AND 
POLL: Chevy Volt Concept Versus Production Version
We previously ran polls about GM-Volt.com reader preference with regards to concept versus production design. Those were biased however in that we were comparing grainy video stills and poorly framed and angled images.
Now that we can see the fruit of many months and many millions of dollars of labor by GMs E-Flex design team, it is most appropriate to take another poll.
You already know what I think, so lets let GM and the world know what the die-hard Volt fan base on this site thinks too. GM vice chair Bob Lutz has weighed in on his blog, and described the design changes as being the most beautiful possible around its aerodynamic dictates. He also pointed out that the emotional drive to buy this car will not be just appearance but more so what lies beneath the skin. Our last poll here showed 68% felt driving without gas was most important thing about the Volt, 2% believed it was looks, and 36% felt both factors were equally important.
So for the final poll on this matter:
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223 Responses to “POLL: Chevy Volt Concept Versus Production Version”
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September 17th, 2008 at 11:53 am
I would buy either of these.
I want a vehicle of this type and want to be one of the first. I owned a Corvette so the prototype appeals to me and the Corvette did very well on gas on the freeway. It is the best sports car for the price. I also want a car where I can get at least 4 into, has premium sound, plush interior and uses almost no gas. So it is the platform I am buying overall.
I have solar on my home, so this will cost me close to zero to run..
September 17th, 2008 at 11:53 am
production looks gorgeous. Best looking alternative vehicle out there yet.
September 17th, 2008 at 11:53 am
So back to the meat…where are the mules?
September 17th, 2008 at 12:03 pm
We’ve reached a tipping point where ’styling’ must serve the functionality of the car, rather than the reverse; where a car was (in the old days) frequently spec’d only in terms of being able to support a style.
That being said, style still needn’t be ignored and it hasn’t been.
Compare what effort has gone into applying style to the aerodynamic needs of the PHEVs, verses what has gone into the production Volt. There is no comparison. The Prius is an appliance; the Volt, for all of it’s ground-breaking technology, is still a car.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:06 pm
Beautiful car.
Sure, I thought the concept was cool….but um, I am not 18 any more and don’t drive cars like the concept, nor does 95% of America.
One plug, right at the driver side door….OF COURSE, this makes perfect sense. If there were two, or it was in the back, etc., people would be driving off with it still plugged in all the time. But with that placement it will never happen. That type of attention to detail by GM shows why this car will be a success.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:09 pm
They both look great. The concept had a really aggressive look with it’s sleek body, long hood, and bold face. The Production version has a much more expressive front end and a very nice roof line with it’s steep windshield, gentle slope back window, and high trunk lid. The only thing that bothers me about the production version is it has that bloated economy car look. Short wheel base, short hood, and a tall / low body.
But as others have said its certainly better than any other ultra efficient car, and most compacts really. Its very very difficult to make a small sedan with great looking and practical proportions. I think this is about as good as it’s going to get.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:09 pm
I honestly preferred the style of the concept Volt, however the production Volt does not disappoint at all. Actually, the interior is way better in the production Volt. (My opinion) I did vote that I like the concept volt more, but based on the pictures above.. (exterior.)
September 17th, 2008 at 12:11 pm
The Volt will be the best looking 4 door on the road. It looks a lot like the concept. But more like a normal persons car less like a sports car.
I never liked the big body small window look. The concept would not have been a comfortable car to drive.
But the bottom line is this will be the best looking 4 door on the road when it passes by the gas stations.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:13 pm
I really don’t understand those who have professed such disappointment at the production design that they say they will no longer buy a Volt.
First of all, I think it looks great. But more importantly, did these people fail to notice that when the Volt was introduced the emphasis was not on muscle-car looks, but on the all-electric range? The point of the Volt has never been styling; that’s not where it’s revolutionary.
But even when it comes to styling, I much prefer the refined, smooth lines of the production version to the concept, which reminds me too much of all the square, American muscle cars of the past that invoke all that was wrong with Detroit: power without refinement, performance over environment.
The new Volt is a thing of beauty. One day, it will be in my garage.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:15 pm
My favorite one is the production, of course the concept was all nice and al but it looked too racy to be serious… I have nothing to do with a monster. Of course I’d like to be seen in the concept driving around but the car will be used to go to work everyday stay in a prking all day long and be used to get back home at night and maybe go shopping later on… Not for showing off.
I need a nice cars that still get out of the lot but that is still an everyday car.
LJGTVWOTR!! NPNS!
September 17th, 2008 at 12:18 pm
I like the production version. I have always liked sleek cars so the concept never really did it for me.
One thing I really like is that the production version appears to have disc brakes all around. Initially, the \Volt was reported to have drum brakes on the rear. UUuuuuugh. drum brakes. They are cheap, they are a pain and they make a car look cheap, too. That and the styling seems to cover up what kind of suspension is in the rear. If it’s not independent, it looks good to cover that up as well.
I also notice that the downloadable photos from the GM website of the interior don’t match the photos on autoblog. That “leaf” icon I mentioned in a previous thread is in a different spot and the “sport/econ” button is alternately labeled “econ/hold” and there are more differences, too. Does anybody know why the photos are so different?
September 17th, 2008 at 12:19 pm
Prototype products are concepts. They are mainly used for marketing purposes. My enthusiasm from the start has always been with the electrification of a mass produced car. Go Volt and GM!
September 17th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
I love the concept for some of the wrong reasons but I love the production for all the right reasons. I’ll be waiting in line to buy one and I’ll drive it with pride when they become available.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
I prefer the looks of the concept…..a normal thing since concepts don’t have to be practical but I don’t dislike the production car. Although it does have one styling feature I don’t like and is common to many cars. I like the line of the hood to follow all the way to the rear. This car (like the Prius) notches down at the windows and back up again at the trunk. Ruins the lines of the car IMO but not enough to keep me from buying it if no other EREV options exist in 2011…unless I win the lottery and can buy a Fisker.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:20 pm
The production version is nice enough. I think a cross between the concept and the final version would probably have hit the right note
and satisfy the holdouts. This is still a huge leap forward and not
the last word in electric cars. Some future model will probably blow
us away looks wise. Unfortunately it is not now.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
I love the look of both vehicles, but the production model gives me the type of car I want, zero emmissions – from the car itself – when you stay within the 65 Km range of the batteries. The concept may suffer from poorer areodynamics than the production model, so maybe several Km are lost due to it, but I’m sure there are many people who would love to own it for the looks and not the miliage. Look at all the people who own muscle cars, It’s the look and not the fuel miliage that some people want.
If the cost of the Volt is reasonable, I would seriously buy one. Though as being the first model out and all the R & D that went into the Volt, Chevy will want to recoup some of those expenses in the sale of these cars. I just hope that they do it over a long period of time, several models, so that the volt can be an affordable car for everyone now rather than, say 10 years down the road when the EV is the proven car.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:21 pm
Well I don’t always agree with Mr. Lutz, but he’s right this time.
LJGTVWOTR!! NPNS!
September 17th, 2008 at 12:24 pm
I voted for / prefer the Concept Volt from a pure appearance perspective.
However, does that materially change my passion or emotional attachment to the car? No. The production appearance is still very appealing, and the interest I have for the car transcends appearance anyway. It would have to look much, much worse for me to turn away. I’m still excited.
^ Willing to wager this is the most common sentiment.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:28 pm
Q:
What’s better than a car having two bucket seats that’s able to get off the line in a hurry?
A:
A car having four bucket seats that’s able to get off the line in a hurry.
The production Volt looks very good. And having the option to drive shorter distances without using Exxon gasoline gives the Volt inner beauty as well.
I hope GM stays reasonable with the initial price. Getting the momentum going with decent pricing will pay off long term. More and more people will be wondering what the next model offering of GM range extended EV will be. Word of mouth is golden.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
“…let GM and the world know what the die-hard Volt fan base on this site think…”
If you are a die-hard Volt fan, if you want the Volt to blossom, then you need to vote for the production version. The real Volt needs support.
The technology, not the looks, make the Volt different. Any ICE car can look like concept Volt. In its essence, the Volt is an affordable 40-mile AER E-REV sedan with good performance. For the Volt, form follows function to a great degree. Realistically, the Volt needs good aerodynamics. The rest is just window dressing. If you vote for the concept appearance, you are not really a die-hard Volt fan. You are an exhibitionist with an unrealistic expectations. You should spend time looking at muscle cars and exotic sports cars, with their poor fuel efficiencies.
Your sporty/muscley E-REV will come eventually, when the technology matures. We are not there yet. We will get there using baby steps. The real (i.e., production) Volt is the first step. Support it.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:39 pm
My opinion: It’s a good looking car and has some distinctive features. Its wide stance and other details make it quite different from Toyota and Honda models. I’m truly mystified by people who are making those kinds of comparisons.
Off topic:
An interior picture of the middle display clearly show that the Volt can be programmed to charge at different times. That answers one of my questions.
One of the pictures clearly shows an ECONO/SPRT switch. Lyle, please find out what this does! (Perhaps it’s the “I’m going up Pike’s Peak later today” switch?)
The following article on batteries is a bit depressing:
http://www.wheels.ca/article/362512
GM has not published acceleration specs. The above article suggests that a battery getting to EOL loses power, not energy. So, is GM hedging its bets because they haven’t got enough cycles done yet to see the impact of time on power availability? Definitely my major concern, along with cost, at this point.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
We are getting a lot of comments lately. Lyle, you should charge a nickel per comment.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
#18 ‘Snowy’ – I agree 100%
I voted for the concept…
I too was upset about the death of the concept but at least I was and I am practical about it…
Hey least this isn’t a freakin’ Prius and it doesn’t remind me of a Nerd Shoe in the least bit…
________
From previous post, thank you ‘TOM M’…great questions that I agree with 100%
1. Will the Volt only be available in the three states that were mentioned earlier?
2. Will dealers jack the price because of limited supply?
3. Will we be able to go to the designated states and purchase a VOLT?
4. Is GM looking at our waiting list?
5. At some point will GM accept purchase money?
________
You call that affordable??!!!
I was extremely interested in what Tesla was doing, I’m even on their e-newsletter mailing list — then I found this site and the Volt — so I haven’t been paying attention to Tesla’s progress….
I knew that Tesla was planning on a sedan that was supposed to be more affordable than the Tesla Roadster @ $109,000 ….which is obviously only for the UBER-rich…. then I see this article today:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/tesla_motors;_ylt=Atfk_No9fN3MiIQU6BZwp1Ss0NUE
From the article:
“It is our intention to service the entire market,” CEO Ze’ev Drori said in an interview with The Associated Press. “We are not a niche player.”
Then they list a price of $60,000 for this thing!!!
Sorry dude, but that is a ‘niche’ that I would not consider to be affordable. Sure, its cheaper than the Roadster but man that is still a LOT of money to pay for a car, maybe not ‘UBER-rich’ but you better be one wealthy bastard to get on that waiting list.
