
Why in the world would you turn down that opportunity to produce another “me too” looking vehicle that can be found on the showroom floors of Honda, Toyota, etc. etc. etc.
You’re blowing a HUGE opportunity – don’t be surprised when buyers go elsewhere.
A Former Baby Boomer Volt Fan
(note – it’s not only the kids in the 20s and 30s that were excited. You had a lot of us boomers too – and we have the $$$ to pay for this car!)
Sep 13th, 2008 (1:14 am)I originally wrote all about how the concept reminded me of the classic Monte Carlo’s sleek, powerful design with sharp lines.
Then I read that everyone else had said pretty much the same thing, so I scrapped what I wrote and started over.
This final result is VERY boring and looks like any budget car out there.
I would want to be these clowns posing seriously in front of something like that. Take me off the list if this is what it’s going to be. I’ll continue to drive my 1993 Ford Probe, which IS the best car I ever owned (traded that joke Chevy Beretta in for it and never regretted it!).
I had planned to come back to Chevy/GM for the Volt. Too bad.
Sep 13th, 2008 (1:20 am)Who cares about the cars’ looks! IF it costs $25-30K and can go 40 miles round trip on NO GAS then MILLIONS of us Americans will buy it! It is not a car for LOOKS or for weekend trips! It is for FREE (no gas) daily commutes! And we’ll screw the middle east countries and Venezuela out of their oil profits! SWEET!
Sep 13th, 2008 (2:41 am)>> IF it costs $25-30K and can go 40 miles round trip on NO GAS
It will cost more than that, range will sometimes be shorter, and it will use some gas. All of these facts have been posted countless times already.
What is the more realistic criteria that will reach a much larger group of consumers? And to be business-sustaining product-type, annual production volume will have to be how high?
Sep 13th, 2008 (4:45 am)sweet jesus, there are so many posts on this article. coming near a thousand now. : )
Sep 13th, 2008 (6:29 am)This is a huge disappointment compared to the concept, impressed me immediately as a Prius knock-off. The irony is that by the time this model is in Chevy showrooms, the new generation Prius is going to make this look completely outdated from day one. For me personally, the question now morphs from ‘am I willing to make a significant financial sacrifice for a product I love’ to ‘am I willing to make a significant financial sacrifice for a product I don’t love’.
I think I already know the answer to that question, and what a crying shame.
Sep 13th, 2008 (7:26 am)While the Volt concept car was great and we got on the list for a pair of them, these pictures are a huge disappointment. The current look is now bland, boring, and insipid. It is so 1999 concept Prius that became 2004. Even Toyota dropped the original Echo Prius when it was too bland to maintain sales. The GM creativity is now looking gone from the Volt concept into what now looks like an cheap tooling change of a Cobalt with Prius lines. To develop sales excitement, a Cadillac XLR look should be offered. As it is now looking for me, rather than a pair of his and hers Volts, now I am starting to lean instead towards one Tesla. Such potential to strike 2 sales from GM would be sad when sales and excitement are so needed for the corporation. Sadly, it is rumored that Toyota is developing a look towards the direction of the Volt concept, while GM is looking to the becoming stale look of the current Prius. GM, let’s lead with a production of the concept version, instead of these Cobalt – Prius look rubbage photos.
Sep 13th, 2008 (8:45 am)Did anyone actually say that the “leaked” photos are a true image of the final show room car?
Have a look at the photos. There is strange shadowing on them.
The top photo shows long shadows coming off of Tony P. shoes. Yet the far side of the Volt is missing a shadow.
In the photo 3rd down the rear tire of the Volt has somehow become wider. And the hood shadowing would presume a light is shining from the right thigh area of Tony P. except that the forward looking shadows on the hood creases would not be darkened, they would be lightened.
In the photo 4th down with Frank W. , the top of the Volt has become completely washed out. It has disappeared.
Geeze, what a mind bender.
Last I heard the actual GM Volt reveal to the public would happen sometime this month (September). And with the competitors model being a 95% copy of this “leaked” Volt…is GM being wise like a fox?
Sep 13th, 2008 (10:22 am)In the third and fourth pictures… is that a glued on rear view mirror?
In the fifth picture, rear of the Volt, if this is a hatchback how could it open? I don’t see a seam or a handle.
In the photo below this with Bob B. ,there is that wide tire again.
