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BREAKING: Production Chevy Volt Revealed in FULL!
September 16th, 2008 | Posted in: Interior, Production
Before an audience of millions GM CEO Rick Wagoner introduced the full production version of the Chevy Volt, driven out before the crowd by GM vice chair Bob Lutz.
All interior and exterior photos can be accessed here along with press release.
Posted by: Lyle
September 16th, 2008 at 9:10 am
Hooraaaay!!!!! Lyle, have you got a video?
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:10 am
It’s a good day to be a Volt fan. Thank you Lyle for all that you have done.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:12 am
I like it better than the concept. NPNS
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:12 am
Wow!! I want one now!!
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:14 am
I really like this car much better than I did last week.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:15 am
awesome!
Am I post #!? Woohoo!
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:16 am
I like it
http://media.gm.com/servlet/GatewayServlet?target=http://image.emerald.gm.com/gmnews/viewpressreldetail.do?domain=2&docid=48589
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:16 am
cool
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:16 am
Now they just have to price them right to determine if they will succeed or not.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:17 am
I agree, a week ago i was ready to abandon all hope with this project. Now I feel some life coming back into it for me!
I am very excited for more information to come along with pricing, interior and features.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:18 am
It actually does look great – Thanks Lyle and GM for keeping us up to speed!
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:18 am
LOOKS BETTER THAN THE LEAKED PHOTOS BUT YOU CAN TEL ITS THE SAME CAR. HOW ABOUT THE INTERIOR?
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:18 am
Looks WAY Better than the other photos.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:19 am
Love that black roof, and the LED lights. Cooler than people had given it credit for. The naysayers will continue their rants; but I’m pleased. Thank you, Lyle.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:24 am
Great Stuff Lyle!
I hope the interior looks as good as the exterior.
They gonna let you drive it?
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:25 am
Ditto! Thanks, Lyle.
Tag
NPNS LJGTVWOTR
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:28 am
#12 Cliff
This link has exterior and interior photos.
http://media.gm.com/servlet/GatewayServlet?target=http://image.emerald.gm.com/gmnews/viewpressreldetail.do?domain=2&docid=48589
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:29 am
The Volt does look better , Let the revolution begin!!!!
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:30 am
Looks more aggressive than the light blue color. When are we going to get pics of a darker color, like the dark blue ont he transformers set?
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:30 am
It is a good looking, aerodynamic, 4 door sedan. (It is not a Camaro junior, and that is a good thing.) I like it better than the concept.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:30 am
Has anyone watched the videos on the GMNext Site. They have one that shows the interior and another showing the Volt driving on the road. Just click on Chevrolet Volt under Channels.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:33 am
I’ll be proud to drive it!
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:36 am
I wonder what some hot wheels mated with high performance low profile, low rolling resistance tires would do to the looks? Perhaps a two-tone paint job and some pin stripes. Add the latest thin-film solar technology to all of that beautiful black roof area and I think it would quite nicely for me!
I’m really looking forward to seeing what the custom guys do to the electric car. Some radical folks will just use the drivetrain and roll their own frames and bodies. We should see some fantastic things in about 4 – 5 years.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:37 am
It does NOT look like a Prius. Hooray!!!!!!!
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:43 am
I can’t believe what a difference colors and angles make.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:44 am
Could not get either feed, but the media.gm link was sufficient
(thanks Aspherical). Really a lot better looking than the leaked photos
revealed.
I want one so bad I can taste it. Not sure what it tastes like, but it is
great…
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:54 am
My GF just bought an ‘09 Malibu (delivery later this week!) and my ‘05 Sierra has a lot of life left in her (only 32k miles right now). So we have some breathing room as far as our automotive needs go — we’re set for a couple of years.
That said, I am VERY optimistic that THE \VOLT will be my next set of wheels! (Too bad that WAITING is the hardest part!!)
THANK YOU LYLE for keeping us all so well informed!
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:55 am
Looks good.
Just asked Jon Lauckner in the GMNext chat about any plans for an all electric version of the Volt (no generator). He said no plans for that at this time, but maybe perhaps when battery technology improves.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:59 am
OKAY….!!!!, Okay….!!!!, okay….!!!!, ok….!!!!. I’m super excited about what I saw earlier this morning. The car really looks great…!!!!
Hey….!!!!! Mr. Lutz…!!!!
Do I make my check out to you or to someone else within GM to get my name stamped into one the the 10K units…???
I’m ready man…!!! Pass me my keys Thank you.
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September 16th, 2008 at 9:59 am
I really like that interior (other than iPOD White)!!!!!!!!!! Way better looking vehicle than anything remotely in its class! Other than price, I can see no reason why this isn’t the start of a transportation revolution! Go GM!
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:04 am
I like it, I want to drive it and I want it RED
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:04 am
Excellent! Sone new revelations, at least to me. Drive motor now 111 KW rather than 120. Trunk size 10 cu ft. 40 mile AER based on EPA city drive cycle.
Missing from the specifications: Acceleration. That does not bode well for a zero to sixty time of less than 9 seconds.
Also missing was the head room specification. That does not bode well for head room of at least 38 inches front and rear.
And of course still waiting for an independent test drive to confirm AER, acceleration, and charging sustaining mode gas mileage.
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:04 am
Fantastic!
The whole webcast and then the reveal combined with the media photos are all spectacular!
Definitely, without a doubt, my next car! Time to start saving.
GM, My faith is restored! Happy Birthday!
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:05 am
I thought I’d mention a few things, mostly about the interior, based upon the AutoBlogGreen gallery just posted:
http://www.autobloggreen.com/photos/2011-chevy-volt-1/1039487/
1. The white, flat-plastic ‘iPod’-like appearance of the center stack appears to be as we previously saw, which some folks did not care for. JMO: Its final form, in full-interior context, looks somewhat more palatable.
2. The dual displays are both still there, including the pocket below the center display that appears likely to be a dirt-magnet.
3. The single diagram included in the series of photos shows only one charge port, just ahead of the driver’s-side mirror.
4. The console area looks remarkably like the same size and bulk as a typical sports-sedan console. The battery’s volume appears well hidden!
5. Overall, the seating, dash, and controls look modern, yet clean and usable. I like it!!
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:07 am
http://www.ecogeek.org/content/view/2130/69/
Pictures loaded fast from here.
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:08 am
http://www.gmnext.com/Videos.aspx
CLICK FOR VOLT VIDEOS
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:09 am
The interior is so futuristic, amazing! The photos show each label clearly. The shifter is interesting, it appears “parked” in the console. The interior certainly doesn’t have that bland look of so many cars today. Welcome to the future!
Kyle, I hope you enjoy a test drive!
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:11 am
Oops, I forgot to mention the missing gas tank size.
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:12 am
The production version wins in my book.
Great job GM and happy birthday.
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:24 am
Very very good loking car. This car will sell all they can build.
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:27 am
On GMNext.com, I *highly* encourage everyone to watch the new videos that were made available today. Among other things, at the 2:16 mark of the ‘Eyes on Design’ video, there is a brief image of the plug-in cord used to recharge the vehicle! As had been expected, it is located in front of the side mirror. The one shown is on the driver’s side.
Also, on the ‘Hitting the Streets’ video, there are several vehicles shown .. the close-up shot of the plug-in port being unplugged (and closed!) at the 2:26 – 2:28 mark shows one that looks Volt-ish to me, though I can’t be sure .. this is like water in the desert after all the endless discussions!
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:32 am
More video’s are here Click on the channel for “Chevrolet Volt”.
http://gmtv.feedroom.com/?fr_story=0bd790c4ddf4676f6ed4b68b373b21ca0e58cdb8
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:39 am
OH YEAH!
I was one of the many people that complained when they seen the leaked pictures last week.
This is focusing more on the car and yes it looks nice enough.I love it.
CHECK OUT THAT INTERIOR !!!
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:42 am
wow, ok that dosn’t look half bad at all, I’d like to see one in person now but they were right when they said the leaked pics didn’t do the car justice.
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:43 am
I was very concerned when the leaked photos came out, but these photos look much better. I still prefer the concept, but I can live with the production look.
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:46 am
Really!? A max speed of 100mph?
So if I “red line” my Volt, I’m only going to get to 100mph?!
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:49 am
This car is hot…..The coolest “mass market” sedan I would say, love the design details. I think it beats the concept. The oher shots before were terrible compared to this!
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:50 am
The exact video from the live feed:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnBR1fx1Zj8
I couldn’t get sound to work properly, though there wasn’t anything important in that clip, just music.
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:54 am
Aspherical, thanks for the link…. something new I had been asking about but finally know… the tires are low rolling resistance. I do wonder how expensive they will be to replace when it’s time, but then again if you can afford a $40k+ car then you can afford to replace the tires when it’s time
Van… yea, I was thinking the same thing about the 40 mile range specifically says it’s based on the “city cycle” and not “combined cycle”. Though lately I’ve been learning more back roads this summer instead of the highway after I got my 1st motorcycle and feel more comfortable riding it off-highway. It actually doesn’t add much time to my trips… my point being that if I can get significantly better EV only range and not add much time to the trip, I’d probably do it.
As for the exterior look of the Volt…. I don’t hate it, but I don’t love it either… to me it doesn’t look much different than most of what I call the “bubble” (shape) cars out there. I’ve said it before but I’m really disappointed GM decided to put on a fake front grill so it still looks like a “Chevy”. I don’t like the look of the grill on other GM vehicles so that’s part of it, but I also think they could have shown with the lack of a grill that this was a different type of car.
Also like Van, I’m concerned about head room, especially in the back seat…. with that now standard “bubble” shape it makes it hard to get decent rear seat headroom… it’s why I’m glad I got my last model year for the Volvo S70 with a more square shape on the back half so the rear seats have tons of head room. The next year they replaced the S70 with the S60 that has the same bubble shape as everyone else
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September 16th, 2008 at 10:59 am
Stunning. I even love the interior, which I was initially not at all a fan of (I didn’t think the white centre stack went with the rest of the car). But I think it’s all beautiful. I can’t wait till the day that I can cruise silently in that beautiful car.