Point being, you need to do your best to keep the Volt well under $40,000 GM…
(my personal breaking point right now is $35k – sans any tax breaks)
September 17th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
#18 ‘Snowy’ – I agree 100%
I voted for the concept…
I too was upset about the death of the concept but at least I was and I am practical about it…
Hey least this isn’t a freakin’ Prius and it doesn’t remind me of a Nerd Shoe in the least bit…
________
From previous post, thank you ‘TOM M’…great questions that I agree with 100%
1. Will the Volt only be available in the three states that were mentioned earlier?
2. Will dealers jack the price because of limited supply?
3. Will we be able to go to the designated states and purchase a VOLT?
4. Is GM looking at our waiting list?
5. At some point will GM accept purchase money?
________
You call that affordable??!!!
I was extremely interested in what Tesla was doing, I’m even on their e-newsletter mailing list — then I found this site and the Volt — so I haven’t been paying attention to Tesla’s progress….
I knew that Tesla was planning on a sedan that was supposed to be more affordable than the Tesla Roadster @ $109,000 ….which is obviously only for the UBER-rich…. then I see this article today:
‘http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/tesla_motors;_ylt=Atfk_No9fN3MiIQU6BZwp1Ss0NUE’
From the article:
“It is our intention to service the entire market,” CEO Ze’ev Drori said in an interview with The Associated Press. “We are not a niche player.”
Then they list a price of $60,000 for this thing!!!
Sorry dude, but that is a ‘niche’ that I would not consider to be affordable. Sure, its cheaper than the Roadster but man that is still a LOT of money to pay for a car, maybe not ‘UBER-rich’ but you better be one wealthy bastard to get on that waiting list.
Point being, you need to do your best to keep the Volt well under $40,000 GM…
(my personal breaking point right now is $35k – sans any tax breaks)
September 17th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
I smell a trap! Wouldn’t it be funny if only the people that voted for the production got one of the first production Volts? You no like it? No Volt for you!
I voted for the concept. It’s a risk I’m willing to take.
September 17th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
Wow… this is a relatively calm discussion so far. Where did all the trolls suddenly go? Could it be they were all actually the same individual (or small cluster thereof), and that person is away, getting a big wart removed from his/her face today? Am I onto something here?
September 17th, 2008 at 12:50 pm
This is fantastic the only thing left to do is get it to us, and remember lets get America going with– NO PLUG NO SALE –gotta get everybody saying it
September 17th, 2008 at 12:59 pm
Although I still prefer the concept version, understanding that changes HAD to be made the production version looks pretty good and would not keep me from buying a Volt.
My only real concern from an aesthetics point of view is the trim around the LCD screens. Is it really white like it looks in the photo’s. If it is, it looks cheap and plastic to me. At least give me some interior options with that trim like may metallic or even black.
GM, keep up the hard work !!
September 17th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
I’ve said this before, but as more and more time passes the acceptance of the Volt production will obviously go up. As of today alot more people recognize the production…and have never seen the concept.
And further to that, more and more people will lend support blindly, regardless if they preffered the concept or not…case in point:
#20 ThombDbhomb Says:
If you are a die-hard Volt fan, if you want the Volt to blossom, then you need to vote for the production version. The real Volt needs support.
/sorry to use you my friend
——-
Take this poll once a month right up to November 2010, and you will find the numbers improving everytime.
September 17th, 2008 at 1:08 pm
I like them both. If I had to choose though, it would be a sportier version every time.
What the hell is wrong with you people, and what is so bad about a sporty car? Why would you want to blend in with all the other dull boring people on the road anyway. What’s the point of spending all that money on a car that is not fun to drive?
Either Volt looks fun to drive though, IMHO.
(I drive a red Corvette by the way. ~30mpg and 300HP)
September 17th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
The concept and the production vehicles aren’t even a little bit the same vehicle. At the 40k mark they are competing with the likes of BMW and Mercedes. I know being a plug-in has a certain value to people (me) but at 40k + the thing needed to be a knockout, and VERY different. I could feel cool driving the concept, driving the production vehicle I’m just driving a gas-sipper. While that in and of itself is worthy, it doesn’t cover the 20k price hike over the new Honda insight. I’m a fan of buying American whenever possible, but there is no financial sense to this, there is not really a great deal of “wow factor” they’ll have to start working on the price now.
had they kept more true to the concept car, they would have had an easier time selling the volt at 40+ as it would be a “premium car” as opposed to an economy car for 40k
September 17th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
looks like #29 is like me. 30 mpg in my Vette with 400 hp. I dont mind paying real money for a stand-out car as a “beater”, but this doesn’t stand out.
September 17th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
Again, I stress that the concept car is very sexy but not practical. Not from an average family or business view. GM is following a very sound decision. The concept car is dynamite but would have the aero dynamics of a brick. If you want a sport car buy a Vett or Viper. GM has to sell a car to the masses. The concept is not that car. The production car does not look like a Prius or an Insight. This will be my first GM product. I am just over 1000 on the wait list
and I can not wait to get my hands on one. Great job to the engineers and Lyle!
September 17th, 2008 at 1:33 pm
Okay, so I joined this site quite a while back, but never posted. I’ve been keeping up just about every day though and have been reading the comments right along.
I voted for both cars. I love the look of the concept and was thrilled that an electric car could look like that instead of what the competition looks like. (Yes, I know they are not EREV). I am a camaro enthusiast, so I love the concept’s muscle car lines. Anyway, I have thought about what it would feel like to sit in and drive the concept, and it doesn’t look all that comfortable. It looks short. I am a relatively tall woman and I think I would feel like I’d be ducking all the time.
I like the look of the production car, it looks “drive-able”. I see the concept within the production car, especially the short distance between the rear wheel and the back of the car. I am so excited to own one, I can’t wait!
Done rambling, I hope I got my point across.
)
September 17th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
YAK, YAK, YAK…
Where’s mine?
September 17th, 2008 at 1:39 pm
GM has done it again and ruined a perfectly good chance to set itself apart from the auto industry. They are playing it safe instead of leading the pack. The production Volt looks like a Chevy Malibu and inspires visits to the grocery store. This is a sad, sad day for all automotive aficionados.
September 17th, 2008 at 1:42 pm
It would be great to own the production version. What it represents to loosen our dependence on foreign oil is tremendous! Hopefully one day it will be possible for all homes to own similar technology. If you can afford it, buy it. The future generations of America will look back and think, they paid big bucks so we could have a better life, financially and environmentally! Thanks GM!
September 17th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
#27 Dale Says: “My only real concern from an aesthetics point of view is the trim around the LCD screens. Is it really white like it looks in the photo’s. If it is, it looks cheap and plastic to me. At least give me some interior options with that trim like may metallic or even black.”
————————————————————————————–
I hate the white trim also, but it looks like GM will offer other colors.
Here’s a snippet from autoblog:
“The center stack draws a lot of attention for its shape, unique touch interface and bright white surfacing. Volt buyers will be able to choose from several colors for the center stack, however, including white, metallic black, and even green. ”
http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/16/video-walkthrough-of-2011-chevy-volt-interior/
If it’s true, that’s great news!
September 17th, 2008 at 2:03 pm
I saw the concept car out in front of RFK stadium in Washington DC and it was a real head turner. This production model is about as unique from a looks perspective as most 4-door sedans today. Yawn.
Yeah, yeah, I know, it’s all about the drivetrain and the little engine that could, but in my book they lost a lot of head turning in the finished version. I understand the reasoning they had to make, but the production model is still a visual let down.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:06 pm
I’ve said, since I first saw it, that the Concept is attractive … from a sculptural point of view. But. I’ve never had one bit of interest in owning or driving any sort of vehicle looking like that.
The biggest question I have now is … How much?
Second biggest question I have is … How long after Volt 1.0 before we get a wagon variant?
September 17th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
I love the production version. The styling is great.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
I don’t really think this is a fair pole. Of course the concept car looks better. All concept cars look like a cross between the Batmobile and Speed racer’s Mach V. However, none could ever make a straight transition between concept car to production vehicle due to Federal rules on safely and fuel economy. I remember seeing an interview with Bob Lutz when the Volt concept was first made public. He stated that the first thing that would be changed would be the tires because they would not be legal for the car. If GM wanted to make the Volt a “Boy Toy” they would be converting Saturn Sky’s to run on electric like AMP Motorworks. No the Volt has now gone “Boy Toy Concept” car to a car that a typical middle class American with a wife and two kids can drive to work and take his kids to soccer practice. Don’t forget, for the first time in almost a 100 years that typical middle class American will be using little or no gasoline
September 17th, 2008 at 2:12 pm
Although I very much like the production version, I voted for the concept because it stands out much better and really distinguishes itself. Regardless, I’d still buy the production version if I can afford it.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
I liked the look of the concept version, for what it was, when it was first introduced. But when I saw it I thought, “no way, GM’s not serious about this concept and it’s too bad because it’s a good idea that will never be produced.
Well, the world changed. Toyota passed GM in sales, Tesla made a BEV and the risks of the Volt soon became necessities for GM. When development was green-lighted I thought it was weird that the concept publicity shots were still used, because obviously this would never make it as a production muscle car, let alone a REEV.
Then began all the wailing and gnashing of teeth, as though a plague had descended upon Voltdom – I mean the unauthorized GM Volt executive shots were released. What a bunch of whiners.
Then I studied the Volts 100th anniversary official release shots. And I thought, hey custom paint, big wheels, low profile tires, hey I think this can actually look better than the concept. After all the chopped roofline and huge hood never really caught on with wide acceptance (except among gangsters and pimps a few moonshiners and ex surfers) until the Chrysler 300 anyway. Then I thought, well what image are we trying for here, street racers. Are we trying to look faster than Porschas and Corvettes, or do we want to drive the first vehicles that look good, are practical enough for daily use and help to get us off imported oil.
Conclusion: I’d like to get a Volt but I’ll wait to plan on modifying it – after all should it look like a street racer; or like the future of automobiles, whatever that will look like?
September 17th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Lyle,
I see you’ve changed the photo at the top of the page from the concept to the production version.
Looks good!
September 17th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
You know, my Corvette was not exactly a “practical” family vehicle. I will give you that. So I bought a “practical” sedan that is both sporty, “sexy”, and gets 25-30mpg to boot, a Mazda6. Who says practical has to be boring.
I’d really like to see the aerodynamic specs on the new Volt verses the concept. I’d really like to see how much it really changed.
Oh and #32, VaBchJim
Actually, the Coefficient of Drag for a brick is about 2.1. The Cd for a Corvette is about 0.28. The Cd for the original EV1 was 0.195 (mainly due to the rear wheel fairings). The Cd for the Aptera is an astounding 0.11.
Oh and just for fun, the Cd of a Hummer H3 is… wait for it… 0.57, more than a metro bus which comes in at around 0.425. No wonder it gets 10mpg.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
I have been waiting for a long time to buy a green car. I haven’t buy one because I hate the look of the Prius. I was very excited when I saw the Volt concept. I was very much wanting to buy one. But now you are going to produce one look like a cousin of Prius. Very very disappointing. The new design looks very boring.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:20 pm
@43 BillR, and @ Lyle:
>> I see you’ve changed the photo
Yeah! Looks good!! That’s nothing short of a milestone.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
I made the HeeeeYooooouge mistake of showing my wife the pictures of both Volts. While I continue to be in love with the concept vehicle, she hates it. In the case of a tie vote, she wins
Be well,
Mrs. Tag
LJGTVWOTR!! NPNS.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:21 pm
Sorry Lyle I didn’t have the editor enabled for post 42
Correction: Porsches
September 17th, 2008 at 2:22 pm
1) You don’t have to be “18″ to enjoy the concept. Taste/style/looks mater to a broad range of people. If they don’t like the way the car looks, they will not buy it.