In the bottom picture with Bob L. ,the reflection of his hands don’t look right. And the ‘hourglass’ shadow below the front left headlight looks oddly grainy, low res.
My guess is that these are all Malibu pictures with a good try at photo shop.
“Just lean on the Mali Mr. Lutz, we’ll do the rest”.
Sep 13th, 2008 (10:38 am)>> Even Toyota dropped the original Echo Prius when it was too bland to maintain sales.
Since Prius was available several years before Echo, it’s amazing that such an easy-to-prove false misconception continues to live on. (Also, don’t forget that sales were double what Volt will be, a decade later… unlike back then when people didn’t know what a hybrid was and gas was dirt cheap). As for “bland”, that’s totally a red-herring. The huge benefit by switching from sedan to hatchback should be obvious.
No matter. The focus of Volt enthusiasts is in complete disarray now. Hopefully, constructive discussions about the technology itself will emerge as a result of look not being such a high priority anymore. Success depends on people understanding how the vehicle operates, not how the grille appears.
Sep 13th, 2008 (11:05 am)hi john1701a #888,
I can only partially agree with you. Being the owner of a Prius you have the mind set of 48 miles per gallon. The mind set of the Volt owner is miles without a gallon.
Owners of Prius could care less about acceleration. Because the dash read out goes down as the pedal is depressed. The Volt owner cares about acceleration, or we would simply buy a Yaris, Smart, or Prius. The Prius owner accepts that the car must be lite and plain. The Volt owner will be switching from Accord, Camry, or maybe even BMW for similar style combined with similar performance.
I understand that you are happy with several years of 48 miles per gallon. This just not do it for me, I want OFF of gasoline with the option to use a little on longer hauls. Thanks for your input, I love this forum. I’m off to the gym now, see ya.
2007 Prius interior http://garfwod.250free.com/ToyotaPrius_2007_interior.jpg
Sep 13th, 2008 (12:37 pm)Well I am going off the list. Some of you ladies have been drinking the GM koolaid. I understand that compromises have to be made in order to reduce drag but this looks like another design by focus group. It’s fugly. It’s tame. It’s lame. I know this will be deleted but GM took something cool and corporatized it into a mass marketable cheesebox. I will pass.
Sep 13th, 2008 (12:52 pm)Disappointment is not the word.
Every since I first saw the concept Chev Volt I thought that maybe an American auto company could step forward and be future thinking and produce the first electric car to help us leave gas once and for all but also look futuristic enough to capture not just more senior people like me that want off of gas but also the younger crowds like my Mustang son to also move to a hot looking electric car.
But GM you blew it if this is want type of design all us crazy people who have been on this website for the past year were expecting to see. Yes we all acknowledge that there is some change expected from concept car look, but let’s face it that is what caught everyone’s attention in the first place. To fall back to the old look of every other 25-30K car available currently looks like was a big mistake.
You could have even taken the current Corvette design and made it all electric and still have beaten the design you have come up with.
I had intentions for the past year to hold off buying my next car until the Volt comes out. As some of the others have stated, now in 2010 I will have to see what other available electric cars will be out there to choose from before I choose to buy the Volt.
Sincerely,
Hoping to be green
Sep 13th, 2008 (12:57 pm)You know… not that I’m trying to imply anything or even CARE that much… but, methinks GM-VOLT knew about this design for some time now. I say that becuase a couple months (or more) back, I donated a little bit in exchange for a ‘my next car will be electric’ magnetic bumper thingie… very cool, and they sent me 4! Only wanted one, but hey… what i’m getting at is… those pictures above of the new volt… are on the bumber magnet… its slightly faded, pixellated, and in the background… but in its recognizable quasi-glory. Good on GMVOLT, methinks, to respect gm’s timeframe on this kind of media… it just struck me, as i walked by the fridge the other day that… hey, these are 2-3 months old and that’s the car in the new pics! =)
Sep 13th, 2008 (3:46 pm)Yuk. Here’s the opportunity to do something a little daring (that’s what the audience for this car WANTS after all) and this design is beyond boring and dull. It’s a step backwards. When the Prius came out in 2000 it was acceptable that the design was blah because for economic reasons it was built on the shell of the low-budget Echo. The demand has been established now so there’s no excuse for such mediocrity. It will be harder to shell out the $$$ for something so completely neutered. I was totally on board but if this is it I’ll be waiting to see what Toyota and others come up with first.