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:05 am
#46 dennis, the Volt isn’t a race car. You don’t need to drive 100mph, ever; it’s more than enough to let you pass any traffic you need to pass on the highway. If it were 90, that would be pushing it in terms of passing ability from time to time, but if you feel that you need to drive more than 100, the problem is your driving, not your car.
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:11 am
Watching the videos on the gm site and I had the following observations
1) The trunk space is larger that I expected. Though once you put stuff in there it’ll quickly reduce rear visibility.
2) The styling is a little more aggresive that I’d imagined. I think it looks cool and distinctive. I like it.
3) Lutz said the mirrors don’t add anything to the vehicle drag coeffficient. While this may be true, they certainly add to the frontal area which is multiplied by the cd to get actual drag.
4) Still didn’t hear where the charging ports were at for sure, though it still looks like they’re in front of the mirrors.
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:13 am
Jay,
I have never pushed my car to 100mph, but I was able to get up to 80mph without smashing the gas pedal through the floor board.
With a max of 100mph, you’re going to have to push the volt pretty hard to get it up to 80mph. i.e Your volt will be working at 80% of it’s maximum output. Think about what that’s going to do to your range of 40 miles.
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:19 am
Awesome, I like it better than the prototype.
I hope that I can afford it!
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:20 am
I like the design, but..
How is one supposed to install an after-market car stereo?. I purchased one last year, and I plan on using it in the Volt (It has an iPod connection on it…I’m not willing to give that up)
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:39 am
I’ll echo everyone else here….
It’s not a matter of whether I like it, it’s whether I can afford one!
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:41 am
Wow, what an beautiful looking car,i can’t wait to get my hands on one!
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:44 am
The car looks great, it’s no Tesla but it perfect for a daily driver. I’ll admit it’s unfortunate that the side view seems to share some tired styling from Pontiac/Holden, but it looks better than a Malibu or a prius.
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:47 am
As a followup to #41 – the plug-in is more fully demonstrated by Boniface in the ‘Volt Design Dignitaries’ video, from about 3:23 to 3:42 =)
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:52 am
EV range, city (miles):
40 (based on EPA city cycle)
So, what about the highway range. I think we are going to be disappointed on this spec.
Since I do not drive cars in special lighting and inside a theater, the looks may be ok here, but the car really looks no better than the leaked photos (IMO).
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September 16th, 2008 at 11:59 am
Now it’s even harder to wait for 2010
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:01 pm
Wow, this looks much better then the other photos. I can’t wait for my white one!
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
Wow, I want one.
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:04 pm
Excellent interior dash layout! I hope there is a coupe in the works for 2012.
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:05 pm
Great Job, GM!
Let’s get the pricing confirmed and you’ll have my deposit!
GO GM, GO VOLT for 2010!
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
That’s better than the last set, but it’s really not distinctive enough. At least half of Prius sales, I’m convinced, are because (ugly as it is) it’s unmistakable, and advertises whatever message it is that you think it sends. The Volt should do that too, but this looks like any other car on the road.
But it’s good that it’s not aggressively ugly, like I was afraid of.
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:07 pm
RE: Interior Shots
I now work in electronics and, if my suspicions are correct based on seeing the R&D for the next generation head units, the dash pieces GM is putting in this thing is ahead of what the aftermarket is even researching for the next couple years.
The second monitor in the center column with the recess I am guessing based on seeing plans for 2009-2010 on the aftermarket will do the following:
1) That monitor is removable
2) It will have a USB port on the back
3) It has a solid state hard drive on the removable section
4) It will have Navigation, MP3 and file storage, and all the driving and diagnostic stats stored on that removable piece so you can download to your home computer or upload music files direct to your car from your home computer or use it as a handheld GPS/Navigation.
5) All the above is why the CD loading slot is mounted way below the monitor, the CD is a seperate piece.
It gives you every option conceivable and the solid state hard drive is ridiculously low power draw.
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:09 pm
The interior center console is a good beginning, but it really needs some more work. Fortunately, the pictures suggest it is still a ‘work in progress’. There are labels where buttons will eventually be located, etc. The center display appears to be swivel; it will likely end up being fixed. The color needs to change, etc.
What happened to the 3rd display to the left of the driver? Wasn’t that to be an information display?
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
If I designed the interior, I wouldn’t have went with the conventional steering wheel. It is bulky and limits the view of the displays. It also limits hand placement. There are many other controllers that can be used for steering; gamepad, joystick, etc. I personally like the Wii controller.
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:22 pm
I will have to say GM did a profound job on this car. They created a E-REV for $30-$40k that looks MUCH better than the EV-1 and the Prius. It doesn’t look like a Tesla or Fisker Karma like some of you would like, but if the Volt becomes a success those type of cars won’t be too far behind.
Reasons I’m excited about this car:
1. No gas for a typical work day.
2. 273 ft-lb of torque. I can’t wait to drive this car.
3. Won’t turn a whole lot of heads, but does have very distinguishable features that people will know it is a Chevy Volt.
4. Nice looking interior. Has the potential to be very easy to use.
5. It looks like a liftback. I currently own a liftback (Scion tC) and love that design.
Things I don’t like about this car.
1. The faux grill. Looking at it is similar listening to someone clickity-clacking their pen. Just annoys me.
2. White interface in the interior. As a former car detailer I notice every smudge and scratch on my car. This interior will drive me nuts…
Just my two cents…
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:23 pm
It’s time to replace the header graphic on gm-volt.com!!!
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Now that looks great…can’t wait to buy it….
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:31 pm
I don’t like the center console. It looks very cheap.
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
So, what does the cargo area look like, with the rear hatch open??
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:35 pm
I’m disappointed. I was expecting a more stylish, futuristic design. Also,if it is going to cost more than $30,000 it will fail.
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
It looks great! Now, when can we get our hands on it and how much?
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
Hopefully these photos will stop all of those who confidently went on about how neat it was that “it’s a hatchback” in the last thread… geez
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
@ 53, dennis About the 100 mph top speed. The electric motors have much flatter torque curves than an IC engine. So, it seems more likely that you can comfortably go 80-90mph than with an equivalent IC-engine powered car with a top speed of 100mph.
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September 16th, 2008 at 12:44 pm
@78 Sifta, Very interesting point. I’ll need to see reactions from an independent reviewer. GM needs some help in the PR deparment.
Sidenote: what’s the deal with the rear console? They market this car for the family, but instead of added extra space for people, they make sure the kids in the back have cup holders for their lattes….hopefully that rear console is a removeable feature.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:07 pm
I think I would buy the car just because of the interior truely b-e-autiful
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
One thing confuses me. I had always assumed (don’t say it!) that the Volt would have unlimited range as long as the generator kept recharging the battery. Is this not true? Does it only have a range of 300 miles total, and if so, how long does it then need to recharge to go another 300 miles. Granted 300 miles will be sufficient for 95% of my driving days, but what about visiting the relatives in California (from Wisconsin), etc. Who knows the answer?
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
Very nice design. The images released with above link are Computer CG renderers from GM’s design studio. GM needs to be more distinct about which are CG and which are real photos.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Looking to buy the Volt when it comes out and trade-in my Toyota Prius. It appears that GM has done everything well for the Volt:
Dark lower sides and underbody which should eliminate rocks and road dirt from showing up
1) Four door sedan (hatchback?)
2) Generally aerodynamic
3) Shaded Instrument panel, 2 cup holders, Keyless ignition, Bluetooth (standard),
4) Optional navigation system with onboard hard drive for maps and music storage
5) Well designed seats (stiching should not cut into vinyl with years of use
6) Glass rear hatchback allowing viewing from the rear (will a backup camera be available also?)
7) Rear spoiler which should provide an added attribute blocking headlights from cars in the rear getting into your eyes while driving or in bumper to bumper traffic
Overall very well conceived and executed!
Hoping: that the sound insulation is robust, the ride is smooth/tight, Options a-plenty (Navigation, HiFi/Satellite Radio Sound System, On Star, Solar Roof, Extended Warranty, possibly a CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) version, off market accessories, etc.)
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:18 pm
GM Prius? I guess the volt is not unique anymore. Typical GM…
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:19 pm
Wait a minute.
This looks different than the pics last week.
Are those different versions, or is this the sport version?
Or are my eyes just playing tricks on me.
WHATS GOING ON ?? LOL, I’m so confused.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
I’m glad GM is finally back in the electric car game. Though they would have been way ahead of the curve had they kept developing the EV series. Now, that car was ahead of the curve and GM killed it. If this car is meant to signal the new direction of GM for the next 100 years, they’re in trouble. It’s strange, but it seems to me that something like the EV-1 or EV-2 would have been a more appropriate car to carry the GM mantel for the next 100 years. As other people have said on this site, it looks pretty much like any other car American car. No real distinguishing feature that jumps out at you though the technology is very promising. The problem with most American car designs especially GMs is that they are too conservative. How many times have American car companies come out with great concepts only to significantly water-down the production model? To the point that it’s hard to tell that it’s the same car many times. BTW, I’ve always had American made cars until I bought a Prius almost 5 YEARS AGO (because my Pontiac GTP supercharger sports coupe went up in flames) and it’s the best car I’ve ever owned.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
Anyone spot the electric charge port in the photos?
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:24 pm
What a nice looking car, GM! Thanks, Lyle, for all your hard work.
Can anyone make out the controls on the steering wheel itself? I am curious about the cruise control features and regen breaking associated with cruise control. I see the levers below and on the right and left of the side of the steering wheel. It looks like right lever is wiper controls, left lever is probably lights, low & high, turn signal, and maybe cruise control. What are the buttons on the steering wheel itself?