2) There is no “real” volt yet. Not till they start rolling off the lines. I’ll stick with supporting the concept because its a car that I would buy.
3) This thing had better be mid-$20k range. If people see they can buy a honda or toyota and still feel like they are sticking it to the oil man, all for 19k, they’ll pass on this if its in the 40’s!
Lyle, I love the site, and I like the fact that you are trying to do polls, but you should look at running a serious poll for statistics. You can’t write “you know how I fell” just before giving the questions, or put on Lutz’s blog comments favoring one side or the other.
Suggested poll style for better stats:
How do you feel about the production car’s looks:
0(hate) 1(moderately dislike) 2(dislike) 3(like) 4(moderately like) 5(love)
How do you feel about the concept car’s looks:
0(hate) 1(moderately dislike) 2(dislike) 3(like) 4(moderately like) 5(love)
How important is style in your decision to buy a car:
0(absolutely unimportant) 1(somewhat unimportant) 2(unimportant) 3(important) 4(somewhat important) 5(absolutely important)
How important is the electric drive system in your decision to buy a car:
0(absolutely unimportant) 1(somewhat unimportant) 2(unimportant) 3(important) 4(somewhat important) 5(absolutely important)
When did you first hear about the volt: (month/date, approximate)
Did you see the production model or the concept model first: (selection)
September 17th, 2008 at 2:25 pm
FYI- The Volt is being advertised on the Yahoo finance page!
September 17th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
Lyle,
Has anyone on the production team mentioned that they found humor in the fact that the “Leaked pictures” received kinda negative reviews, but that simply by removing the engineers, the opinions improved dramatically? (g).
Be well,
Tag
LJGTVWOTR!!, NPNS
September 17th, 2008 at 2:26 pm
#20 Thom
Couldn’t have said it better. With time, E-Rev will include more edgy designs like the concept, but for now, the production version is needed to get this technology moving. And the production version is a distinctive, classy looking car!
Also, people don’t realize some of the practical limitations of the concept. By scaling, I estimate the concept’s wheelbase to be 125″ (a Suburban’s is 130″). Not a very good turning radius for this puppy.
Also, the small windows look cool, but don’t expect them to be a big hit with everyone. I recently put a deposit on a new LTZ Malibu, but when my wife drove it, she felt extremely uncomfortable. That’s because she doesn’t have great eyesight, and felt the car limited her visibility (compared to her Envoy). I don’t need a car that is continually in accident’s because my wife can’t see well through the windows. We ultimately bought a new 2009 Buick Lucerne (nice car, BTW).
So even if I liked the concept better (which I don’t), doesn’t mean it would be a vehicle that would fit in my household. I would imagine others may have this same conflict.
In all honesty, I would really like an E-Flex Lucerne!
September 17th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
Crud. hit submit before explaining:
Notice, there is no “on the fence” options, this is helpful in forming a true like/dislike relationship. It also helps prevent the “meh” vote from throwing off the stats.
No questions are negative in nature. The separation allows you to graph peoples relative opinions independent of the other options (rather than an “all or nothing” question).
You can come up with more, but these are fairly basic. Another important one would be:
Given the style of the production car, what MSRP would you pay:
-this one could be a option range, like <20,20~25, 25~30, 30~35, 35~40,40~45,45+
Also note, the extra “which did you see first” helps to differentiate the population and their other choices. I’ll guess that most people who saw the concept first and jumped on the waiting list are going for style – but they still feel the EV aspect is very important!
jtm_mypersonaltag
September 17th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
Bob Lutz talked about the importance of “design that makes an emotional connection with buyers.”
This design makes no emotional connection with me. My neighbors will think it is a Honda Civic, for the appearance of the two cars is very similar. Realistically, however, my neighbors and I will do best to look at the Volt as an intellectual exercise, as if watching major league baseball on TV, for here in NC it is unlikely we will ever even see a Volt, much less be able to buy one.
The Volt nonetheless has a revolutionary powertrain and for that reason is an important car. I hope it is successful in CA, and that everyone to whom it makes an emotional connection can get one before too long.
Actually, though, I think GM is using the car as a way of showing people that the appearance and performance of an electric car is the same as those of an ICE car, except that one plugs it in and by doing that buys less gasoline. If the prospective buyer is female and has $40K, it helps. I hope that plan works.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
I think I said it before:
I like it, I want one and I want it in RED.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
I voted production because the more I look at it, the more I like it. The concept had an immediate strong visual impact, but I’m not sure I would want to wake up next to it every morning.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
Shaft @ 21
I don’t see any depressing about the article. In my view of Tien Duong of the U.S. Department of Energy is just guessing what his view is. I’m sure Tien Duong get data just from every battery company he ask for. Tien Duong may not even do his own data test. Tien Duong may just keep his hope just as many other people about the GM battery test info as well.
-”Duong said it will take time to develop a lithium battery that can meet the Department of Energy’s goal: a plug-in electric vehicle with a 40-mile range by the year 2016.”-
GM may have got ahead of his view, only time will tell. GM is going to test Tien Duong view that he may be wrong or correct. Good for GM that going to do something about it while the other still guessing that the battery are not ready.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:38 pm
I still prefer the concept version that was the kick to buy one the soon as possible is available. The production version looks like normal cheap car, the only thing that is different is the design of the headlights.
For the Concept version I was ready to pay between $24,000.00 to $29,000.00.
For the production version I pay between $17,500.00 to $21,000.00 No more!
I was searching for the price in internet and they say that maybe come out around $40K. Is too much for the production design, in that case a prefer to buy BMW, Mercedes or Jaguar. Because if I’m capable to pay that amount, I don’t have any problem with the gas prices.
Thanks
September 17th, 2008 at 2:41 pm
The production version looks fantastic. Well done GM!
Now let me put one in my driveway already!
September 17th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
I voted for the production model, design should follow function such as low drag and adequate head room.
Off topic, HybridCars.com indicated the production model sports an eight gallon gas tank. Can anyone provide a basis for the assertion?
September 17th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
Typical gm product launch. Nothing like the concept. What a dissapointment. Looks like everything else Chevrolet, or GM for that matter, is putting out….
September 17th, 2008 at 2:48 pm
Seeing the next to each other, in that exact photo/angle, I prefer the production, by far.
The concept looks good to me from the front up until the dash area, then it just looks ugly to me.
Though if Mazda makes an E-rev of similar specs in a Mazda 6 shell, I’m sold. Sorry, volt.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:49 pm
I prefer a lack of dangling participles….:-)
Just joking. Lyle you are doing great work. Here is a poem:
Haiku for Lyle
The moment has come
A silent surge of freedom
Lyle drives his new Volt
September 17th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
I read some comments attached to the specific photographs on Flickr.com. One guy actually said the shifter was a fold down cup holder (even though the cup holders are obviously visible in the photo.) He claimed since it was electric, no shifter was needed! I have NO CLUE how he expects to go from Park to Drive to Reverse.
Anyway it was interesting to hear the car has a transmission of some type. Electric motor cars can be direct drive but with a transmission I bet the electric draw is a lot less, especially with a multi speed transmisstion, not to mention better performance.
Anybody else have thoughts on this????
September 17th, 2008 at 2:52 pm
First impression of production: letdown. They went from a stylish, bold look to a boring, ho-hum, $15K-$20k looking sedan. When you’re dropping $40K for a car, it had better look like more than the production model is.
There is an upside to this design: It’s the first production car that isn’t a fashion statement about being green. Many who don’t like the “LOOK AT ME” design of the Prius or Insight will much prefer this design.
However, it had better be cheaper than $40K. Try $30K max. The concept Volt at $40K would’ve sold, but the production Volt isn’t going to be flying off the shelves at that price.
For me, with the style and price, I’ll be saying no thanks. Even if gas prices jump a couple more dollars a gallon I’m still ahead. I’ll just buy a $30K sedan that’ll look more stylish and blow it away, and use the other $10K to buy several years worth of gas (and not have to pay higher electric bills to charge my car). Maybe the Volt 2.0 will be a better buy…
September 17th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
In the previous pictures of the production version it was very difficult to make out the overall car. Once I have seen all the different angles (without the guys in the pictures) it has become much more evident that this production version has many muscular angles as well, just not as protruding as the concept for obvious reasons. That being said, I like the production version very much. The rear end looks great and having it being a hatchback makes it all the more practical. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I personally think this car looks much better than the critics are giving it credit. At first, I too was a bit let down, but after viewing many photos I have to admit I was wrong and this car looks much better than I previously thought. I want one. My biggest concern is I will have to wait at least two more years from now. By then, it may not be as appealing to me since I will have been looking at it for two or more years. And of course, price will play a factor, especially since it will only seat four.
Hawk
September 17th, 2008 at 2:55 pm
The production version is nice looking but it looks like 90% of the other cars on the road right now. Nothing special, and if it’s nothing special $35K to 40K is a very hard sell, in fact it’s a No Sale! On top of that, it will be coming out in the 2011 model year, so now you have a $35k 2011 car that looks just like any other 2008 car. That dog won’t hunt.
I’ve suggested before, make 2 models of the Volt, one will get 40 miles on a charge and the other will get 30-35 miles. I’ll bet the farm that the concept car, with the lower miles on a charge will outsell the production model by far.
The last pole you had when it was a straight up which one do you like, only 2 choices, the concept won something like 59%. When you add a third choice you are just slanting the pole the way you want it to come out.
Make the Volt and the Volt ES (electric sport). That way GM gets both worlds and the country wins by getting off of oil.
You can’t get off oil if the car isn’t going to sell, and that car won’t sell, a 2008 boring design in 2011.
September 17th, 2008 at 2:58 pm
I think the grill is a big mistake. It is a painted or decalled grill. There is no need for a grill on this car, so why pretend to have one. I expect this think to look horrendous on cars several years after purchase. It will get scratched, blemished, etc….
September 17th, 2008 at 3:02 pm
Jim in PA @ 43 :
You sir, are dead on. Buy what you like. A car purchase is rarely a solely financial argument. It is almost always a combination of MANY emotional triggers, where the financial issues are one, and sticking it to OPEC may be another. The other big one taking on higher relevance these days is perceived reliability.
I have been consistently facinated with the financial argument logic many people use here to make Volt/Prius comparisons, 40mpc vs. 35mpc comparisons, etc… These never work or make any sense to me. Otherwise we would all be driving $13000 Hyundais and putting the rest of the money in a CD or something. And financial arguments for mpc issues have to make assumptions about driving habits that you simply can’t apply to everyone. It is a waste of time.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:04 pm
This car will sell. And it will sell well. The biggest problem now, for a mass produced vehicle, is PRICE and it ONLY SEATING FOUR, the style, quite honestly is a non issue for the masses. When is the last time you heard someone bragging about how great their bland Toyota Camry looked. Come on guys, honestly, it is not about looks, at this stage, for the masses, it will be about price, and only seating four will be a drawback for some.