Sep 13th, 2008 (4:07 pm)DC, I can always just ride my bicycle if I want to go emissions-free. I live a mile from my workplace. I bought a 21-speed from Wall Fart. It’s make? Ironically: GMC Denali. So I guess GM gets their woodies regardless.
Sep 13th, 2008 (4:22 pm)Re #861 (Dave K):
Your place in line has remained steady because GM hasn’t taken any of us off the waiting list. We can’t seem to be able to do it ourselves; if someone knows, please inform us all.
My hunch is GM doesn’t give a shit, so they won’t be reading this forum. Thus, they don’t know I want off the waiting list along with 736 out of 1,000 others.
And my ass will remain, against my will, on the list.
Sep 13th, 2008 (5:03 pm)>> …because for economic reasons it was built on the shell of the low-budget Echo.
Attempting to rewrite history, eh? Echo came afterward, years later. By reusing the Prius platform with a non-hybrid configuration, Toyota took a big step toward profit. Hmm. Makes me wonder what people will claim as to why GM changed Volt so much from the original concept.
Sep 13th, 2008 (5:21 pm)It looks like they morphed a picture of a prius with one of the concept car went 80% prius and settled there for the finale design. So if they’re going to make a car that looks like a bunch of other cars that sell for under $25000 I hope that they sell this one for under $25000 too otherwise take me off the list. I’ll keep riding my bike 5 miles to work until I can buy a plug in SUV that can tow my 26′ sailboat to the lakes like the ones AFS Trinity is driving around the country showing off.
Sep 13th, 2008 (11:24 pm)Get it out by Friday !
Sep 14th, 2008 (4:44 am)I’ve been struggling with a difficult choice, both Generous Motors, do I pick the fun & sporty or go green & responsible. Humm, Camaro or Volt the choice is getting easier.
Sep 14th, 2008 (7:23 am)This is a great idea. I copied this text from the “Volt battery” forum.
Texas #86 writes…
Yet another possible application for solar cells! At the hottest part of the day when the sun is beating down on the asphalt and bringing the temperatures of the battery pack to dangerous temps, the solar cells can operate the cooling system to keep the hottest temperatures from being seen by the batteries. The solar cells can also perform battery activities like temperatures monitoring, owner notification in-case the batteries are experiencing dangerous temperatures, etc.
Good going Tex, I love that idea.
(post 900!) Go Volt Go!
Sep 14th, 2008 (8:08 am)http://www.madness-us-cars.com/actualite-vehicules-americains/camaro-transformers-1.jpg
Above is a link to photo of the New Camaro body style… Similar to what GM presented the Volt to look like… The Volt was touted to be a stylish green car… Obviously, they couldn’t get the 40 mile on one charge, or the MPG to be right so they FELT they had to modify the style… Can anyone tell me why they didn’t keep it close to the design? I for one HATE the look and GM should be sued for this shameful attempt at a Bait-n-Switch…
To GM: People are not this stupid… This car IMO is nowhere near the car you made people believe was coming to a showroom rear them… Moreover, the fact that you think that this car is going to sell the same way is almost comical. You had everyones attention and could have been the leader in your field, instead you played it safe and just made a copy of what is out there at the moment.
As for the CEO, Leadership is having vision and taking a reasonable risk to map out the road for your vision. You had the vision, we bought in, and your roadmap just drove us off a cliff!! You should be fired just for being stupid enough for doing a 60 minutes interview in front of a car you are not building… Over 30K people would have waited to buy this car you were showing us 2010, or at the very least one that came close to it. If I wanted a Prius, another company already makes it, and more than likely makes it better then your at this point…
Lead! Do not follow, because that is what GM pays you to do, and their employees need you to do!
Sep 14th, 2008 (4:18 pm)You can call this car whatever you want, just don’t call it a Volt.
It’s better looking than a Prius and that is the market they are
targeting I guess. Calling it a Volt is an insult to those of us who fell in love with that car. Like others have said, I hope another division
of GM takes the concept and brings it to life, even if it’s a gas version. Enough said on this subject.