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:31 pm
#87 Bob Sullivan
Charging port is on the driver side by the mirror. See picture 10 in the following link.
http://www.autobloggreen.com/photos/2011-chevy-volt-1/1039489/
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:34 pm
I still like the concept better, but these pics are much more flattering than the leaked photos. I would love to own this car (based on form and especially function)!!! You have done well GM… now just get it to me/us for 30 K (with tax credit) and you have a game changer. Keep it up!
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
#81 Grant Jonsson
If you run out of gas, the generator will not charge the battery. The “range” is based on a full charge and a full tank, You can have an unlimited range, as long as you stop to fill up the gas tank…or get an airborne tanker to refuel you on the fly.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:38 pm
Awesome pics –
Whats with the Tires Again.
1. The previously leaked photos had BridgeStone.
2. The full production photos reveal that they are GoodYear.
However if you look closely – The tire says P225/45R18. Yes 18″ tires on production photos. Go close up on the picture of the rear quarter panel. Blow up the picuture – increase brightness and it shows it is 18″ and says ” Not for Highway use – (rotate picture to read)”
The specs released by GM show that they are 17″. The photo reveals that the Goodyear tires say right on them ” Not for Highway Use”.
GM what is the deal with the tires……….. Not for Highway use – optional 18″ what is the deal….
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
I love those 17″ wheels, does anyone know the clearance underneath ?
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
I do think that looks a LOT better than in the leaked photos. I like it!
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:43 pm
As far as I am concerned, this is a triumph, and not just GM’s triumph. This event represents a victory for all of us that have wanted an electric car ever since the ill-fated EV-1 perished in a lamentably premature death.
Questions remain, for sure. How much will it cost? Will it perform as advertised? Nevertheless, I am envisioning this car in my driveway… But even if its price puts it out of my reach, I see it as the first of many, more affordable, EREV’s to come.
BTW, despite all the naysayers, this sure is one good looking car!
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
Now, that’s much better. All it needs is a set of aftermarket rims and tires and a red paint job. Maybe a spoiler and air dam.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:44 pm
I love everything about it…. Except for the white interior sections, including the interior door handle area. I can handle it looking like an updated Malibu, if it performs as advertized. I’ll smile everytime I pass the pump.
One question… If my commute averages less than 40 miles, and I never use the generator… How long will the gas stay good? Do I need to treat it with Stabil? or just never fill it? I am rubbing my hands with glee to worry my head over that question… again as I pass the pump on my commute.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
GM: The Volt rocks—Thank you!!!
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
The Chevy Volt DOES look very SHARP. I would be proud to own this vehicle. Problem is, 2012 is the earliest I will see one and I will have to make a purchase before then. Sorry, GM. Not your fault, just the way things are turning out. Maybe I can get one by trading in the car I am going to buy, but I will probably be so happy with it that I will not want to trade. Sorry, again, GM.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
Absolutely stunning looking in this video:
http://www.evworld.com/article.cfm?storyid=1528
It is just aggressive / sporty enough looking, while still being conventional looking, to appeal to a large segment of the market. I look forward to hearing the final numbers on acceleration.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:49 pm
# 88 – Looks like the cruise settings are on the left side, with a thumb toggle for ‘RES’ (Resume) and ‘SET’ .. the corresponding controls on the right side are (perhaps) radio controls, with a thumb toggle for up and down, and a volume up/down switch beside it .. and also telephony controls.
The controls I can’t figure out are on the far left side .. ‘GAP’ and ‘CNL’?
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
The exterior looks pretty good. The interior is very poor.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
It’s kinda nice looking. Definately not the concept, the concept was hot looking compared to this. but I’m still going to buy one because it will keep our soldiers from dieing for oil, and it will support an “american” company. I only hope that i don’t have to kick myself in the ass 4 to 8 years down the road for buying american. Everyone knows that GM parts and technology fail around that time span (sometimes sooner) but the jap and korean engineered stuff goes for at least ten years usually problem free. I sure hope I’m making the right choice, It’s a lot of money.
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September 16th, 2008 at 1:52 pm
#91 ThombDbhomb
“You can have an unlimited range, as long as you stop to fill up the gas tank…or get an airborne tanker to refuel you on the fly.”
Good idea about the airborne tanker. Honestly, I prefer the idea of installing a lightning rod to charge the battery…
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:01 pm
Question; Does anyone know if the gen will recharge the battery on a long trip or will it just give you power enough to let you proceed on your trip with the gen running after the first 40 miles.? In other words if you do not have a place to plug it in over night are you burning gas until you return home?
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
GM – Looks Great! I still want one!!! I wish they would have used the paddle charging port. The one they showed on the video looks a little weak.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:04 pm
The concept looked hideous to me, and I could tell it wasn’t going to be aerodynamic.
This design is much, much better! I can’t wait to see it in action!
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:05 pm
September 16th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
#104
Don’t worry someone will break the software and you will be able to make it do whatever you want. By the way gas is down again watch how low it goes when all electric cars start going mainstream. They can keep the gas, I’ll be using electric fuelled from other sources.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:10 pm
So much for an aftermarket DVD system.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Innovation, check out this qoute via AP:
Lutz said in an interview that the car won’t be ready sooner because of the complexity in building an entirely new powertrain.
“This is all-new technology, a lot of very complex software on the interaction between power electronics, piston engine and so forth,” he said.
The car, he said, will know a person’s normal route home, and if the driver veers off the route, it will calculate whether it needs to start the gasoline engine to recharge the batteries to extend the range, and for how long the engine needs to run.
Wow, GPS working day to day to help the car be as effecient as possible.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
…masterfully done…
…now let me buy one.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:14 pm
Design: I thought I was looking at the next generation Acura TL or TSX…. GM needs to hire new designers!
Performance: Where? For an electric vehicle, 0-60 is disappointing, top speed is disappointing but I guess that’s because they planned on conserving battery power?
Other than that, I respect the work GM is doing now to make up for all the off-lease EV-1’s that they took and sadly demolished for no good reason.
Thank you GM, it’s about time.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
GM – Great Job on the Volt! Love the production version!
I can’t wait to buy one. I do worry about the charging port. I would have loved to see a charging paddle. The charging port I saw on the GM video showed looked like it could break easily.
Will be happy just to get one!
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
#87 Bob
You can get a look at it in one of the videos on the GMNext web site.
R/Jim
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:23 pm
Two questions…
1) Is the roof translucent like the concept? Can’t tell from the pics.
2) Lyle’s FAQ says the range is 400 miles/tank, but now the range is 300 miles/tank. So did the tank get smaller (6 gallons at 50MPG) or did the miles per gallon decrease (8 gallons at 38 MGP)?
Thanks.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:28 pm
If anyone reading this is within driving distance of downtown Detroit, the Free-Press says:
GM will display the production version of the Volt at the Renaissance Center until 10 a.m. tomorrow morning.
Also from GM via the Freep: (some others have referenced some of this already
General
Vehicle type: 5-door, front-wheel-drive sedan
Category: Extended-Range Electric Vehicle (E-REV)
E-REV competitors: none
Chassis: independent McPherson struts front, compound crank twist axle rear, four-wheel disc brakes, full regenerative brakes to maximize energy capture, electric power-assist steering
Seating capacity: four
Manufacturing location: Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly (subject to GM successfully negotiating satisfactory government incentives)
Performance
Top speed (mph): 100
EV range, city (miles): 40 (based on EPA city cycle)
Dimensions
Wheelbase (in / mm): 105.7 / 2685
Length (in / mm): 177 / 4404
Width (in / mm): 70.8 / 1798
Height (in / mm): 56.3 / 1430
Cargo volume (cu ft / L): 10.6 / 301
Battery system
Type: lithium-ion
Energy (kWh): 16
Electric drive unit
Power (kW / hp): 111 / 150
Torque (lb-ft / Nm): 273 / 370
Exterior
Tire and wheel size: specially developed low rolling-resistance tires on 17-inch forged aluminum wheels
Source: General Motors Corp.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:29 pm
Didn’t see the interior until now – If they offered the white console in black, I’d be sold. I just don’t like the white. (And it doubt it’s going to stay white for long.. it’s bound to fade to yellow, or get dirty over time, whether you clean it regularly or not)
I fixed the sound on the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eSpeWgCrP3A
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:31 pm
… and in other news, this site has been virtually unreachable for hours. If I hadn’t googled my way to LeftLaneNews (pretty good photo spread taken by someone next to the turntable), I would have gone nuts.
Now it all comes down to $$$ and availability.
Thank you, Lyle Dennis, for all that you’ve done to make this day possible.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:32 pm
If people REALLY believe that GMs future lies with the success of this car, they may as well close shop now and save the billions that will be lost. From a design standpoint, looks like the front end of a malibu grafted on to a Prius like rear half. So nothing special there. The only thing that was retained from the concept is the name though I like how GM claims that the mirrors and grille are from the concept..YIPEE!!. So If pricing isn’t in the 20s (competitive with the Prius and other small hybrids) where the average buyer can afford it, then this car is DOOMED! If priced at or around $40k where I suspect it will be, the savings on this car will not be enough to make it more economical than a Prius.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:33 pm
I think these pictures look better than the leaked ones. I’m afraid it still looks like an electric car – i.e. not the best looking ride on the road. I also anticipate the price is going to hit upper $30’s at best. With fuel costs coming down, I’m not sure how many people will jump on board to keep with GM’s goal of 100,000 units in production year two.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Honestly, I am severely disappointed in this project. The concept is good and it honestly should have been a ‘done deal’ years ago. After all, GM is well known for its diesel-electric locomotives which use essentially the same technology and have been for over 70 years!