Hawk
September 17th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
I read today where the absolute “styling freeze” (final final deadline for the production design) is next week for the Volt. Seeing the two side by side above, the only thing I would suggest is maybe on the front grill, use the chrome bar in the middle of the bow tie (from the concept), and blacken the grill.
And again, it doesn’t matter, because I can’t afford $40,000.
What’s really sobering is realizing the payments on that-somewhere in the range of $600 a month for 6 years. Sorry, can’t swing that.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
If someone doesn’t like the looks of the production Volt, they can always buy a Camaro with its similar flat-fronted “fist in the wind” styling.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
I’m not a fan of small cars unless they are in the sport category. But this one is unique enough to tempt me. The feeling of shoving the oil back up OPEC’s butt will be liberating! It’s our first step to stop funding the people of the middle east.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
I see the problem with Lyle’s polls. The use of them big words like “appearance” are confusin us. Try “which one looks gooder?”
September 17th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
I am disappointed that the production version is not more aggressive, but I am relieved that it does not look as bad as I feared when I saw the leaked photos with all the executives in the foreground. I will still buy one. I wish with all my heart that it was a little more sexy, though, because I will be going from a new BMW 525i (or Land Rover depending on whether it replaces my wife’s car or mine) to a Chevy (the first domestic car I have even considered purchasing in fourteen years). The leaked photos actually helped me make up my mind that I can live with the production design. My expectations were so low last week when I saw the exec photos, that I almost put a deposit on a Tesla. After seeing the photos from yesterday, however, I was so relieved that it didn’t look as bad as I thought it would that it convinced me to still buy one. Maybe GM did that on purpose. At the very least, the leaked photos must have inadvertently converted at least a few other people. How else can you explain that a majority hated the production Volt last week and now that same majority prefers it? My wife pointed out, without seeing them side by side and without any prompting from me, that the production version “does not even resemble the same car,” so I do think Chevy went a little crazy in the wind tunnel. They bastardized their own brainchild, but maybe the Volt’s 1/4 brother will stir my emotions a little more when we stop importing oil and I can watch as the Middle Eastern dictators, in the face of shrinking petro profits, are forced turn to their second largest contributor to their nations’ GDP to fund terrorism: sifting sand.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
I think the photo leak was on purpose. Lower everyones expectations in order to create more hype, and then pleasantly supprise us all with a car that looks far better than the leaked photos. Hmmmm.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:25 pm
As usual, production cars will never replicate the concept version. The concept is created by the designers/artists. The production is created by the engineers/realists. It seems that the low roof line, custom wheels and the aggresive stance are typically removed from the production vehicles. I find it somewhat deceiving, because these are what can make a plain car attractive. Maybe someday, the engineers will find a way to leave the designers finished product alone.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:32 pm
I can barely stand to look at the concept any more. Give me the production Volt in silver or Electric Blue and throw some 18s or 20s (though the wheels on it already are very sharp) on it and I’m ready to go electric. I would pick this over any parallel hybrid easily, but that’s not the case, this is an affordable electric car with gas/E85 range extender, so this is an absolute must-have. I’m a 23-year-old computer technician and college student that happens to also be black, to me this car has sex appeal and OMG did I mention it’s electric?!
September 17th, 2008 at 3:39 pm
I don’t know what is going on, but I had posted a comment (around #43 or so). It showed up with another one from someone else below it. But now it is suddenly gone. Lyle, is someone going through and deleting comments completely? I did not say anything bad. I just praised the Volt’s look, etc. So, anyone else losing comments posted on the site?
September 17th, 2008 at 3:40 pm
Like any concept it was unrealistic to think the body style would not change. I too loved the concept car but knew that between wind tunnel test and DOT requirements it would not make it to production in that form. I am content with the new body, not as aggressive and sporty as I would like but then again it is not a sports car. I will purchase one as soon as it is available and be on the beginning of a new era in car history.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
Benson says, “And again, it doesn’t matter, because I can’t afford $40,000.
What’s really sobering is realizing the payments on that-somewhere in the range of $600 a month for 6 years. Sorry, can’t swing that.”
Let’s play a little math here. For a five year loan, at a decent interest rate for 35k would be slightly less than 700 per month with no money down. I would suspect that after any tax incentives this car will fall between 30k and 35k to purchase. At 30k over five years your payment would be 600 per month. Lets take the middle ground and say you can get a Volt for 650 per month.
You decide that is too much and you purchase a 25k car instead. Your payment is now 500 per month financed for five years. Assume you drive 15k per year at 4 dollars a gallon at an average of 25mpg. You would spend $2400 per year on gas or 200 per month.
500 car payment + 200 for gas=700 per month.
That is assuming gas is at 4 bucks. Costs about the same as a Volt wouldn’t you think because your gas bill for the Volt would be virtually non existent for most people.
Hawk
September 17th, 2008 at 3:43 pm
68 Steve….. You say, “I think the grill is a big mistake…..”
The “techno-weenie” part of me agrees with you. The fake Volt grill is a little like the 10,000 pounds of white paint we used to cover up the rusty external tank on the first Shuttles —it has no purpose whatsoever (except cosmetic).
And the “bad boy” part of me (I LOVED my charcoal metallic IROC Z28 Camaro) hates to give up the aggressive style of the concept Volt.
However, I fully recognize that the vast majority of car buyers are NOT at all interested in aggressive styling but ARE VERY interested in the idea of driving most daily trips without using a drop a gas. So, unless & until I can persuade GM to design an E-REV car inspired by, say, the Lamborghini Gallardo in the link below, I’ll be happy to have the handsomely-styled production Volt, closed grill & all, parked beside my 2010 plug-in Saturn VUE (needed for hauling my boat, family & lots of stuff around from one water body to another)*.
http://gtcarlot.com/cars/?id=47054
*It’s a hard life, but somebody has to live it!
September 17th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
This is it?
A half baked Civic?
What was the point of the parading around the prototype in all those ads?
Major disappointment.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
the concept is by far the better looking model. I didnt get my hopes up any way. I love GM but loath the way they always take a concept car get you all hyped up over it the the final product is nothing like what you enjoyed from the concept. The only car that looks somewhat like it’s origonal concept is the camaro. Who knows though. Theres still time for that to change too. To all at GM that make decisions, stop redrawing every thing that comes off your artists computer/ sketch pads. The Volt looked like a cross between a camaro & a malibu. It was really nice. It made me want it even more, now instead of looking good while saving gas, I will have to blend right in with the fits, priuses and all the other foriegn garbage. Thanks again GM, Not. Whats next a four cyl vette.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:49 pm
#82 Nasaman
You say “It’s a hard life, but somebody has to live it!”
I guess it is if you are able to do all that and drive a car like the Lamborghini in the link. That is one cool looking car. Just wait to see what the Volt convertible is going to look like. You’ll want one of those too. Then you will really be living the “Life of Riley”.
September 17th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
I suggested this in another thread, and it might have been taken the wrong way — if it’s a non-functional, decorative item, treat the grill like a decal or other ornament, and have more than one design. Offer different designs with different paint jobs, or just make them buyer-selectable. It wouldn’t require any sheet metal or assembly-technique changes; and has the additional appeal of not ever having been done before, on a car which itself has never been done before.
Yes, the Volt is a promising first step, but down a long road before Oil is noticeably displaced. Furthermore, in the near-term (following the “Ike spike”), the price of gas is coming down. Sorry, Volt fans. Still, by 2011, it will likely be topping the worst 2008 price, again. We do have to start down the long road, sometime.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:07 pm
#79 N Riley
I don’t know what is going on, but I had posted a comment (around #43 or so). It showed up with another one from someone else below it. But now it is suddenly gone. Lyle, is someone going through and deleting comments completely? I did not say anything bad. I just praised the Volt’s look, etc. So, anyone else losing comments posted on the site?
———-
I’m still getting through unfiltered, so I doubt there is anyone intentionally sabatoging you, hehe. Probably just a glitch of some kind…alot of traffic here lately.
(=
September 17th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
To the complainers that keep saying that the Volt shouldn’t have a grill.
in 1925, the Franklin Motor company “…redesigned their air-cooled car to look like conventional cars sporting a massive nickel-plated “dummy radiator” which served as an air intake…”
-http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franklin_(car)
This was done at the request of the dealers because people though the car looked “funny” without a big chrome radiator on the front, and sales were falling.
One does wonder if the same reasoning went through the minds of the Volt team when they added the faux-grill.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:25 pm
To the complainers that keep saying that the Volt shouldn’t have a grill.
in 1925, the Franklin Motor company “…redesigned their air-cooled car to look like conventional cars sporting a massive nickel-plated “dummy radiator” which served as an air intake…”
-http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Franklin_(car)
This was done at the request of the dealers because people thought the car looked “funny” without a big chrome radiator on the front, and sales were falling.
One does wonder if the same reasoning went through the minds of the Volt team when they added the faux-grill.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:30 pm
yea my post went south as well. I hope the guys programming the volt to determine where I’m going and what I’m doing are not the same guys who set up this website.
I can’t be bothered to re-type my post. This car is an over-priced, underperforming, ugly turd and by 2010 any scrap of “cutting edge” left (assuming there was any in the first place) will be gone.
At this point, I am more confident that the other dozen or so companies set to release new EVs by 2010 will reach their goal that I am in GM getting there without delays. GM just lets us down over and over again.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:33 pm
Aside from the aerodynamic changes – there are two features in the production version which I believe are improvements over the concept version:
[1] improved visibility for the driver through the front, side and rear windows, and
[2] the rear doors appear to be longer and the rear cabin is higher – which will help with taller people sitting in the back, or for putting kids in booster seats, etc.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:34 pm
68 I agree
Tradition dies hard. The car does not need a gril so remove it.
If you want this to be space age and a 2010 car then the gril is not needed.
To just have one for the sake of it and combine the lights tougher in a tastefull fashion.
Here is a car designed a long time ago
http://jalopnik.com/5048196/commenter-of-the-day-drag-coefficient-edition
without computers that acheived .19
So I think GM should have been more creative in the approach. This car had no front end but looks like it ducted the air to the sides or below the car.
The design is nice but I am worried too that in 3 years someone will try to beat this design.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:35 pm
A four door coupe like the concept would have been cool but I think the production Volt fits its purpose.
It shares it’s platform with the Cruz so it has the look of 4-door economy sedan but it is a very good looking four-door econo-sedan. I really like how the wheels are flush with the body and the tires filll the fenders.
Someone needs to do a side by side pic of the Prius, Insight, and Volt just to show how pretty the Volt really is.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:37 pm
My only gripe with the production is the color and the multi tone interior. Hope they have a leather package.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:38 pm
#79 N Riley
I also posted a comment that should have been #43 or so. It too, did not post.
Fortunately, I had saved the text, and it is now posted as #52.
My post at #43 was actually submitted after the first try to post what is now #52.