Sep 14th, 2008 (6:46 pm)Gotta admit, whether childish/immature/whatever, I was hoping for the look of the concept. Looked great, touted decent performance figures AND was “green” to boot… Guess I hoped for too much. Love the relatively petroleum-free part – and I would be glad to pay a premium for that… but I don’t want to drive a vehicle that looks like I’ve aged 20+ years every time I drive it… Bottom line: GM missed the mark IMHO… I’ll wait for other models to step forward…
Sep 14th, 2008 (7:44 pm)Looks like a Prius with a bow tie.
Sep 14th, 2008 (8:27 pm)Guess I am a lot less “amped about the Volt if this is it”.
Let’s call this thing what it is “ugly” and “typical GM”. Let’s hope they rename this cop-out body style the “little Watt” not a “Volt” (or how about calling it “the little spark that could have saved GM but they chose to extinguish that spark),
This could have put GM back onto the cutting edge, instead we’re left with dull blade.
Did you hear about the movie sequel coming out, “Who killed the electric car AGAIN”? Wonder if their gonna pull their little “Lease Only” stunt like they did with the EV1. I cringed when I saw the crushed EV1′s but I don’t think I’d loose sleep if I saw this thing crushed. The EV1 was out how many years ago, and it looked more current then this thing.
What a let down. Why pump up the pre-press with a sexy looking concept then pull this stunt, it definitely aint sexy. I could see maybe toning it down from the concept a bit, but this is a complete different tune.
Maybe they are making this car for my grandma, these looks might have been popular with her generation, except she passed on years ago. So as a ‘living’ member of the ‘current’ auto buying public, I guess I’d have to say to GM, this is actually well done and it does look state of the art (for the 80′s maybe) … please note the sincere sarcasm (and sincere honesty).
Guess I’ll be keeping my Mazda RX8, it only gets about 15 miles to the gallon, but at least I am proud to be seen driving it (if I got caught driving what’s in these pictures, I’d be hoping nobody saw me in it).
All these negative comments are hard for me to say because up to seeing these pictures I HAD BEEN a SINCERE VOLT FAN, that is just not the case anymore. After seeing what they warped the Volt down to, it might not be who killed the Electric Car, but if this is GM’s idea of the future, we might be seeing a movie some day called “Who killed the American Automotive Industry” or maybe “GM’s Suicide”. Ouch that sounded harsh, but then again, so is what they did to looks of the Volt.
DISAPOINTED! and just plain shame on GM for coping out on the looks, maybe someone else can take the guts of the Volt and create a different electric car that I’d want to be seen in.
Sep 14th, 2008 (8:51 pm)Nice Job GM. Great start on the beginning of an exciting new era in the automotive world. This vehicle will be a champ. I have been following some of the drive train technology and it is quite impressive.
I realize (obviously there are some who don’t) that the pictures are released for a reason. It’s amusing to read some of the negative comments from people who obviously don’t have the insight to understand the reason for these pictures at this time.
The design is actually not bad. Good to see it isn’t following the transparent design of the competitors hybrids.
Can’t wait to see them on the road in late 2010. (should be interesting to see what it really looks like then). Can’t wait to chop the oil producers and start cleaning up the environment.
Sep 14th, 2008 (9:24 pm)Tim,
Enough of these exterior “whiners” who do not understand the relationship between aerodynamics and design. Gimme some interiors! Show me what I have been missing – ya got some good stuff, show it off. -Yours truely.
Sep 14th, 2008 (9:29 pm)Dear friends,
Since I saw the volt for the first time I started to save money and resist to the tentation to buy a straight car like my other schoolmates. The volt was giving me hope to a new era of nice looking vehicles and people who says: ” My car is looking nice like a mustang or a camaro but I use no gasoline”. But when I saw the new design that I was expecting, I said : ” Another same-looking car”. Some people would buy it because they believe in the green-world, but others will stop believing in this project.
Now, I just don’t know what I’ll do. I’ll continue keeping my money and hope that when i’ll see it live, my dream car will still be there.
Thank you for posting.
A volt fan in waiting to a nice eco-looking car
Mathieu
Sep 15th, 2008 (1:41 pm)wow, looks good i cant wait to stop using foriegn oil !!!! where do i sign ?……..
Sep 15th, 2008 (4:19 pm)I would like to know what GM plans on using for Batteries since they sold their interest in the NiMH battery to Standard Oil Company. And from the word going around they dont have a battery yet. I would love for GM to respond to this, but doubt they will since Bob Lutz has refused to answer this question in an email.