Think about it people. This thing is so grossly over-engineered that it is going to be priced right out of the market it needs to enter–the average consumer market. GM and Chevy have already claimed that they are likely to be priced in the $30,000 to $35,000 range. How many of you are willing to spend that much for something that will take over 5 years just to break even on costs? This thing needs to be priced at least 1/3 less to be viable and priced 1/2 less to really make an impact. GM can’t do it with this model.
Yes, when I first saw the concept, just as with the SSR concept, I thought, “I like that! I want one!” Guess what. I don’t own an SSR and likely never will unless I buy one on the used car market. Based on what I’m seeing so far, I’ll never own a Volt either.
This technology is 70 years old. Why did GM have to spend millions of dollars to design and build a tiny 3-cylinder engine when there are literally dozens of 2-cyl and 4-cyl engines already available that could have served the purpose with equal or better economy and power? Why did they have to go to such extremes as to design an all-new transmission system when plugging a simple, off-the-shelf, already efficient electric motor into the transmission bell housing to replace the gasoline engine would have worked just as well? The concept isn’t new, it’s ancient!
I know of at least one home-built plug-in SUV that can actually outperform it’s gasoline equivalent with a mere 20-horsepower electric motor on 4-wheel drive. If one man can do it in his own garage, why can’t GM do it on the assembly line for even less?
No, the Volt doesn’t look anything like the concept any more, and the technology is overdone for what it needs to be. General Motors and Ford have both made major mistakes with their latest high-mileage concepts. If they don’t fix these mistakes, there will no longer be an American “Big Three.”
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
#109 terryk
“So much for an aftermarket DVD system.”
I saw the same thing. I tried to ask the interior design manager about that on the chat after the webcast. Basically I wanted to know who was providing the audio system and who was providing the Nav system … in the bit of the dash we saw in the CNBC special some time ago, there was definitely a Garmin Nav unit (similar to that built into a Kenwood DNX5120, DNX7120 or DNX8120), but … my question was never approved by the moderator.
I think the vehicle in the video and the new photo’s looks much more attractive than what was leaked last week. If I can get one for under $30K to the low 30’s (after rebate, credit, what ever it will be) … I think I can be happy with this.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
Uh looks like my ‘04 Ion with a glass roof, but I liked that look anyway …
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:36 pm
Fred
“#104
Don’t worry someone will break the software and you will be able to make it do whatever you want. By the way gas is down again watch how low it goes when all electric cars start going mainstream. They can keep the gas, I’ll be using electric fuelled from other sources.”
That’s win-win for volt owners.
Cheap electricity for your shorter daily drives, and cheap gas for your longer drives
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
I was lukewarm on the original leaked pix, but these newer ones added to the GM Next videos have me fully back on board. My only concern will be the size of the rear view mirrors. Household Six hates the RVMs on my 3 series, because they are smaller than those California Truck sized mirrors she has on her Aura (and used to have on her Grand Prix).
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
#119 Jackson “Now it all comes down to $$$ and availability.”
A detail in the meantime is that the car has to actually work.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
I would rather purchase the “Think” coming here next year from Norway. They have 14 years building electric cars. The “Think” goes 120 miles on a charge. You should check out their website.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:42 pm
This car is truly stunning, inside and out.
Only GM could build this vehicle.
This is a car I can feel comfortable driving, I was dredding having to buy another ICE only automobile.
I’ll just have to start saving for a deposit now!
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
I think that it is an OK design. I don`t like how the back is a different color but other than that it looks great. I think they did a much better job on the interior this time. In their prototype model it looked very strange.
I did like the glass roof though, that would be awesome.
Just keep the price low GM!
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:50 pm
#117 canehdian
“Didn’t see the interior until now – If they offered the white console in black, I’d be sold. I just don’t like the white. …”
From Tim Greig’s (Interior Design Manager) chat today …
***********************************************
Antonio:
The interior looks very inviting, and high tech. Are the materials going to stay as high gloss and tech, or will they have to be softened?
TimGreig:
The images you have seen today are of the production interior. However, there are other color and trim options, like a metallic black control panel.
***********************************************
Emphasis is mine.
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
Concept car was a wet dream, production car not so much! Only GM can mess up a WET DREAM! I was very interested in the concept car, but not anymore. Way to go GM. NOT
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September 16th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
If the intention was to unveil a car that looked nothing like it’s concept, then they’ve done a great job. The concept looks awesome. This look like just another crappy 4 door run of the mill sedan. May as well stick a Toyota or Honda emblem in it…what’s the difference. BORING!
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
#129, psklenar
Awesome! I just want some “real” pictures in different colours, but (if I have the money), I’m definitely getting one.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:01 pm
If the intention was to unveil a car that looked nothing like it’s concept, then they’ve done a great job. The concept looks awesome. This look like just another crappy 4 door run of the mill sedan. May as well stick a Toyota or Honda emblem on it…what’s the difference. BORING!
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
It frustrates me that they dont show the total package. I hear the overall package is really cool. Accents are very colorful on the doors and the seats. The grafix they are currently messing with are said to have the feel of the I-pod ads with the black sillouttes. They are looking at the potential of Metallic too for the conservative crowd. I laugh at the fact that we always see the outside, but spend 90% of our time inside.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
It is a big day…one that frankly I used to doubt would ever happen. I hope that center console will be available in a different color, but I love the interior otherwise…reminds me of a modern airplane cockpit.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
FYI regarding “top speed” all GM cars except for high performance models (corvette, firebird, etc…) are typically restricted to 95-100 MPH top sped. This is typically done through electronic governing of the fuel injectors. The reason for this is primarily cost rather then safety. GM and nearly all american cars are sold with tires that are not rated for high speeds and it would pose a liability risk to sell a car with tires that were not rated for the cars top speed. Therefore the volts true top speed may well be in excess of 100MPH. I don’t know that for sure just thought it might add something to the discussion.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:07 pm
this is bad. come on, people. the concept car has been bragged about and put in our faces forever and now they just release another “chevy: like a turd” design. they need to stop releasing concept vehicle shots to the public because they completely lack the innovation and imagination necessary to make the beautiful concepts become a reality. this is precisely why steve jobs says he will not release apple concept products…because designers create kick ass concepts and then the engineers say “no” to everything and poop comes out the backside.
this is a complete disappointment. design takes a back seat at chevy again. when can i expect to see a OUT OF BUSINESS sign on the entire city of detroit? an appropriate FAIL on a day where it seems like the american economy is in the crapper for a long while. im losing pride in everything we do.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:08 pm
Good photos make a big difference. It doesn’t look as bad as in earlier pictures. I’m still very cautious about the size though. It looks like a very tiny car. If you are over 6 feet, you may not fit. Until we get test drives, or more specs on interior size come out, this car is still a big unknown to the larger folks out there.
Oh, and the price is still a game ender at 30-50k. It’s got to get under 30k.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
Gah! It looks like a regurgitated Cadavalier, er, Cavalier from the 80’s. Why such a washed down version from what was proposed. Geez, and the Detroit 3 wonder why people don’t buy domestic as much as the imports. Deliver on your promises and they will come. I hate that they pre-sell sizzle and steak and give you mediocre ground chuck after the bean counters and committees get done with it. Wither art thou in this process Mr. Lutz?
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:13 pm
For those harping on the white center console, I read somewhere that it’s expected to also be available in black and green (ew).
As for the lack of ability to easily change to an aftermarket stereo or DVD player, it’s not just the Volt. Many cars nowadays have custom-shaped stereos. I personally find that most aftermarket stereos are tacky and gaudy, so that’s why I’ve never considered changing the stereo in my car.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
I liked it on the leaked photos, and I like it now.
Here are my comments/suggestions:
I’m not sure about so many buttons on the console. Put the HVAC controls in the touch screen and declutter the dash. Auto climate control just doesn’t need much fiddling. I ended up liking this in my wifes Prius.
Offer a few alloy wheel choices all at the same price – pick out during ordering. The wheels combined with color choice will make for more different looking versions so you’ll less often see the identical twin, like you do on the Prius (and once every 5 minutes).
Please just toss out the usual GM GPS system (almost all OEM systems are no good), and just use the Garmin blackbox plug-in system to interface with your touch screen. Not only will we all get the best GPS interface, but we can easily update it via our computers, add in points of interest, or even make the icon a Volt shaped car.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
“Génial” as we say in French, I never hoped to get the concept on production.
I want one as soon as possible.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:17 pm
Great job GM. You created a beautiful car. Now get the price low enough to be affordable and you will have a winner. Actually, you will probably sell plenty at a $40,000 price, just not to me. But, job well done.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
I like it. I especially like the “high tech” interior and touch screens. I think that a sedan is much more practical than a sports car, I was worried about how you could see over the 6 foot long hood. My big complaint is the backseat, it looks like the center console extends from front to back. Oh well, I won’t be spending much time in the backseat.
Good job GM, I only wish I was higher on the wait list. You can send mine in black, with a dark interior please.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:19 pm
it looks like poo, they made it look like a hybrid… took a good thing and killed it. guess I will get a camero
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:21 pm
I Like days like this !!!!!!
Just came back from the Auto instructors offices at the college I work at. over the last year they been going to workshops on hybrids and where told that the Volt cannot be made, the battery tech is not ready.
After we got into Lyle web site and looked at the pictures and read some of the comments we might have picked up 1 or 2 more for the waiting list.
Lyle did you happen to get the part number to order the Volt?
If the price is in the mid $30K I’ll be in line
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
N Riley #143,
I cannot agree more with you. JC
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
I think it looks great. Now I just need to get GM to let me “test” drive one on my 40 mile round trip commute in Boise ID.. I think many average Americans like me will not be able to afford this or any other similar car for a while.. I hope GM sticks to the 2010 date and makes it happen. Go GM!