Don’t know what happened, but I had similar problems as you at about the same time.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:42 pm
Look at the Chevrolet Prius, how quaint. Who is anyone kidding, cool looking is ALWAYS better than fugly. Are you trying to tell me someone would buy a Vega that performes like a Corvette VS buying a Corvette? Please…..WAY to blow it GM! How much additional money did you spend on the wind tunnel testing to figure out the new style? How many miles a charge is the difference. I can honestly say with this design I find no reason to pick a Volt. The Honda and Chevroltet look just like a Prius. Who cares now
September 17th, 2008 at 4:42 pm
I have to say there are some elements of the concept version I like better, and some elements of the production version I like better. The concept had a great dash to axle ratio (long hood) and the roof looks chopped. It also had crazy looking doors, a boxy (old) looking front end, and rear wheels that seem to stick out way too far. The production model is much more integrated and sleek. Unfortunately, the roofline looks more like a Prius than a custom car and the proportions are obviously front wheel drive. Anyone with a clue about cars should realize the concept version could and would not translate to production. Two inch tall mirrors, half glass doors, and a 100K interior? That is obviously all show car, but keep on criticizing GM. Despite many comments to the contrary, I think GM has been very true to most of it’s concepts lately. The SSR, CTS coupe, and Camaro have bee spot on. You would be hard pressed to tell the difference. I also think pictures don’t quite do the production Volt justice. It really doesn’t look like a ‘conventional car’ in person. Call it ugly if you like, but it certainly won’t be confused with a Cobalt, Camry, Civic, or any other car. I think GM did a great job overall, especially considering that performance is by far more important than styling with this car. I didn’t like the white interior trim at first, but I am warming up to it. I still hope they offer other finishes. Same with the front grille.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:55 pm
I liked the concept but I like the production as well. Now that the latter is fully revealed I like them equally. One is more practical and maintstream while being extremely well designed for the application and the other much more agressive. All in all, the plug and 40 miles AER matter a lot more to me and the rest is gravy making the $37,000 or so price tag easier to swallow.
I was of the opinion that they should just offer a solid color in place of the feaux grill, but upon further review I think it should stay. It may or may not have more appeal without the grill but you would always have trouble with bugs, scratches and dings without it. The grill will hide a lot of these front end innevitabilities.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:56 pm
The more important question is price. You need to have the Volt come in at under 30k. If 40k, the constraints on market will be game changing.
September 17th, 2008 at 4:57 pm
I like the concept car better but the production one looks good. I’ll take two please.
September 17th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
I voted for the concept Volt. Making this game changer truly unique would have been cool. However, I like the production much more than I anticipated and can’t wait to own this car. I also understand the changes had to take place and are ultimately good for the car. By the way… Lutz promised long ago that the production version would be recognizable as the Volt (i.e., the concept version). It is (I believe he was wearing his pink tie that day).
September 17th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
I was never that attracted to the concept car, and now I’m moderately attracted to the production prototype. Maybe some different colors will turn me on more.
But then again, GM really shouldn’t listen to me. Because I think the Mitsubishi i-EV Sport (iMIEV Sport) concept car looks cool. And it looks like a VW Bug on LSD!
I’m sure the production version has been secretly consumer-tested with whatever focus groups they normally use. I’d guess that the typical GM buyer that they are targeting has either never seen the Volt concept car, or can’t remember what it looks like. Two years from now, the Volt concept car will be a distant memory among GM’s typical potential Volt buyer.
When it actually comes time to SELL volts, the whole issue of which looks better to bloggers on this enthusiast site will be a distant memory by then.
September 17th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
special color for Michael as promised- Sunburst Orange II Metallic:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bemova/2865714533/sizes/l/in/set-72157607025317063/
and for everybody who wants to see more colors:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bemova/sets/72157607025317063/
click on “all sizes” to see higher resolution picture.
September 17th, 2008 at 5:12 pm
Statik, I also posted a comment here which disappeared. Today is the first time I’ve seen that happen. It was one of my good ones too!
September 17th, 2008 at 5:24 pm
1) I fell in love with the concept
2) I was dissapointed by the fuzzy leaked pics.
3) I saw the Production version and thought, not too bad.
4) Every time I look at the Production model it looks better.
5) The concept is starting to look kind of silly.
6) I’ll take a Production Model in Silver, with black dash.
September 17th, 2008 at 5:27 pm
I found this on the web:
http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/17/houses-passes-bill-with-5k-volt-tax-credit-mandatory-alternati
September 17th, 2008 at 5:33 pm
A lot of you negative people on this blog think that this is it for GM…Once the loans get approved and GM can get back on their feet there will be more plug in hybrids built by GM. I could see an SUV or an all electric city version coming out in the early part of the next decade as well. This car is the first to come of the plug in hybrids…
September 17th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
Thank you for the colors. I will take mine in black. NPNS
September 17th, 2008 at 5:51 pm
Take a look at a real live photo of the volt and then vote:
http://www.autobloggreen.com/photos/2011-chevrolet-volt-1/1039683/full/
or
http://www.autobloggreen.com/photos/2011-chevrolet-volt-1/1039676/full/
Awesome!
September 17th, 2008 at 5:58 pm
I voted for the cocept because I prefer cool, aggressive looking cars that turn heads. That’s just my personal taste so I guess that makes me one of the “posers” referred to in some of the other blogs here.
The production version of the Volt is NOT going to turn any heads…you’re delusional if you think otherwise. And I was hoping that it would be a head-turner not just for me but for the success of the vehicle and to hopefully eliminate the “golf cart” stigma that still exists in most of the public’s mind regarding EVs. As much as we’d like to think otherwise we EV fans don’t represent the real world…I don’t know anyone who’s heard (or remembers hearing) of the Tesla Roadster, AC Propulsion, or the Volt from any other source but me.
The point is I, and probably others, would have wanted the concept regardless of the technology under the hood. The same can’t be said for the production model especially with the added cost.
All that said, I am relieved that the poll shows most people preferring the production version as I am hoping with all my heart for the Volt and it’s technology to succeed.
And of course, I still want one…
September 17th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
will this come standard with photoshop, studio lights and gallons of armor all to make it look like this in my driveway. OK, i get that some compromises have to be made, but if GM offers all sorts of options on the vehicle, how about one with a smaller battery and lower price tag. You can upgrade at any time? In my novice (very) opinion, the game changer is that the car is actually electric. I don’t get the desire for limiting distance for a higher price tag, as so many greenies are lobbying for. Get an electric car in every driveway first, then worry about how much of it is fuel vs battery, i say.
peace.
DLO
September 17th, 2008 at 6:08 pm
#107 Looks are important to sales. The first 10K are virtually pre-purchased. After that it will not be automatic that every Volt GM rolls out there will sell, fake grill and all. There are only so many people with green hair who have to have an iPod console (smile). Realistically, when the novelty is gone, they may be an expensive small car just sitting there on the dealer’s lot. After all, people will have choices.
September 17th, 2008 at 6:09 pm
P.S. I agree with Nightowl; i’m glad the volt fans here like the production version better. It won’t matter what I think, I can only afford one. We need lots of these on the road to make the difference (in imported oil/cars).
September 17th, 2008 at 6:13 pm
http://www.dailytech.com/Carbon+Breakthrough+Promises+Better+Solar+Wind+Storage/article12984.htm
Take Care
Arch
September 17th, 2008 at 6:13 pm
#111 dio. Yes, each production Volt when purchased will come with three large spotlights along with cherry pickers to hold them above the Volt, so that it can look like its now “real” pictures, with lots of reflections, light spots, and angles emphasezed. These spotlights also will keep it from turning back into a pumpkin shaped car like the one shown with the executives.
Important note: Please teach three family members to drive the three cherry pickers along beside your Volt at all times, so that it looks like the “real” production photos at every stoplight. (smile)
September 17th, 2008 at 6:18 pm
111 dio:
The concept version had all the pretty lighting to make it look perfect as well–not just the production version’s official photos.
September 17th, 2008 at 6:20 pm
I love sports cars – but instead of remaking the concept volt – I would love this drivetrain in the new Camaro
Production Volt – 4 door
Concept Volt (Camaro) – 2 Door
September 17th, 2008 at 6:20 pm
OK, OK…..enough of the Concept Volt vs Production Volt polls.
I’ve voted again for the Production Volt.
Can we move on and discuss important technical details of the car ?
Lyle, can you PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, take down the image of the Concept Volt at the top of the page and replace it with the Production Volt ? It’s continued presence there seems to keep fanning the flames of “Form vs Function”.
Why do we need to keep beating this dead horse ?
THE WAR IS OVER !
FUNCTION WON.
GET OVER IT.
September 17th, 2008 at 6:22 pm
You guys may not live in Texas, but the production car looks like a sauna. Who thought that putting a window all the way across the top was a good idea? You either have the windows rolled down (lose the aerodynamics) or you turn on an air conditioner (lose MPG).
September 17th, 2008 at 6:23 pm
Mom always said, “pretty is as pretty DOES” —or was that Forrest Gump?!? Anyway, the techno-weenie in me thinks the production Volt does a few “pretty” slick things. For example, I read that there’s a button on the center console for either “Econ” or “Sport” mode* and that Bob Lutz said (in a pow-wow with journalists following the main event)…..
“With the Volt, you never have to worry you use the full 40 (mile range), the worst thing that happens is the gasoline engine comes on, and the car will know how far you are from home, and it will only run the gas engine long enough to give you enough charge to get you home where you can actually plug it into the wall outlet. So the car will be smart enough to know where its home base is.”
These gems are from Jalopnik.com at….
http://jalopnik.com/5050833/gms-lutz-chevy-volt-will-use-gps-to-determine-distance-from-home-adjust-engine-accordingly
*(However, I still don’t have a clue what the “green leaf” button on the console does)
September 17th, 2008 at 6:23 pm
#118 Exp_EngTech
The production volt is now in the header, you may need to delete your browser cache or something.
#119 Doug
I think Lyle said the roof was actually just painted black, Doesn’t sound a whole lot better, but apparently it isn’t even glass (might be the photoshop/lighting/amor all).
#120 nasaman
The green leaf activates the Mr. Fusion module in the rear circa 1985 (Back to the Future) : )
September 17th, 2008 at 6:36 pm
Apparently, the Volt will “know how far you are from home” using what we’re assuming is an on-board GPS system. The plug-in electric extended range hybrid’s computer will then use that distance, along with route information, to determine how long the car needs to run the gas engine to charge the on-board battery pack, allowing the vehicle to truly maximize fuel economy.
http://garfwod.250free.com/Photos/Volt-Halo.jpg
http://jalopnik.com/5050833/gms-lutz-chevy-volt-will-use-gps-to-determine-distance-from-home-adjust-engine-accordingly
September 17th, 2008 at 6:41 pm
#118 Exp_EngTech says,
THE WAR IS OVER !
FUNCTION WON.
GET OVER IT.
———–
(Heavy sigh), I did get over it. But it was real painful.
September 17th, 2008 at 6:48 pm
I’ll take one of each…!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 17th, 2008 at 7:00 pm
On a slightly cheering note,
For the first time I told one of my children about the Volt.
After she absorbed the concepts she decided $40,000 US was acceptable as the first of its type.