Sep 15th, 2008 (6:33 pm)I don’t like this model. I liked the first model. That looked really great. It looked like a Chevy Camaro with an upgrade of the new millennium style. This one looks like a Toyota Prius crossed with a Chevy Cobalt. This diminishes my hopes of buying the Volt. Looking like that, I am sure other companies will come out with something more stylish….. and have the same performance, for just about the same cost. Two thumbs down GM!!
Sep 15th, 2008 (10:05 pm)I have to say I’m not to excited about this new look, and it definately resembles a fancy cobalt to me. I was looking forward to purchasing this car as soon as it came out, and as I would have my degree by then willing to pay the price.. but with the new look I have to say it needs to be priced A LOT lower. I’m an Environmental Science major and I’m all about the volt concept but I feel that GM cannot get people (me included) to spend that kind of money on something that looks so much like every other GM vehicle out there when there are other options out there.
Sep 16th, 2008 (10:23 am)For all who are disappointed with the “look”,
I’ve seen worse and if you want to point at me and laugh while I drive by, I’ll point back and laugh at you pumping gas for $7 a gallon to line the pockets of the greedy oil companies during the next hurricane “scare.”
If I could get a shopping cart to do 70 mph on the interstate, I’d ride in it too. I’m tired of throwing my money away on gasoline.
Sep 16th, 2008 (8:28 pm)Well, GM, you’ve done it again, have’nt you?
You come out and show us a 10 and then inevitably come up with a 2 in reality. You guys just don’t get it, do you?
If you wanted this project to fail again, as you did with the EV1, then why put forth the effort at all? And while we’re at it, why the same old lies about not having an efficient battery available to go complete electric yet?
You have at your threshold, the second opportunity to be innovative and beat the rest to the finish line, and yet, you appear to want to throw that opportunity to the wind again.
Let me make a wager though…I bet that you will still maintain your focus on your new Camaro and the competition with the Dodge Challenger.
I bet you won’t hack the good looks of that little project, will you?
As I said, you just don’t get it.
You had me with the concept, but lost me with the weak reality of it all. You have shown me for the last time that your only concern is to please the oil boys and not the public that actually supports you.
Well, that my friends, is bad business, and we all know what happens when business goes bad.
We all know that this will not be the only electric available in the near future, and now we know that GM is not taking this thing serious at all.
It’s a shame, but I guess customer value is a dead entity in this country. You have only yourself to face in the mirror…enjoy the view.
At 60 years of age and having been a loyal GM customer my entire life, I have to say that this disappointment has finally done the job. I will be in the market for something foreign now which is something I had always sworn never to do.
Where I realize that I’m only one individual, and that you could care less about a loss that minute, you might try to realize that the people in this country are not quite as limited as they have been, and I have a feeling that I won’t be standing alone.
Thanks for the partial effort anyway, as it was a brief ray of light and an actual sign of hope in times that are becoming more hopeless by the day.
I’m sure Honda will pick up the ball you have chosen to drop, and once they do, well, we’ve seen over and over that they know how to do it right.
Thanks for the past anyway, but I’ll now look in another direction for the future.
Sep 17th, 2008 (8:23 am)A little different from the concept version. Looks good though. What is the MSRP? under $30K I hope.
Sep 17th, 2008 (11:59 pm)So let’s get REALLY REAL. Will this thing be offered with a propane-powered system, or only gas/electric?
You have bent my ear, Boone Pickens has bent my ear. I can fuel this thing WHOLLY at my home if it has the propane option.
Or, Honda can get their Hydrogen model available, and figure out how the US market can get Hydrogen. Sounds good for GM. Get me a propane model. I have a 500g tank out back.
I plug this Volt in for .90 (TX) a charge, burn a smidge of propane (carpooler), I will pony up 35K.
Do this, offer this, work on this. Honda once offered the Civic in a GX model (I think), which ran on CNG.
Propane Volt. CNG Volt. Think about this NOW, GM. Propane/CNG/Electric is the BRIDGE to the future. It’s only 2008. The Volt is a few years out. Most people do not have large propane tanks in their back yards. BUT SOME DO. Offer this as an option on the Volt when it’s available. An OPTION. I would most likely order this option from the factory.