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:30 pm
interior is ok now, but by 2011 I suspect it will appear rather dated. After owning the car for 4 years, in 2015 I suspect even fewer will enjoy the 1999 iPod interior. Unless the consumer is looking for retro. The interior, though, has the exterior beat hands down.
If Lutz was inspired, in part, by the Tesla Roadster, who is going to be inspired by this?
GM can win on price and availability. They’ve lost on design (sadly Wagoner himself said that design was essentially to GM’s success).
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:36 pm
If you look at the pictures of the center stack, there is clearly a couple of buttons of interest: Economy and Sport. I’m going out and guessing that the Volt will allow for more spirited driving than we have been led to believe…!
Peep the close up photos at http://www.leftlanenews.com
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:37 pm
Does anyone know what the “econ hold” button does? Or what about the “M” on the tranny shifter (P/R/N/D/M)?
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
@115
The original concept had two 7 gallon tanks on either side of the vehicle. One tank was dropped after the original went through the wind tunnel and they started redesigning.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
I love it! I really like the look from the rear quarter. Game changer ladies and gentlemen…Game changer.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
I love this car!! I can hardly wait to purchase one, the thought of driving without using gas is fantastic. Great job GM!
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Does anyone know where the version was that GM was showing off to the public? GM went around showing off the concept car and getting everyone’s hopes up. Then when they unveil the production version, its not even the same car. What happened to the cool car that I was hoping for?
Take me off the list, if I wanted to buy a piece of crap, I can buy any other GM model. I was hoping for something new with this one.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
I like the looks of the prototype better, this now just looks like a prius.
boring. and it will probably have the build quality of a GM.
pass on this. I wish GM would just die already and get bought out by tata. the Tesla motor company did an electric car for 60m as a startup, from scratch (yes they did have help from lotus) and gm has the resources, designers, and cash that exceeds tesla but they still put out a rotten product.
and this;
“hat concept car’s angular face wasn’t aerodynamically efficient enough to make it to the final version as GM engineers and designers tried to extract every extra foot of “all electric” range from the car, GM designers have said.”
cant they make a little model or a computer model sim to tell them what kind of efficiency they get???
simple math;
engine – aerodynamics = output
freaking geniuses over there.
Its so disappointing and frustrating that they can’t get their act together.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:42 pm
When can I get a matchbox car of the Volt for my desk?
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
I don’t care what the car looks like, what I care about is how it works in the real world and how much it costs. Those who keep putting down the car because it doesn’t look good enough for them may also be those people who need their self image shored up by practicing conspicuous consumption. No car will make you look sexier, smarter, wealthier, or whatever your personal shortcoming might be. The Volt is a good first step towards full electric car after GM killed the EV1 and I hope it is successful. I plan to get one if the price is not too high for me.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
RB (#125):
… the car has to actually work …
Obviously.
If it don’t work, we’re all here for nothing.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:45 pm
For $40K, GM could have and should have done a better job of styling. Perhaps the GM designers need to figure who their target market is and do few focus group sessions just on design elements. I hoped for cutting edge design, expected some detail compromise in the production version; but got a seriously unexciting execution.
Hope the Japanese aren’t following GM’s lead.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:46 pm
huh? white interior on the inner doors? I guess they never get their hands dirty in Michigan. That interior will stay clean for about 10 seconds with my family…
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
There seems to be two avenues of thought here…on one side is love and the other hate. I myself have to agree with all those in the camp of:
What a cop-out GM did by dangling an awesome concept car and completly dashing the feeling of “I just gotta have one of those!” by making the production version something just a touch more spruced up than a Prius.
For those of you that love this production version and are all excited about, I gotta ask, what pictures are you looking because I see another mondane GM car that is almost completly transparent compared to other makes and models?
I do like the entire electric concept, but it’s going to take more than that for this one to be a keeper.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
If GM is reading these comments good work guys. I like it much better than the exec pics. Like I said all it needs is a BETTER color (what the hell is wrong with you guys and that “cloudy rainy day” grey crap? why not black but then again it is better than that toilet brown you had on the concept so your slowly getting there) a tint and paint those flimsy ass plastic fenders the same color of the car PLEASE! but even if you don’t I can do it myself. Now just GIMME it NOW! Ill test it for you, you may scratch that will not get it back but that’s ok we’ll exchange for the driving statistics data. I can honestly say the only thing I dont like about the car is the color and those two tone skirts. But like I said I can change that even if you don’t. Give me mine in all black with no logos, thanks! Good work , once again.
PS: Can someone photoshop those into different colors again. Thanks.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:48 pm
GM stock: DOWN FOR THE DAY, DOWN 30% from Friday
Hmmm, looks like the design is UNDERWHELMING the general population. Hail Mary…poor execution. Too Bad.
Again, I repeat that by GM’s own stats in one video, they COULD have had the concept body for a sacrifice of only 2.5 electric range. I don’t know if the concept’s styling alone could have helped GM’s stock…but it couldn’t squash it like this ugly one did.
sigh
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:50 pm
It is little wonder that the American Car companies, specifically Chevy have had failing numbers for so long. This saddens me that they took a beautiful car and made it look like all the other cars in their line. It’s very boring. And if it starts at or around the 40K mark, they will never compete with the Imports. It’s very frustrating.
I truly WANT to buy American, I love my country and my City (Well what’s left of Detroit, but that is for another blog.), but I as a consumer will only purchase quality. The quality/cost ratio could prove to be the nail in the coffin for GM as a whole.
Please consider some slick packaging for this, chrome or something that people can do to spice up the look of a incredibly boring vehicle. And please consider firing the UAW so you can actually build and sell this thing competitively.
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September 16th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Did anyone notice the Gear Indicator
P R N D M
park
reverse
neutral
drive
mountain ??????????????
Brian
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
I think it looks fantastic. Minor concern regarding blackened window sills but other than that looks really good.
For those that don’t think it is exciting enough go ahead and work on electrifying a Lamborgini Countach or something. I’m personally happy with the most of the design/aero tradeoffs that were made. It has decent areodynamic’s and It isn’t a melted pill like the prius / insight.
What I really want to know is (other than real price / govtmnt incentive) is what is the highway EV range? They give city but don’t state highway. The nondisclosure of this number is concerning for me since I drive almost all highway.
And as a side note if they can’t make this affordable anytime soon please give me a gas version that looks the same and gets 40-50 mpg.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
Well done design team…yeah Bob, you did quite well too….
I think the console may be better in black.. .
Somethink profound? Well…I think this car will change the automotive industry for ever…
Take care.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:04 pm
Concept deisgn looked much better, but its nice to see that they have a full prodcution model
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:06 pm
#92 B_Schmatt
What do you make of the tire markings just to the left of P225/45R18 (after the picture had been rotated 180 degrees)? It looks like a fuel guage showing E(mpty) and F(ull) with 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 graduations in between.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:06 pm
I want one!! Sooo excited!
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
Amazing what better photos can do for a car. If you notice the lighting in these almost matches exactly the lighting in the original concept photos. The darker color makes the car look more “dramatic” not so wimpy.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
#158 Donald
I agree completely with your comment. Some naysayers are here to put GM down. That is their sole purpose. They are either GM haters or have vested interest from some other source. Problem is, they will have absolutely no effect on the decisions by many here on this site. We all recognize a naysayer when we read his comments. You naysayers may as well be baying at the moon.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
What is that behind the top/right corner of the center console display?
What are those images on the driver’s door above the arm rest?
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:13 pm
Can’t wait to drive this car! I’m in.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:16 pm
Depending on if they did a “traditional” transmission or not, M may be for “manual”.
Or maybe it’s for MACH SPEED.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:16 pm
I have not bought an American made car is over 20 years but I will buy the first affordable electric car… so I hope this is not just a ploy that will be taken off the market as soon as you think the oil crisis is over. America needs to be the leader in the clean energy revolution as we have been in the past. You have a chance to once again make America the foremost care mfgr. I hope you don’t fail us!!! I am available to test drive a model for you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Here’s my crappy photoshop of it in black.
http://www.new.facebook.com/photo_search.php?oid=27046850978&view=user#/photo.php?pid=4212679&op=1&o=user&view=user&subj=27046850978&aid=-1&oid=27046850978&id=605190292
kirk Says:
”
September 16th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
“And as a side note if they can’t make this affordable anytime soon please give me a gas version that looks the same and gets 40-50 mpg.
Here it is.
http://jalopnik.com/5050144/chevy-cruze-revealed-live-before-paris
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:22 pm
We also need a picture of the center console at night. I bet it’ll look impressive.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
biodiesel jeep (#164):
GM stock down 30% since Friday, eh? And it must all be solely due to the Production Volt not meeting the styling goals of car nuts, and have nothing whatever to do with the biggest single day Market drop in 7 years, yesterday.
Oh, and they didn’t officially release these photos to the general public until this morning, so we now have evidence of time-travel as well: another GM conspiracy revealed!!!
Sorry, I know some of you were genuinely on-board before reality set in, but now that it has, perhaps there is another site calling…
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
Any chance that GM will still be in business by the end of this year? If so, they may want to switch the battery chemistry to Lead Cobalt:
http://www.electricauto.com
and
the vehicle’s body materials to carbon fiber like Rocky Mountain Institute’s design:
http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/09/04/video-rmis-hypercar-a-100-mpg-suv-featuring-amory-lovins/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiA4cpJb0uw
If carbon fiber is used, the 40mile range per charge would likely double. Also, the Lead Cobalt battery would likely do the same.
Happy Trails,
Jake
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:24 pm
Reply to: 151 JIM
“Does anyone know what the “econ hold” button does? Or what about the “M” on the tranny shifter (P/R/N/D/M)?”
Jim, I hoping the ‘econ hold’ button is a way to temporarily bypass the normal draw on the battery, and provide a way to push the electric motor to it’s max and leave the Corvette that just cut you off in the dust!