Then she decided to buy an old Astra until the Volt was available.
Strange logic ….
But it wasnt allowed to look like a geek car….I think GM has got it right.
September 17th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
The production Volt looks nice. Not much of the concept car left, that’s life. Thanks for letting the cat out of the bag, GM.
The A123 IPO still holding up battery news. Super capacitors, yes, no???
Nancy Pelosi, we luv you. LOL
September 17th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
The prod. model looks good to me. What I liked about the concept car was the wheels and the back flared fenders.
The prod. model looks a lot like my 2006 Jetta diesel which is a very nice car.
The Volt however is our future to get us of the damned oil!.
Even here in Canada we are oil independent but we are paying world price for oil, why?? Even when the oil company’s get to exploit our resourses they have to rip of the local citizens.
So lets get the ——- Volt wheels on the ground spinning.
Go GM, go Volt!
September 17th, 2008 at 7:47 pm
#118 The concept volt is gone from the top of the page, and has been for a while. check again.
September 17th, 2008 at 8:02 pm
I love the production model. The concept was a dream, the production is reality for the history books. I want to drive a piece of history. I want my grandkids to tell their kids about Grandpa and how he drove the first model VOLT.
September 17th, 2008 at 8:05 pm
I am one of the early “gm-volt.com”-e. I was attracted to this sight precisely because the Volt concept. The shaping and the start of the development of the “silver bullet” that will slay our “OPEC” and related enemies. The production versionr totally fulfills the promise of this car that I first found at the Chicago Auto Show in the winter of 2007. This is the first truly transitional vehicle from the ICE of the 20th century to transportation of the future. The range extender (ICE) is key to that concept. In the next 20 years will have the fully electric vehicles equivalent in range extension to our current ICE cars. The Volt is the perfect transitional vehicle for that purpose and will allow the development of advanced battery and/or other energy sources with the expected cost reduction to make these automobile cost competitive with ICE systems.
Congrats GM for keeping the promise. May you be able to solve your looming financial problems. This car will be great for our country.
September 17th, 2008 at 8:10 pm
More choices! More Electric cars! It’s all good.
September 17th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
I love the production version now that is can clearly be seen in proper photographs. I mean the lines are flowing and attractive. It even has a nice agressive stance as in hardle no fender gap that most production cars have stock, which is amazing for people that already lower their cars for looks, cause it comes this way for the aerodynamics. I love the stylng cue of making the roof and window look as one by having the black roof, genious. Plus the fact that multiple colors and many options will be available makes it a hands down winner.
Let along being able to drive 90% of our usual time using NO gasoline.
Screwing OPEC in style. This car will be the savior of GM, and my return to buying an American car.
Those narrow minded childern that complain about not looking like the prototype haven’t followed automotive trends in like, forever. As the concept and the production NEVER look exactly the same. They only borrow design cues that people like, and build upon that. As for the Volt they did an excellent job while still maintain the drag coeffeciency needed to give more EV range.
Remember how HORRIBLE the production Volt interior was?
Anyways, the few narrow minded that won’t buy the Volt makes me only move up the waiting list.
The demand will be so high, I’m sure i will not even be able to grab one till 2012 anyways. When people are going months without buying gasoling and you’re paying $80-$100 a week, you’ll change your tune real quick.
I see the resale value for regular ICE vehicles tanking after 2011 as everyone will want a EREV once the dim bulb general public catches on.
September 17th, 2008 at 8:16 pm
The Volt will have built-in GPS vehicle tracking that will monitor and record your driving pattern at ALL times. The Volt cannot depend on owner feedback because your typical Volt owner will NOT be college material, if you know what i mean. This car is being marketed for the masses, meaning it must be idiot proof. GM needs to record every move that every Volt takes to optimize performance, this is why the internal memory requirements was so high for the 1st gen Volts during our initial design phase. This car will be the most tracked vehicle in automotive history, which is a very good thing. I expect the 2nd gen Volts to be much more fuel efficient due to data mining techniques that will be applied to 1st gen models.
September 17th, 2008 at 8:28 pm
another “fixed” poll…. like asking “have you stopped beating your wife”… where is the “none of the above” choice?????????????????????
September 17th, 2008 at 8:43 pm
This is off the subject a bit, but I just googled 95th percentile male, which is what Lutz says GM is building the Volt to accomodate. It appears to be the industry standard, in conjunction w the 5th percentile female. The surprising thing is that the 95th percentile male is assumed to be just 6′2″! That is slightly disappointing, because I really think that more than 1 guy in 20 is over 6′2′, and I am the shorty in a lot of places and I am 6′4″, so all those guys are going to be marginal for the first EREV GM produces. I can and will shoehorn myself in, but if you are 6′6″ or more it might get problematic.
That minor irritant aside, just build the thing! I am thinking 2 cents a mile on american produced electricity sounds pretty good!
http://www.cdc.gov/NIOSH/pot_anth.html
September 17th, 2008 at 8:53 pm
#134 Joe says “Those narrow minded childern that complain about not looking like the prototype haven’t followed automotive trends in like, forever.”
________________________________________
What good is achieved by calling 40% of the people here “narrow minded children”? Everyone here liked the concept. No one will get one. In these central respects everyone is the same.
These polls have really become divisive.
To what constructive end?
September 17th, 2008 at 9:27 pm
Exp_EngTech Says: THE WAR IS OVER !
FUNCTION WON.
GET OVER IT.
—————————————————–
Got it. The concept Volt is history – toast – fish food – dead – buried – gone. No more real than Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy, or the Easter Bunny.
So basically, we’re stuck with whatever Bob gives us. Why not make the best of it, and pretend it’s the greatest thing on four wheels ? Maybe if we say enough nice things about the Volt, and insult other posters who like the concept Volt, Bob will sell it to us sooner. OK – I believe this sums up what everyone has been saying.
————————————————————————
Maybe Lyle needs to make up a new Volt waiting list. The old waiting list for established the there was no “production” Volt, and everyone was talking about how great the Volt (prototype, but it was just called the “Volt” back then) was. Funny, I don’t remember #134 Joe, or anyone saying “The Volt’s too sexy, I refuse to buy it” back then. With a new waiting list, there would be no doubt who wants the production Volt, and who doesn’t. Once the concept is dead and buried forever, I guess it’s back to fighting over hydrogen again.
——————————————————————–
It doesn’t matter to me – I cannot register the Volt in my state, because it has no place for a front license plate, which is required in my state by law. I throughly examined the front end of the production Volt, and there is NO place to attach a front plate. No front plate, no title, equals NO VOLT. And this applies to you, if your state or country demands a front license plate. (Maybe if GM removed that fake grill, there would be enough room for a license plate).
September 17th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Personally, I’d drive a car that looked like a giant turd as long as it didn’t use any gas and got me from point A to point B in a reliable, inexpensive fashion. If you’re worried about the looks of your car, then buy a hot rod and drive it around to impress people….if that’s what makes you happy. Between looking good and getting there, I’d always pick getting there…
I’ll stick to my ‘91 Geo Metro that looks like Swiss cheese, but still gets 50 mpg — at least until someone comes out with something that makes better economic sense.
September 17th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
Poorly Framed??? Poorly angled???
My 1973 Type LT Camaro looked kick’n from any angle, at anytime of day and in any weather…to me, what you see is what you get!!
Initially I was disappointed in the unveiling, but the stright on view of the grill really sold me again…I have come to love the production version.
Let’s get goin pard’na…we ain’t got all day…bring it on!
Johnnie
September 17th, 2008 at 9:37 pm
My wife was not as impressed with the Volt as I am. Only because it only carries 4 passengers, not 5. She likes the ability to carry more than two grandchildren at one time. But, like I told her, that is the reason we have a Honda Odyssey. Take that, wife.
September 17th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
Front license plates will just be bolted to the plastic equivalent of a board and slapped on the front. That’s what BMW did to my 55,000 sports car. Did wonders for its looks.
Wonder how a board in front effects aerodynamics? Bet the boneheads at GM didn’t think of that one.
September 17th, 2008 at 9:43 pm
Yeah all of you telling me to quit complaining about the ugly ass production model should take into account a couple of facts as I see them. I won’t pay 40k for a ugly small car. I can afford to pay 40k for a car. Being off foreign oil is important but it comes in at a distant second to making a bad investment in a vehicle that I don’t see holding value. The tech is unproven but I was willing to take a leap because of the appearance. I felt that the appearance would allow the vehicle to hold some value. That reason is now gone.
September 17th, 2008 at 9:46 pm
Well, I am shocked at the response to the Volt. Not from the people here but from the people I talked to at work. Most didn’t follow the concept so they don’t make that comparison.
They are excited! They think it looks great and are really interested in getting one. The 40 miles EV only seems to be a huge draw.
My guess is the number of people that are now familiar with the Volt far exceeds the members here and we are now a minority in the bigger picture.
Sweet!
September 17th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
Way to go GM,, dangle a carrot in front of us and then hit us in the head with an apple. Why even show us a concept car and then come out with the Malibu 11. Why not just say Malibu and let it go at that. I loved the concept car and would gladly pay GM for one of them. Hey GM, yes I said I would gladly pay for one of the concept cars.
September 17th, 2008 at 10:03 pm
NO PLUG NO SALE !!!
and I’m #287 on the list.
NO PLUG NO SALE !!!!!!!!
September 17th, 2008 at 10:20 pm
Concept is way better and I don’t know if I’m going to shell out the cash for the production version enough said. The concept is much better ” If the ride is fly people will buy” The production version is not nice and looks like a prius and for the price I’ll go and buy one of those. Sell the concept version and I’ll put money down today!!!!
September 17th, 2008 at 10:25 pm
Brad Pittman, I’m glad you don’t like the production Volt. More Volts for me!
Considering GM had to reshape the car (or be grilled mercilessly for not meeting their performance goals), I think they did a hell of a job. The more I see the two side by side, the more the original stretched and chopped concept looks dated. To each his own.
September 17th, 2008 at 10:34 pm
I think the Chevy Volt is the perfect design aerodynamically for the first electric car of mass production and it will have broader appeal than the hot rod looking concept which will help GM out on there balance sheet. And since we all want GM to continue the production Volt makes perfect sense.
Sure I liked the bigger wheels and fenders on the concept but I know you can’t always have everything in life. 3 cheers for GM.
I was wondering if it will come in a convertible in a few years ?
September 17th, 2008 at 10:45 pm
Shaft #21
“One of the pictures clearly shows an ECONO/SPRT switch. Lyle, please find out what this does! (Perhaps it’s the “I’m going up Pike’s Peak later today” switch?”
*** *** ***
I looked carefully over the pictures on this site and I’m not seeing this. I suggested an economy/performance switch many months ago on this site so I was interested which pic you saw this in.
September 17th, 2008 at 10:49 pm
It’s been over 100 posts, so it needs to be repeated….
LJGTVWOTR!! NPNS!
There, that’s better.
Be well,
Tag
PS Saw a nice quote from Maximum Bob that they are already well along on the Volt V 2.0 and started on V 3.0.
Sweet.
September 17th, 2008 at 10:58 pm
I far prefer the pre-production model to the concept prototype.