Sep 18th, 2008 (6:34 pm)Well to me the production model looks a lot different than the prototype. I kind of liked the looks of the prototype better but I think any company that is willing to take a chance like they did with the Volt should be rewarded for their efforts. It also makes a difference to me that it is an American based company. I’m kind of getting tired of everything going off shore so if I have a choice of where to spend my 40k I would rather spend it here. I hope most of it will be made in America but you never know these days. I have the money and I am ready for the car. I’ll wait if they don’t drag their feet too long.
Sep 19th, 2008 (1:12 am)First, as most of you will agree, GM screwed up by destroying the EV1 program that was very successful per the comments of each and every leasee (see the DVD “Who Killed the Electric Car”) where GM could have been light years ahead of Toyota in 2008. I personally love my Prius whereas my daily mpg is 50-55 consistantly. I paid $26,865.00 out the door for my package 5 for my 2007. No way would I pay $40K+ for the Volt. I’m looking forward to the 3rd generation Prius and will give my ’07 to my brother.
Sep 19th, 2008 (10:50 am)What the….
What happened to the car, that is not the one I signed up for.
I am very unhappy and will not be buying that thing.
Sep 24th, 2008 (9:13 am)I bought one of the models they sold last year. My students thought it was cool. Too bad for GM. They take a pie in the sky, and turn it into a pancake. I guess I can dream of what could have been. I have my scale model. From exciting, bold to boring.
Too bad.
Sep 24th, 2008 (3:27 pm)The concept is much better looking than is show here. Now it looks just like any other GM cars and I am not happy with that at all.
Why the design change? It was extremely desirable, gets one feeling the need to buy, now is nothing more than, hmmm, let me think….
Sep 25th, 2008 (9:18 pm)Its horrid. If this is a marketing test GM, then take heed. If this is truly the production version of the Volt then you’ll not get my money. I was seriously thinking about waiting to buy a new car until the Volt came out but if this is it then so sorry, I am not interested.
I really hope this is not the final version !!
Oct 2nd, 2008 (7:31 am)it’s NOT a FULL electric car, but is just another car wich is running on gasoline. THE REAL electric car was EV1 !!! We want EV1 back ! more than that: WHY THE COMPANY MAKE THE TRUE ELECTRIC CARS UGLY ??? why not make the same cars on gasoline and electric and let the people choice ?
Oct 6th, 2008 (3:42 pm)…not bad looking car, but the previous “concept” sharp shape was amazing and Volt looked so sporty and for me (European) represented original American muscle car. Now it looks like ordinary car, mainly in the year 2010. I have to say that´s really pitty to pack so original technologies into such a standard coat.
Oct 11th, 2008 (1:05 am)What happened to that cool looking ‘non-electric’, NOT egg shaped concept car?!! Why have they taken a clearly great concept and watered the design down so much! Are GM’s designers blind! Do they not see the similarities between what they now have and the Prius, and a Civic?
Truly a disappointment from what could have been the great new car to sweep the nation; and the world. Clearly they do not see the potential for not only bringing us a great green product but a stylish, and dare I say it ‘manly’ car.
Oct 11th, 2008 (10:56 am)Really didn’t care what it looked like just wanted a car that didn’t use gas and would be affordable to buy and available before I needed to buy another car. Well GM failed on all accounts. Just read where it has been moved out to 2011 and cost $40,000. I just bought a KIA as with 226,000 miles on the 86 OLD’s couldn’t wait any longer. At my wifes and my age and income, a 100,000 mile, 10 year warrenty went a long way in our decision making. Doesn’t quite ride like the “98″ but a very nice perforning and driving car, it’s an Optima and in mixed driving I’m up to 32mpg. Thanks to Lyle for all the hard work in keeping this all going against all odds. Will miss all the commments. My name can come off the list. Sorry GM could not see the light years ago and now face bankruptcy.
Oct 17th, 2008 (3:54 pm)Here’s a video about the Volt: http://www.greenrightnow.com/wfaa/2008/09/30/volt_video/
Oct 19th, 2008 (8:56 pm)Overall, it’s a well-designed and engineererd car. In fact, it’s an innovation in both fields. But, I remember it looking a little more classic, yet edgy. All in all, it’s going to be great to drive around in a car that is clearly awesome! ( Maybe the “egg” look is for aerodynamics sake, since the fuel-efficiency has been put on such a high pedastel. )
Oct 22nd, 2008 (8:15 pm)I’ve given this a lot of time and thought now. Still ugly by comparison, but tells onlookers “I am electric” from miles away.