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
This picutre looks wayyyyyyyyyyy better than the picture from last week….what happend?
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:29 pm
Can’t call me a GM hater! I was a die-hard Chevy owner until 2001. Other than the Corvette, GM innovation and styling has been slowly rotting away. I expected more from GM than this. Ford and Dodge aren’t doing any better. Such disappointment in all the U.S. auto makers.
GM wants to sell a million of these things but they don’t want to invest in new production methods or new materials to make the car lightweight and durable. What short sightedness… It’s all the same song and dance. They would rather keep making the same and bleed millions in losses.
I guess Tesla Motors is going to be the only auto manufacturer left in America soon. I’ll wait til then…
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:31 pm
This is why GM is failing!
How can you take such a beautiful concept and neuter it so completely?
The concept car was beautiful. I wanted one. Bad!!!
The actual production care looks like every BORING sub-compact this decade.
How many committees and how many compromises did it take to kill this dream?
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
Wow, no gear shift lever. I wonder how you make it go?
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:36 pm
I still hate all the white shiny plastic.
The white plastic looks great on iPods and Macs, but on a car interior it’s very distracting for the driver.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:37 pm
I watched the 100 anniversary show this morning and was impressed by the global diversity of this company. Though they do poorly in the US at the moment – that’s the only market they are losing in. The Asia market reports 157% sales growth with big improvements in Korea and China. GM, is smart enough to manage a multinational portfolio that relieves pressure on local markets.
This Volt will go very far to positioning GM as the world leader in non fossil fuel transportation. Congratulations to Rick, Bob and the whole GM family. Keep up the great work – you ARE changing the world!!
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:37 pm
Does anyone else think the rear end (apart from the fantastic looking taillights) looks very much like the Aztec? I seem to remember the Aztec being universally regarded as the ugliest car produced in recent times, why would they re-create that?
And I’m still of the opinion it the only things that look good are the headlights & taillights. Take those away and you’ve got just another boring Chevy
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:41 pm
OK, GM, since you will not give us the Volt before November 2010 and not in any real numbers until 2011 or 2012, at least give us the Cruze next spring when it is released in Europe. The Cruze would make a tremendous difference to our country in the meantime. Why wait until summer of 2010? It just doesn’t make sense to me. I would buy the Cruze over the Toyota Prius or Honda Insight if it was available next spring. I will buy a new car by the end of the spring of next year. It could be a Cruze, but will probably be a Honda Insight. Sorry, GM.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:44 pm
One Word WOW !
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:49 pm
Too bad.
I was starting to have hope for this company.
I guess Apple is the only American company left who can actually pull off good design.
I’m selling GM short. I hope they die quickly.
Dear congressman, don’t you dare bail this company out!
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:51 pm
Looks muuuuuuuuuch better.
Professional photography is the ^$%&.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:52 pm
Nice looks, now deliver on the functionality.
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September 16th, 2008 at 4:52 pm
I liked the first photos far better than the “’50’s boy racer” badly dated look of the prototype, and this looks better yet – Slightly agressive without going overboard.
I would agree with those who think a blacked out grille would help…
Anyone who thinks the Volt looks anything like a Prius should get their eyes checked…
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:00 pm
Thank goodness it has a normal dash. I hate that dumb prius dash.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:03 pm
ummmm…. me likey , its a good day to be a volt does not look like concept obviously , but it looks beautiful . I think you can sign me up one for 2015 , hopeful by then i have enough money . That would be the ultimate birthday gift
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
George said…
“The original concept had two 7 gallon tanks on either side of the vehicle. One tank was dropped after the original went through the wind tunnel and they started redesigning.”
Right, but after the redesign, range was listed as 400, down from 600 originally. Now, it’s 300, so I’m trying to understand what changed it from 400. Thanks.
Love the looks from the front ,,, especially the glowing eyes. They also took my recommendation of an econ/sport mode.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:05 pm
Yes it looks nice…….just like 90% of the other cars on the road right now, so it would look just all right for a 2008 vehicle. Being released in November of 2010 would make it a 2011 vehicle. So when it finally comes out, it will look like an average 2008 car, for $40k. GM will have a very very tough sell, in other words, it’s a dog that won’t hunt. I imagine they’ll have to drop the price well under $30k just to move them off the lot.
Just another example of how GM can kill a good thing.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
I threw up in the back of my throat a little when I saw the center console. Trying to copy my iPod from high school 6 years ago for 2010? Really? The swivel screen part looks like a toy, and a cheap one at that. However the exterior looks great and the interior will be available in black so can’t complain too much.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
After seeing all the new pictures, I am more ready than I have been over the last 18 months….
I hope they get the distribution of the first year’s production set in place ASAP, and then begin taking deposits!
GO GM! – Go GM Volt Team!
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:13 pm
Dave G said:
“I still hate all the white shiny plastic. The white plastic looks great on iPods and Macs, but on a car interior it’s very distracting for the driver.”
What cars have you driven with a white shiny dash? I didn’t think there were any. I think I will wait for an actual review. I think I would prefer white over black. My Mazda has shiny black plastic that shows every finger print and spec of dust. More effort to keep it looking clean.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:13 pm
I am . . SO . . pleased to be on the Chevy Volt ‘wait list’!!!!
Unfortunately, my ‘number’ is around 3,000 and something.
I’m presently driving an ‘08 Malibu (which is a great auto!), but I’m ready to make the change to a Volt when they are available.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:16 pm
I have to admit….I’ve never bought a Chevy, nor did I have any plans to buy a Chevy—-until now. That car is attractive, the technology sounds solid, and if they can get the price point right, I’ll be driving one for sure.
Well done Chevy.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:17 pm
The car still looks far too dull. I think it still can be classified a “gamechanger”. However, the competition will be close on its heels. The EREV bar is set too low by this Volt. Although GM will likely sell every one they can build for the next few years. Assuming the price is reasonable. And to me, reasonable for this car is about $30000.
HOWEVER, I have been a critic of this styling since we first saw some details of its look. But, I am moderating a bit. This car is really not bad. It does not have the styling hooks a real gamechanging car should have, but it is acceptable. I would buy one. But not for more than $30000.
If it costs around $40000, then GM will likely have a problem. This car will not demand that premium over other fuel efficent cars currently available. Not for these sufficient but mundane looks. The car is simply not gripping enough for the GENERAL public to feel like they NEED it.
It is that simple. They better have some other better styled and more clever EREV vehicles coming SOON! The general public needs CHOICES if GM wants EREV to be widely accepted. Those of us that read this site ARE NOT the target market for this car.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:18 pm
Something happened in this design process that ruined the look! Stick with unique striking blunt wedge that made the concept version so exciting! That design really caught my attention. You really had me thinking GM could pull a rabbit out of a hat with that first rendition. Sorry, this one is a snoozer.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:19 pm
Wow, very nice. Much better looking than I had thought it would be. The lease on the WRX is up in 40 months, so GM, have all the bugs out and some good options ready and I’ll be visiting your dealerships!
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:20 pm
I am disappointed. I have followed this car from its concept until now. I have kept the photos on my bulletin board…………..now I look at what came out today. It looks like a combination between the Prius and Honda Civic hybrid. Perhaps Ok for the older generation, but what about us? Looking at the Camaro/Challenger, I was hopeful with this concept. I was going to sell my Mercedez SL500 and get one. Now, I can’t do it. It will really have to grow on me. It is not unique enough. The Camaro looks better and before, I thought the Volt was VERY retro and cool. Darn.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:27 pm
IMO, all the nitpicking on styling details aside, and assuming no significant hardware glitches in the early going, GM has a BIG winner here.
Most of us on this site are fans, but I believe the combination of this styling package plus the implications of the EREV concept will bring many old customers back, and more importantly for GM, create a bunch of new ones.
I recognize the need for the politics of the loan guarantees, etc, but hopefully this is more than a “halo” car.
To the designers (exterior and interior) – seriously good work.
To the folks working the drivetrain hardware and software – be encouraged…in this jaded old boy’s view, the packaging for your product is worthy of the goals of your efforts.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:30 pm
It looks amazingly similar to the generation 1 Prius, or even the Honda Civic. i wonder why they didn’t go directly to the hatchback concept.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:34 pm
I guess critical comments aren’t making it “live” to this site. But many other blogs feature people who are very unhappy with the final design of this Volt– Beaten absolutely silly with the ugly stick on every side.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:35 pm
Looks Very, Very Good. Not 40K good….but around 32K good.
Ricky, your salary will keep about 300 workers employed.
No dollars for you buddy until you can turn a profit for GM.
Now…. go make the “concept” Volt design a Killer Hybrid Success along with the “production” EREV Volt.
Price the Hybrid at 25K and burn up the production lines…with two Grand Slams. Multi Task boys.
No charge for the advice. Next time it will cost you 5 Mil.
Get my e mail from Lyle if you need a real project manager.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Very dis pointed on the looks, to much like a Prius and not the concept. The concept rocked. I think will pass on this one.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:39 pm
#202 Paul-R Says: “What cars have you driven with a white shiny dash? I didn’t think there were any.”
————————————————————————————-
Good point. I wonder why? It’s not like white shiny plastic hasn’t been available.
I just think it’s a really bad idea and may end up ruining the Volt. Maybe they will have an interior option without white shiny plastic. One can only hope…
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:41 pm
There’s some new videos of the Volt on YouTube. Exterior and interior. I gotta say, I think GM has done a good job on the Volt so far. There’s a few tweaks and minor things I would like them to change … but that’s to be expected for a newly unveiled car. Different people have different tastes and expectations in their cars. That’s why there’s so many varieties of cars and trucks on the road today.
No doubt, this car that was unveiled today DOES look better than the leaked photos. It’s not quite as sporty looking as I had hoped but it’s getting there. There’s still TWO years to go before we see the Volt in showrooms. The Volt design team might have a few more design tweaks they’re going to implement for the exterior.