Not only do I prefer it aesthetically, It’s more what will sell to the demographic that can afford it anyways.
Most (certainly not all) of the cry-babies talkin’ smack are kiddie-car buyers that wouldn’t really be in the market for a new car at the anticipated price point anyways (and projected long before we even reached this juncture)
Many had no real intention of purchasing a Volt, else they risk ridicule in the high school parking lot. Guess they’ll have to take the short bus to school.
JMO
WOT
September 17th, 2008 at 11:01 pm
Lutz was just on “The Colbert Report” speaking about Volt.
His comment about acceleration being “adequate” seemed to imply yet another divergence from the original concept. And his “will never use a drop of fuel” comment was in direct conflict with the other information we’ve been presented. The engine will be required for warm-up in the winter and it will also need to run from time to time for routine upkeep.
I’ll sure be glad when things finally settle down and facts become clear.
September 17th, 2008 at 11:04 pm
#148 Paul R
I was wondering if anyone else thought the concept was looking dated of it it was just me.
September 17th, 2008 at 11:06 pm
Grizzly@150:
Left side, middle:
http://www.autoblog.com/photos/production-chevy-volt-interior/1039963/
September 17th, 2008 at 11:12 pm
#105 Zita –
I’ve been working “in the field” all day today, and didn’t get a chance
to check out this thread until now. Thanks for providing the many
extra color choices. I do think the one you did for me was striking.
It does look like copper, and that obviously fits the Volt.
Everyone else, if you haven’t done so, look at the 15 color choices
that Zita provided. I’m sure you will find your favorite there.
Here’s the link again:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/bemova/sets/72157607025317063/
LJGTVWOTR!! NPNS!
September 17th, 2008 at 11:23 pm
I too voted for the concept, but as time rolls on I find the production
version more appealing.
Of course, I have a 2008 Malibu, so I guess the Volt design shouldn’t be
to much of a shock. The Malibu is leased until 2011 which I had hoped
would be the time I could buy a Volt. It has to be less than 40K for me.
30K and no gas works…
September 17th, 2008 at 11:24 pm
dodahman #90
“One does wonder if the same reasoning went through the minds of the Volt team when they added the faux-grill.”
*** *** ***
There were actually several recently successful cars that didn’t have front grills. One was the 1986-95 Ford Taurus and another was a few generations of Ford Escort , all very good sellers, so I don’t necessarily think that’s an issue today. I have stated many times on this site that I’m not a fan of the “chicken wire” grill on the louvers.
September 17th, 2008 at 11:27 pm
Love the Colour Choices!
Red Wine!!! Yes!!!!
September 17th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
Shaft #155
Thanks, I see it now. Funny how I looked through those pictures earlier and was looking for it on the LCD screen, where I saw an “econ” in the climate control section, which is obviously not what you were talking about.
September 18th, 2008 at 12:49 am
I don’t know about the production version. I saw a base model cobalt on the road today and could only think that it looks like a marriage between that and a prius. I’ll still probably get one if there are any to be had, but I was definitely much happier with the sporty look of the concept.
September 18th, 2008 at 1:01 am
Like the Burgandy color!
September 18th, 2008 at 2:42 am
Nice job GM, too bad you had the technology to do this since the mid 90’s with the EV 1, it only took you 12 years to put something else out when the outcry for an alternate fuel vehicle was too loud to ignore. Funny though, you’ve had 12 years to develop that technology and now your getting the 1/2 the millage on your “a new improved” lithium ion batteries as you did the the original NiMH batteries? Sure the car is lighter, you added 4 doors, and can now get up to 120 mph. But who cares unless your driving it on the Autoban. Looks like most of the work was going into making it look a lot sleeker and family friendly than efficient.
September 18th, 2008 at 3:36 am
Concept car styling for teenagers or Agent 007. Production is more or less finished O.K and looks pritty good.
September 18th, 2008 at 5:02 am
I would buy either the concept design or the announced production design. The important thing is to make a strong and clear statement that this time the electric car is here to stay. Also, I am one of the 75% of drivers who drives less than 40 miles/day, so I don’t expect to fill up the gas tank more than once per year!
September 18th, 2008 at 5:04 am
Re: the interior pics at autoblog
I thought GM stated no electric windows but I see that’s not true.
Programmable charging!
Still… 3+ years for most of us.
September 18th, 2008 at 6:07 am
Somewhat off topic, but I’ve been racking my brain as to what GM may be doing in response to Lutz’ remark on 9/16 during his chat session when he said, “The Volt uses a ‘top secret’ transmission that other manufacturers have never even thought of.”
First, remember that GM’s electric drive train guys —thanks to the EV-1 and its several predecessors as well as the fuel cell “Drive Away” SUVs— arguably have the most experience with electric drive trains of any major automaker. Second, any electric car must employ a large gear reduction ratio to match the motor rpm range to the MUCH lower wheel rpm range needed. Third, it is well known that an electric motor’s windings can be designed to allow switching during operation that achieves extremely high torque at lower rpms.
I think there’s a good chance the Volt MIGHT employ accelerator-position & speed-controlled sensing to temporarily multiply motor torque (by instantaneously re-configuring motor windings). In other words, if rapid acceleration is needed for fast 0-60 times (as when in “Sport” mode) or for passing at highway speeds, the drive motor windings can switched to provide higher torque then instantly re-optimized for cruising and/or efficient operation at normal highway speeds when the accelerator is returned to a more normal position.
Pure speculation, but I believe it’s technically feasible to shift into “low”, “sport mode”, “passing gear”, etc, all accomplished electrically without use of a mechanical gearbox. Could this be Bob Lutz’ “top secret”? *
* If so, the shifter’s “M” position shown could enable a button on the shifter’s left side or front that controls whether the car is in Low, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, etc” —very similar to my 2008 Saturn Vue’s “M” position. I sure hope they’re doing something like this!
September 18th, 2008 at 6:21 am
Check out Bob Lutz on the Colbert Report last night. Poor guy never knew what hit him. His PR people did not do their job. The more awkward parts of the interview do not appear in this clip.
http://jalopnik.com/5051513/on-colbert-report-bob-lutz-claims-chevy-volt-will-get-you-laid.
September 18th, 2008 at 6:28 am
I voted for the concept, but the production version looks good, actually more like a car I would end up buying. If someone ahead of me on the wait list decides not to buy because of the way it looks, please let me know — I’ll take your spot! And keep my own!! Dave
September 18th, 2008 at 6:57 am
The concept ‘electric comaro and Covette love child’ was cool and ugly.
The producrtion version is most certainly civilized, and I am sure it will do quite well.
September 18th, 2008 at 6:58 am
Nasaman #167
Thanks for the speculation.
I had a chat last January with the “Volvo C30 Recharge Concept” people who said me something like this about the accelerator pedal.
They are going a little further by saying they were investigating ways to drive the car with only one pedal. I made them repeat and they said they could get rid of the brake pedal and of the shifter, just a button for Reverse, and that emergency braking was quite possible.
Just wait and see.
JC
September 18th, 2008 at 7:17 am
#168 MarkWI
Lutz on Colbert was ‘interesting’ I like the part where Colbert NAILS him on global warming, hehe.
“Is it sexy, will it get me laid?”-Colbert
“I think so”
Then he classes the women who are interested in a Volt, “Alot of nice, no makeup environmentalists.” Priceless.
——–
Here is the whole segment, on youtube…for now. Get it while you can, Comedy Network patrols YouTube ALOT to pull these:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVtfpYgoLcc
September 18th, 2008 at 7:23 am
#167 nasaman on a special high-performance transmission
Your comments are interesting, but recall the comment from Lutz (as provided by John1701a at #153)
“His comment about acceleration being “adequate” seemed to imply yet another divergence from the original concept. ”
It seems to me that there has been a change in the outlook in the Volt program. The car with the aggressive features and performance is gone. The goal now is a car that is average in appearance, and average in performance, as compared to the Honda Civic Hybrid, yet uses less gas. If accomplished, it will be a notable achievement, even though not so exciting. It will appeal to some people.
But I’m very doubtful about any special transmission, at least on this model.
September 18th, 2008 at 7:39 am
You should conduct the only poll that really matters – which looks better, the Volt or the Prius?
September 18th, 2008 at 7:40 am
I have photovoltaics so I could essentially commute for free.
i travel 18 miles per day, produce 1,050kWh/yr.
hello photons&electrons, goodbye gasoline
September 18th, 2008 at 8:50 am
I much prefer the production version to the concept. The nifty concept vehicle is the sort of thing that everyone admires, and says they’d buy (and a small number of early adopters probably would), but when it comes time to plunk down the long green, something a bit more conventional would win out by a huge margin in the long run.
It’s what’s under the hood, and the zero gasoline for almost all of my driving, that is the real draw, and the good looks of the production version (as opposed to my Prius) are secondary.
September 18th, 2008 at 9:10 am
I prefer the appearance of the concept. It looks unique, has a bit of muscle car appearance and combines nice lines with some angles too.
The production version looks like an accord and a prius somehow procreated.
Then again if I can afford it and it lives up to the proposed specs, then I’d still buy one. Almost definitely in a different color however.
September 18th, 2008 at 9:51 am
In terms of appearance the concept car is my preference. However, in terms of functionality the production car is much more practical. It appears to provide the types of things that the concept car would have ultimately been heavily scrutinized over. Things like passenger headroom in the rear seat, trunk space, adequate leg room, comfortable sitting height, trunk space, driver visibility, etc. It’s easy to ignore these things to make a sleek looking concept vehicle but when it comes to making a functional family sedan it’s hard to get away with ignoring these necessities. So pratically speaking I think that the transformation was somewhat inevitable and to be expected.
September 18th, 2008 at 11:10 am
Like many others I prefer the looks of the concept over the production vehicle but gained a new appreciation for the production after the unveiling. As technology improves I believe the same e-flex drive train will power other body styles offering more choices for the consumer. My advice for GM is to stay on track and don’t look back! The future is wide open!
September 18th, 2008 at 11:10 am
I realize that concept cars are not for everyone, but the production version of this is a little plain jane next to the original. That said, the production model looks perfectly acceptable. You certainly wouldn’t get noticed in it, but it will be a good conversation topic to impress all your friends if you’re an early adopter.
September 18th, 2008 at 11:26 am
176 tdk – “I much prefer the production version to the concept. The nifty concept vehicle is the sort of thing that everyone admires, and says they’d buy (and a small number of early adopters probably would), but when it comes time to plunk down the long green, something a bit more conventional would win out by a huge margin in the long run.
—————————————————————-
I’ve been saying that all along, but it goes for the production Volt, too. It’s easy to say “I gonna get a Volt. I’m # whatever on the list”.
But when it comes time to sign the loan form, committing you to pay $700.00 a month for your $35,000 Volt (estimated price after gov’t intentive, no trade, no down payment, 5% interest), I bet a lot of these posters get cold feet. That’s $350.00 out of every bi-weekly paycheck you get, for 5 long years, plus insurance, tags, title.
And don’t forget rent or morgage payments, heating / ac bills, electric, phone, cable, cell phone, home insurance, gas, water / sewer, and other assorted bills, and also property and income taxes. Whew !