Even nerds have an image to uphold. They wear pocket protectors and glasses so other nerds can find them. Not sure I wanted to be outed like this, but I’m an electric car nerd, and uh, I’m pretty proud of it. We are never going to be free until nerd persecution ends.
Nov 7th, 2008 (4:23 pm)Not that good looking…
Nov 8th, 2008 (10:53 am)I graduated HS in 1972, to give you some perspective. Until I started driving Mercedes and Jags, much later in life, I never owned anything except GM cars, mainly Pontiac’s. Wouldn’t touch a Ford or a Chrysler to save my life. I WANT a car from GM!!! What they have done to the Volt is why I can’t buy cars from GM anymore. The concept Volt looked HOT, SPICY and Expensive (well-made). The production model looks CHEAP, watered-down and weak. The committees and bureaucrats have done it again!!! Don’t they get it!? I would sacrifice a few miles per amp, or whatever you call it, for a design that looks better than a FIRST GENERATION Prius!!! I would pay MORE MONEY! This egg-smooth, me-too design is EXACTLY why I won’t be plunking any money down. I cannot get over how the makers of ’57 Chevy’s and ’69 Chevelle SS 396′s and numerous other gorgeous classics has come to this.
Dec 5th, 2008 (6:16 pm)How about cramming one of those batteries and motors into that little Pontiac two seater (forget the ICE). Now that would be a sweet electric car.
Jan 12th, 2009 (7:16 am)was waiting for a volt…. now I will move on. the “bait and switch” has left a bad taste in my mouth.
40K for a car that looks like a civic? No thanks GM…. have fun with that chapter 7
Jan 12th, 2009 (12:59 pm)GM Management hasn’t learned a DAMN thing at all from its past and on going mistakes. Back when the Chevy Volt concept first became public knowledge, I remember thinking WOW, finally an electric car that dosen’t look like the traditional image of a dull and boring golf car. It stood out, looked sleek and muscular. It reminded me of the proposed 2010 Chevy Camaro. I also remember thinking that GM was on the way to becoming Number 1 again. But true to form GM took a great idea and let it slip through its fingers. The new Chevy volt looks like a Damn Whimpy Jap car. What idiot at GM decided to castrate the original muscular Chevy volt? I’d like like to castrate that SOB. Heres a suggestion; Hire me to to become president of GM. I’ll show you how to run a company
Jan 15th, 2009 (4:48 pm)The great thing about America, is that even before the Volt becomes available, there will likely be thousands of companies out there just ready to sell you any kind of body panel redesign possible. The thing about a concept car is that you are not supposed to become, well, excuse me for saying it this way, but you are not supposed to become fixated with it as if there was not any way you could have a follow-on production design customized yourself.
The understated color silver likely is the way you are supposed to be able to best see the “lines”. From there, you can imagine how you would want it customized if that is your preference.
It’s surprising that it seems several people are “quitting/kicking & screaming”, as if the electric propulsion green-evolution means nothing whatsoever at all in the purchase of a Volt. I find that amazingly shallow.
As of this date 01-15-09, a recent GM story mentioned that the majority of GM vehicles may have electric propulsion incorporated.
Perhaps the esteemed Corvette may get the sudden electrified acceleration “jolt” as well. That way, anyone who wants something closer to the original concept Volt may get an opportunity later on to become satisfied with a different style.
Maybe my position on the wait-list at 45,594 will now be just that many fewer positions closer to being able to get a Volt.
Dan Petit Austin TX
Jan 15th, 2009 (5:04 pm)Dan I am #684 on the wait-list but I do not think I’ll be more lucky than you.
Time will tell,
Regards,
JC NPNS
+1
Mar 2nd, 2009 (8:06 pm)The Opel version looks like a bad ass set of wheels!
The Chevy version looks…. well it looks like a Chevy!
Why can’t we get the models that have the cool Euro design?
NO GM – because we live in the States doesn’t mean we want white toast. Give us the hot looking one, not the bland US-afied version!
Oct 20th, 2009 (11:00 pm)Not too bad looking…. It would look better black.
Oct 22nd, 2009 (12:15 am)Love the way it looks! 100x better looking that a Prius!!
Mar 22nd, 2010 (2:14 am)wow. I really amaze on that car hope I can handle that. HUH