Same thing with the interior. I’m sure they’ll refine some of the things with the interior a bit. Lots of “attention to detail” and so forth. Different color schemes, even more ergonomic, intuitive, easy to read, not TOO distracting, easy to learn to use, etc. I noticed from the video that you can program your Volt to charge using flexible calendar scheduling dates and times like you see with computers. Who knows what other pleasant surprises GM is going to have for us by November 2010. It looks like GM’s designers and engineers are really putting in a lot of time on this car. That attention to detail and style is what made the Apple iPhone such a success. When the latest high technology and well thought out design come together, you usually have a hit product.
Looking at one of the interior videos on YouTube gave me some answers I was wondering about. I noticed that there is a “Econ” and “Sprt” light on the center console. That means the engineers have programmed two modes for the perfomance of the car …. an economy mode for maximum battery life and fuel economy and a “sport mode” so you can get better acceleration. I’m hoping for maybe 0-60 in 7 seconds … never know. That would be awesome.
As the Tesla Roadster clearly shows, electric motors can be set up to go VERY fast indeed. The Tesla goes 0-60 in less than 4 seconds. “Maximum Bob” Lutz said they already have other E-Flex cars in development. I have a feeling that one of them is probably going to have PLENTY of performance like the Tesla does. I hear that Bob worked a lot on the Dodge Viper when he was at Chrysler. I’m sure if the batteries can be made to work optimally in a GM sports car, Bob will help get one on the market for us. Bob’s a former Marine pilot. He knows how us sports car people are. He knows about our “need for speed” and all that.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:46 pm
For a wider perspective on today’s introduction of the Volt. Today the Russian stock market took a serious hit. This new technology in personal transportation is a true sign that oil is a dying dinosaur in energy. These countries and dictators that bank on oil, will feel the sting of this new century. War and human suffering will also die with new leadership here in the west.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:48 pm
Ahhhh….the car looks better without the Zoolander male models!
Send a quote on the red with with cashmere leather and performance package so I can order one.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:49 pm
Hey now, Fran.
Zoolander + Volt = ultimate sales.
Just think.. a little Magnum to dazzle the crowd and they’ll never forget the innovation that is the Volt.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
I have no explanation for what I am about to say.
Last week, I hated the looks of this car in those released pictures.
Today, I really like the look of the car onstage.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
#88 and #100:
Seeing the GAP label on the steering wheel thrilled me today, as my XLR has Adaptive Cruise Control. If it works the same on the VOLT, then here is the answer pulled from the web: “A radar sensor at the front of the XLR constantly monitors the traffic ahead. If with the cruise control engaged, the radar beam detects another vehicle in the same lane, the roadster is automatically slowed down and maintains a gap pre-configured by the driver. If there is a stationary object ahead, the ACC system sounds an alarm and displays a warning signal for the driver in the windshield.”
Of course, the VOLT doesn’t have a heads up display like the XLR, so the warning would probably occur on the dash display. BTW, the icon above the LIM button is the same as in my heads up display when cruise control is on.
So what about CNL? Maybe an abbreviation for control. Keep in mind that the gap selection on the 2004 XLR is only about 5 choices for near and far, so it could be a rocker switch to adjust that gap limit.
More questions to ask GM for future topics. After all, we have hundreds of days to discuss the VOLT before delivery!
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:54 pm
@ Rich: “Beaten absolutely silly with the ugly stick on every side.”
(Bearing in mind that looks are a subjective matter) So can you please provide all these many examples of $ 30/40k great looking cars??
With very few notable exceptions (Mustang, Viper, new Charger, Camaro and few others) most of the cars sold in the US (American and even more so Japanese made) look like total crap to me.
I said the Volt looked nice to me (and I repeat once again that it’s not its looks to make this car so exciting) but after viewing on the GM site the many videos and photos released today I find it both very classy and sporty (actually more pleasant than the prototype!). Lookswise it’s certainly way above the average of the crap (again, lookswise) that’s sold in the USA today.
Short of winning the lottery and driving Ferraris, Lamborghinis or Maseratis, the Volt is the only car, among the ones available today or confirmed to go into production within the next few years, that makes (much) better sense than my Opel Corsa CDTI Speedtronic…
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:55 pm
By the way, it appears that Apple has completely abandoned white shiny plastic. iPod nanos seem to be avilable in every color but white. iPod classic is black or silver brushed aluminum with a chrome plated back. Even the Mac is now brushed aluminum. See here:
http://www.apple.com/
What was GM thinking? I sure hope there is time in the schedule to change this.
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
NPNS LJGTVWOTR!
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September 16th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
“Does anyone else think the rear end (apart from the fantastic looking taillights) looks very much like the Aztec? I seem to remember the Aztec being universally regarded as the ugliest car produced in recent times, why would they re-create that?”
Now that you mention it, it does look like the Aztec in the rear!…LOL…Saw one today in the parking lot and remembered reading that it is regarded by some as the ugliest vehicle of all time…GM must have though that was a good idea at some point as well…..
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:04 pm
#216 Frank D:
God send that it shall be true.
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:06 pm
I agree with some of the others in saying the interior has not much going for it. It leaves me wanting more.
For this to be one of a kind concept car you would think that the designers would, could do more on the creative side.
I would get ride of all the buttons and knobs and replace them with a touch screen. This is only one of a few items that need to be changed…..
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:06 pm
I like the car better than last week too. I think having those guys in closeup in front of the Volt distracted from the overall lines of the car (and not because they are geeks and nerds as some dim bulbs were saying).
It’s a very sharp car but it just doesn’t have the uniqueness and sportiness to command $40K. That’s going to be a problem for all electric cars (Tesla won’t tell you how much range they gave away with their lines. That car is meant to be parked in a garage and driven 2 or 3 times a year by rich people going to awards banquets).
GM should know, they are not going to be able to get over $30K for this car. That’s just a fact.
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
WOW!
Gm has got a winner here…..just need to wait …find out pricing…and whether govt’s will offer consumers incentives to buy. They did with the Prius….
Thanks for all the info Lyle!
Can’t wait to drive..
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:11 pm
#225 noel park
NO i DID NOT
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
Lyle – I want one!!!! It is not what the prototype looked like but it is still a nice looking car. I will fly to MI if I have to to get one! Do you suppose they will offer them in white pearl?
YEAH!!! I’m so excited!
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:16 pm
#126
Scott Durham
“I would rather purchase the “Think” coming here next year from Norway. They have 14 years building electric cars. The “Think” goes 120 miles on a charge. You should check out their website”
What if you have drive 121 miles? Are you going to push the car for the extra 1 mile until you get home?
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:17 pm
that interior… uughhhh
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
I watched the live broadcast video on the GM site and have to say that made me go — I like it! — plus the new pics are MUCH more favorable to the fair treatment of the visual aspects of the car than the leaked photos from last week. Now, they just gotta get ‘em made so we can buy them. Looks were a factor for me and now I’m satisfied that I’ll like it when I see it in person.
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
I am so excited I nearly peed myself.
LJGTVWOTR!
Remeber GM no plug no sale
Take Care,
TED
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:26 pm
Well, the thing looks totally boring. Not bad, but very uninspiring exterior. The interior looks pretty cool though. I guess they want to make something that looks like a Camery or some other nondescript sedan. It should sell well to the general public but not to auto enthusiasts unless they are real techno-geeks.
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:27 pm
#119 Jackson
I apologize for my post at #125. It was rude.
What is posted is not what I was intending to write, but I accidentallly hit enter. Then, because of the intense server demand at that time, the system would not respond and let me edit or extend it before time expired. Thus what is there is quite different from the intended post..
I basically agree with what you posted and was intending to extend it a little bit.
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Overall slick looking vehicle – nose could lose some of it’s “Cheviness” for a more dynamic look… but overall a good looking car.
Will definitely be on my purchase list… as long as it has a plug!
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:57 pm
#236 RB
It takes a big person to apologize. You must be a 7-footer.
I think good thoughts about the Volt everyday, and I’m pretty cynical. GM, do this right and you will rule! All in all, so far, so good.
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September 16th, 2008 at 6:59 pm
#100 & #220
Thanks for the reply. I agree about the RES and SET for cruise control. #220’s comments sound very plausible about GAP controls.
Any ideas about the 3rd set of controls on left side of steering wheel with the gauge/car/arrow and LIM?
I am still hoping GM gives the driver some control over the rate of regen deceleration while in cruise control thus giving a down shift like capability for steep hill descent.
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Exterior looks OK. It looks like a car, not a prop from a Science Fiction set or something out of a Hotrod shop. The thing making it different is the drive train technology. The looks isn’t going to be a deal breaker for me. My two biggest concerns are:
1. Ease of use of the interior controls. How easy will it be to find the right control without taking my eyes off the road. That still isn’t clear from the pictures.
2. How much the thing will cost. I’m on the wait list, but let’s see what happens by 2010.
Need a test engineer to drive a prototype around in the real world? Course I tested turbines, not cars.
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
This is WAY better than those last pics I saw. Great job. This will be my next car after my 2007 Monte Carlo is paid off.
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:04 pm
How soon can I buy one?
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
234 Ted – “I am so excited I nearly peed myself” ?
Are you sure we watched the same webcast ? I thought it was a total snore-fest until the last 3 minutes (when the rolled out the Volt). I don’t really care what cars they sell elsewhere, and most of the “hosts” looked and sounded like they were forced to read a script at gunpoint. Here’s the link to what I watched. All 68 mostly boring minutes of it.
http://www.gmeurope.tv/webcast/
Well, looks like the Volt will not be sold in any US state which requires a front license tag – the Volt’s front end has absolutely no place to attach one. That is a requirement in the state where I live. Seriously, there is no way to attach a front tag to the Volt without damaging the front end, and ruining the aerodynamic flow.
If any of you also live in a “front tag required” state or country, you have my condolences. It’s not easy to watch your dream die on a worldwide stage. You could always move to Pennsylvania or another “back tag only” state, but I’m stuck in the state where I am, for now.
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
IMO GM has a winner. As always, I encourage them to honor and extend Lyle’s waiting list!
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:13 pm
These pictures look alot better then the ones that were said to be leaked. I don’t like it as much as the prototype, but if the price is right, and the gas savings is the same as advertised-I’m buying!
http://www.campaignforliberty.org
Write-in Ron Paul for President 2008!
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:18 pm
Pictures are somewhat disappointing; looks like a Toyota Prius with a different grill. I much prefer the sporty Volt concept car’s good looks. If the Volt’s price target is $30,000 vs $22,000 for the time-tested Toyota…. good luck.
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:21 pm
I like it!
I wrote something more consequential this morning but the servers ate it. I’ll keep this uncharacteristically short.
Anybody else notice the “leaf” button (it looks like a picture of a leaf)? Just to the left of the “config” button on the upper right of the center console. Am I behind the times? What is a leaf supposed to mean? I remember I couldn’t figure out what the snowflake button was on the Eclipse dash, either, initially (hey, the car was AWD, I thought it had something to do with snow, not the A/C!)
I’m concerned about the reduction in horsepower… Since the electric motors are basically constant power devices, this will reduce available torque across all RPMs (quoted torque number is almost meaningless out of context, as that is assuredly at “barely moving” RPMs and will taper off at an unknown rate from there, depending on the motor… Although some guesses could be made given the power claim… I might throw some equations at it later if I have time
).
In any case, I theorize that the 100mph maximum speed may be due to a reduction in gearing to increase available torque. This would make sense to offset the reduced horsepower. So, acceleration may not be affected, yet, it has potential implications for drivetrain efficiency and regeneration ability. I will eagerly await more data.
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:22 pm
Question is…will you be able to charge this with a solar panel (free transportation)?
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
Consider me disappointed.
The front end looks too much like a Malibu. The back is okay. Liked the concept car’s looks better.
$40,000 for a car with severe range limitations is going to be hard to justify. Don’t forget about battery replacement costs.
I just bought an import that gets 38 mpg. I can drive 209,000 miles with the money I saved by not buying a $40,000 car. That’s 7 years for me.
The Volt is definitely a step in the right direction and I applaud GM for leading the way (it’s about time). I hope it proves to be hugely successful. But for me, at this time, it’s not the answer. Not until the range issues are addressed.
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:25 pm
#243 The Grump:
Well, California is definitely a target state and requires “wink wink” front plates although I see a lot of cars without them.
The front plate on my 20 year old car has been hammered into a nice bumper-shape by years of rocks and curbs. Perhaps we just need to accelerate the “mould” of our Volt license plates with ball peen hammers.
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
to #248kollac…YES! just imagine having solar panels on the roof (to power all your household needs, or only enough for your Volt). If you drive to work everyday and the commute is less than 40 miles…it’s as good as free!
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
WOW! I am so EXCITED! Finally a first car maker serious about future cars and design. I really like it. Looks like the inside is inspired by Apple’s design. Good choice =)
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:40 pm
Is there a reason no one knows the price? Perhaps this is going to be another GM lease scheme that ends as the EV1 in a mandatory junkyard dump?
Can we trust Detroit not to burn us again? I am going for the new Honda Insight. I have enjoyed the first gen Honda Insight at over 60mpg for a decade now, and another on the horizon for less than 20K (not 30-50,000 as the volt)
http://www.hondanews.com/categories/857/search/photosq=08insightconcept&s=honda
My biggest fear is that the new technology in Volt does not work correctly and by the time the Volt is ready for the lemon-law, Chevy will have followed Lehman with the foreclosure sign on the lawn, leaving me stuck with no Voltage and no remediation. Worse than all us suckers with the promise of, and ultimate scheming of, the EV1.
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:44 pm
I can say these pictures are better than what we have seen. The concept really was an eye catcher. I do think this car will be a hot seller if the price is right. I’m #25,000 on the list so I don’t anticipate getting this car anytime soon. Anyone know about the plug-in Saturn Vue- mi/charge, price?
Best of luck Lyle and GM
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:46 pm
Actually, I like the new version better – the original concept was too “chopped-top” – what hot-rodders used to do – the side windows
wwere simply way too short. The top and rear of the concept were by far for me the best part of the car, and they seem to have survived largely intact. Those who are disappointed should wait for the Pontiac or Cadddy version (which is probably close to the Provoq concept they displayed last year).
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September 16th, 2008 at 7:54 pm
Sweet!!! I’d pay $40k for that – But not much more for the base model…. I am hoping some model comes with a solar panel in place of the black roof (I drive 42mi to work so I would be nice to have it recharge a bit while it sits in the parking lot at work).
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September 16th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
Congrats GM!
Production VOLT looks super!.
I think concept looked awkward and very odd on the road.
Interior may need some final touches and GM may want to think twice on the white color of the center panel before finalizing the interior.
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September 16th, 2008 at 8:00 pm
#247 DaveP – “In any case, I theorize that the 100mph maximum speed may be due to a reduction in gearing to increase available torque. This would make sense to offset the reduced horsepower”
Most vehicles end up being limited to 100 mph because the tires aren’t rated for higher speeds, and the manufacturer wants to avoid liability for producing the car that can go faster than the wheels are supposed to go. Hence they limit the speed.
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September 16th, 2008 at 8:01 pm
And to think that the whole world thinks America is in decline, here comes GM proving them wrong!
Thank you , GM, for continuing the American tradition of ALWAYS finding a solution to a crisis.
Whatever happens in the future, I am proud of you for this achievement.
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September 16th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
Excellent! Now; GM, don’t let up — full steam ahead!
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September 16th, 2008 at 8:07 pm
I have been interested in PHEVs since the Sci Am article a couple of years ago, and have been following this site since I discovered it. Go Dr. Lyle!! I would like to see the PHEV concept succeed for the same reasons as everybody else–fight high gas prices, end dependence on corrupt and evil oil kingdoms (not you, Norway), and reduce pollution (although the jury is still out on MMGW, IMHO).
But none of these goals are accomplished if GM sells 10,000 Volts a year to the gear heads among us, or 100,000 a year to the extreme tree huggers who want a carbon footprint less than half the size of the Prius. PHEV becomes significant if it ever attracts the economic buyer–the person who is willing to invest many thousands up front to save even more thousands on gasoline costs.
So at what gas price does the Volt attract the economic buyer? My analysis indicates a disappointing $8 per gallon. My logic is below. If there are bad assumptions in my model, I would love to hear comments from the quantitatively oriented among you.
I can buy a Cobalt for $14.4k MSRP, and get 25 city 37 highway, for an average of 31 mpg. Or I can buy a Volt for about $37.5k, and operate on battery power for the first 40 miles of each trip, then get 50 MPG. Factoring in a $7k tax credit for the Volt, it costs me $16.1k extra for a PHEV. In a 100k mile lifetime, the Cobalt would burn 3,225 gallons of gas. How much would gas have to cost to justify the Volt? The answer is about a little more than $7.00 per gallon. At that price,. the Cobalt’s lifetime fuel cost would be $22.6k The comparable lifetime energy cost for a Volt, assuming 60% of miles are driven using battery ($0.02/mile per GM), and 40% of miles are driven using gas (50 MPG) would be $6.8k, as savings of $15.8k, or three hundred dollars less than the extra purchase cost for the Volt.
So $7 per gallon is not even break even, and since the $16.1 premium is paid up front, and the energy savings only come gradually over the life of the car, you do not hook the economic buyer until gas hits about $8 per gallon, and he comes out about $3k ahead on the deal, ignoring the time value of money.
So gentle readers, please comment on this economic model, but note that the model is only sensitive to the price premium of the Volt, and the lifetime gas cost of the reference ICE car. Arguing about whether the lifetime energy cost of the Volt is $6.8k or $5.8k will not change the outcome.
Meanwhile, I will follow up with a post on my demented opinions on the implications of all of this.
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September 16th, 2008 at 8:09 pm
very nice. The only thing is I don’t want to see it against a plain background. I want to see it in my garage.
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September 16th, 2008 at 8:10 pm
I like it too, and I do want a solar roof, but keep in mind you will not usually get a good charge from it. I honestly want one that will run the cooling system for free as it’s parked, supplementary charging is secondary. So I come back to a nice, well-ventilated car and battery and don’t have to wonder if I’m overheating. In real world plug-in tests you get between five to ten miles extra a day from a solar roof, so I’m all for it, but keep within reasonable expectations. You will not get away from the plug through solar.
Why IS the roof like that, anyway?
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September 16th, 2008 at 8:11 pm
This car looks great! Exactly what I expected for a compact, electric car (the prototype had about a 125″ wheelbase, similar to a Tahoe).
The car appears very streamline and aerodynamic, yet it is futuristic with the transparent roof, unique rear spoiler, and other subtle design cues. I will bet that the underbody is designed to be aerodynamic as well.
The interior has a configurable display. As mentioned by others, this is probably close to something you would find in a modern jet aircraft. Definately a step beyond the competition.
The proof will be in the performance. I believe GM will over-deliver on the 40 mile AER, and also on the 50 mpg with ICE operation. 0-60 may not be as good as 7 seconds (as was once mentioned) with the motor reduced to 111 kW. Also, top speed has been reduced from 120 to 100 mph, and again, this may be due to tire issues or excessive power consumption.
Also, GM may have reduced top speed to provide better acceleration via a different speed reduction.
With this modern design, good performance, and the futuristic interior, GM will have no problem selling the 60,000 units per year they have planned for the 2nd year of production.
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