Should be interesting to see how many loan defaults occur for the Volt. Stay tuned.
September 18th, 2008 at 11:30 am
Two comments . . . . One, the projected price point is a show-stopper. Few American buyers can afford a $40,000+ automobile, especially during these times of tight credit. GM should not price this vehicle out of its intended market. It is a Chevy sedan, after all. It is not supposed to replace the Corvette. Two, the 4-cycle engine appears to achieve poor gas mileage. It should be an Atkinson cycle engine at the very least. Given the efficiency of the electric drive train, the engine ought to deliver the equivalent of a minimum of 40-50 MPG. Its rated 30 MPG when running the car in battery-depleted mode works out to about 36 MPG over the stated 400 mile range of the car. Even the Ford Escape Hybrid gets this mileage today at far less purchase price ($33K fully tricked out) and with more luggage room.
September 18th, 2008 at 11:30 am
the concept is still better by far. the production dosn’t look bad but it can’t hold a candle to the concept. I still think GM dropped the ball big time and I will not be buying this car until they make it look good.
September 18th, 2008 at 11:44 am
The production car is a embarasment to GM. With all the resources spent on the Volt, they could of just got a Chevy Malibu out of the stable and changed the drivetrain and came up with a better looking production car. I feel GM deliberately lead the public down a path without ever having any intentions in producing the anything like the concept vehicle.(a semi-sporty car with ground breaking drivetrain.) I was hoping to see a car with more curb appeal, but I see a production car that looks like any other car on the road today.(plain jane) Sorry GM, I will take my business elsewhere.
September 18th, 2008 at 11:52 am
[...] Jalopnik: Obsessed With The Cult Of Cars POLL: Chevy Volt Concept Versus Production Version: GM-VOLT : Chevy Volt Electric Car Site
September 18th, 2008 at 12:10 pm
who the crap are you guys kidding??…the concept design is a sports car…its beautiful….I was excited…extremely…and commited…extremely…The production design is a friggin saturn. You guys just went from inspired to generic to save 6 miles per charge. Its crap. I WAS going to buy one of these when I got out of College. I am not going to anymore. Any way I can get a 32 mile range and the original car? you killed it.
PS the only people that are saying they like the production model better are probably the people that made it.
September 18th, 2008 at 12:27 pm
The concept was a awesome looking car. I had intrest in this car, but now that you turned it into looking like a Honda Civic. No more!! the concept was something new, something that gets people attention and a ofcourse save on gas. The new desigin is not a head turner. too bad! i would not buy one now, just another ugly fuel saving car. Like others have posted, I would not pay $40,000 for a ugly looking car.
September 18th, 2008 at 12:36 pm
I personally am really dissapointed in the production model. I really liked the concept model and had planned to buy one when they were put into production. I do not like the new model and will be looking for a different vehicle. Most people are looking for something sporty looking and that had all the qualities originally listed for the concept volt. The production model looks like every thing else out there that has already been produced. I as, well as many others am extremely dissapointed. This was a bad move for GM. HOWEVER it is not to late to fix your mistakes and still produce a great selling and popular car.
September 18th, 2008 at 1:10 pm
An issue I see here is one which has plagued GM for some time now – sincerity. I’m going to buy the Volt when it’s available. However, I find pole results stating the production Volt is more attractive than the concept troubling. For both interior and exterior styling, everyone I’ve spoken to outside this website agrees the concept is more attractive. Frankly, I’m beginning to feel like marketing steering is at work; and if other loyal followers of the Volt start feeling the same…well, it’s bad for the Volt.
Every person I’ve talked to in the real world would take the concept Volt with only 35 miles per charge and verses 40 in the production Volt. I’m sure GM knows this. But I also suspect the only true motivation for GM in changing the design features was that of cost.
I would have preferred GM to simply say “folks we can’t give you this car at the desired price…but here’s what we can do.” Because it’s not a bad looking car and I believe it can be a “game changer.” But don’t show me a different Volt than the one I fell in love with and tell me “everyone likes this one better…you should too.” My natural inclination to propaganda is to take offense and walk away. And if anyone ever sees me walk away from the Volt…Well, you can be sure I was pushed.
September 18th, 2008 at 1:13 pm
This is great, finally… But why does it take 2 years to mass produce??? They don t seem to be in a hurry to save our asses from peak oil!
September 18th, 2008 at 1:28 pm
For once that I thought GM is going to be ahead of the curve because the bold design of the concept Volt. By changing the look of Volt back to what 90% of the cars on the street look like, GM put themselves back at the tail of the curve. I would pay 40k for the concept Volt. But the production model looks like a cheap 20-25k car and it is just plain boring. I have two boring cars and a SUV on my driveway. I was going to replace one boring car with the concept Volt. But now why would I replace one boring looking car with another one that looks just as boring and costs more?
Aerodynamic is not everything, especially when it doesn’t significantly increase the miles per charge (like 10%). I am not going to drive the car for car race. A little less aerodynamic is not a big deal. But the look is. The change GM made is just terrible.
September 18th, 2008 at 1:54 pm
At first I wasn’t going to buy the new Chevy Prius (Volt) based on the looks alone. I’m one of those who LOVED the looks of the Concept Volt. It’s similar to my ‘06 Dodge Charger, it’s got that nice low roof line and long hood. They were both like a car the ZZ Top might feature in a video. They both have that gangster kind of look (that’s what it reminds me of, gangsters from the 20’s & 30’s). Shoot, I’d even buy a concept styled Volt if it had an ICE set up. It’s that great!
But now, IF (and that’s not likely right now) I change my mind, my first mod will be to buy Prius or Toyota emblems for the Volt and put them on. That’s how bad GM messed up! And I hate every car from Toyota.
I STILL HATE THE WAY GM IS OUT OF TOUCH WITH AMERICA!!! I recognize it and I live in the Detroit area! “**knock, knock, knock** Hello GM? New flash, not everyone is into buying American just because it’s American! But don’t take my word for it, take a look at your sales over the past 20 – 30 years. Or just take a trip to another state. I lived in PA for a while and I noticed how many foreign cars Americans had! You need to make great cars, not mimic your competition.”
September 18th, 2008 at 1:57 pm
I much prefer the styling of the concept, but the production version still looks good to me (better than Prius by a mile). The styling wouldn’t stop me from buying one… just the price tag.
September 18th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
I fell in love with the concept and it’s style in addition to it being an electric car and I still prefer the concept, BUT if I hadn’t seen the concept first, I doubt I’d be disappointed with the looks of the production version. The production version is still a really slick looking car, just not that much different style wise than every other car on the road. I fell in love with the flashy style and the electric-concept put together in the volt, and even though it still looks good, I still feel like I’m settling for something less that what I first fell in love with. That’s ok, but I was just hoping for something a little more.
September 18th, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Sometimes this blog reminds me of the Yahoo! car blogs. You know the ones where people give five star or one star reviews to cars they have never driven or can’t afford based on looks, whether or not they had a bad day, or a combination of both.
The reality is that this car is a hybrid with poor performance numbers compared to other hybrids, and a price tag approaching the median U.S. family income. That means most of the people on this site don’t make enough money to buy the thing and those with the money have enough sense not to. (Note I didn’t mention bodywork once).
I am really disappointed. The concept car hype suggested something between the tesla and the prius. FANTASTIC! What we got was a drab eco car that can’t even compete with a prius.
September 18th, 2008 at 5:11 pm
I like the production version.
Here’s what they need to build:
Volt wagon (like Saab 9-3 Sportcombi)
Volt Coupe (like Crossfire coupe)
Volt roadster (like Crossfire convertable)
Volt convertable (like Sebring convertable)
Volt pickup (like G8 sport truck)
ES (Electric Sport, suspension & apperance)
September 18th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
This is very disappointing… This car has evolved from a totally original and impressive design w/ promising technology to another ugly Honda Civic copy. To the designers of GM, please have a look at the similarities to these pictures:
Honda Civic:
- http://imshopping.rediff.com/pixs/productsearch/product_images/four_wheeler/Honda-Civic-1.8VMT.jpg
Chevy Volt:
- http://cache.jalopnik.com/assets/images/jalopnik/2008/09/production-chevy-volt_02.jpg
The technology behind it is its saving grace, but please go back to the original design. Having copies like the GTO(from Holden Monaro) and G5(from the Cobalt) are eye-sores on the road already, pls not another one.
September 18th, 2008 at 7:02 pm
[...] Jalopnik: Obsessed With The Cult Of Cars POLL: Chevy Volt Concept Versus Production Version: GM-VOLT : Chevy Volt Electric Car Site
September 18th, 2008 at 8:33 pm
Bob, Bob, Bob,
GM is doing it again. While I am a die hard GM fan, why must GM insist on taking great ideas & going conservative with them (as in the production version of the Volt) when every other manufacturer is coming out with different & aggressive/exciting cars. I was (as in past tense) planning on pre-ordering (if that is even possible) the Volt concept verion because it was so cool & so aggressive looking. Now it looks like every other car out there (yawn!). Where’s your adventurous spirit? Take a chance & I think this car would definitely become a best seller as long as you keep the price reasonable. GM needs to be a leader in creating cool looking cars, not a follower as it has been for the last couple of years. I actually find the new version of the Volt quite depressing. Your engineers definitely have the right idea, you just need to stop micromanaging & let them do what they do best!!
Bummed out in Georgia,
Suzanne
September 18th, 2008 at 10:45 pm
I am 42 years old and I voted for the concept. The production looks like a Prius. The production IS a Prius in form and function. The Prius is already on the market and is a helluva lot cheaper. I suspect that the production model supporters are GM brand loyal fanbois. Look at what the public buys and you will see that you have to cater to the demand of style. SUV’s don’t sell because they have functional merit, they sell because they fill the form need. Same goes for Corvettes and Mustangs. I was waiting for the Volt, not anymore. I suppose I will get the Prius since it is available now. Too bad GM won’t be around to see the next 100 years.
September 18th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
I’m still very unhappy about the EV1. I’ve refused to buy anything built in detroit my whole life, and this car is GM’s second chance with me. I expect them to blow the opportunity. I liked the concept, and as usual, expect them to make a crappy cheesey econo car that you wouldn’t trade an ancient Mercedes for…… I have money. I want enviro-cool. I won’t buy enviro-crap.
September 18th, 2008 at 11:21 pm
I was excited about the volt when I saw the concept it had the style that gm needed to get themselves on track instead they they sold us out and decided to copy japan what happened here japan copys us the production looks like the prius which is ugly when gm showed the concept why did they want opinions on it then they dont do what is right this is why they are going under maybe the can get there loan from japan so my taxes dont go up
September 19th, 2008 at 4:51 am
$40,000? Bob, I am disappointed. Look at the news, our country is as close to going into another depression as it has been since 1929. When I saw the concept car I fell in love with it, but had no idea it would be in the forties. I want GM to stay in business, & I want & always have bought American made vehicles because if we allow all of the products purchased in the US to come from China (where they can’t even get baby formula right) or Japan no one in America is going to have a job to buy anything which happens to be an essential part of the purchasing process. This car (concept version) needs to have a base in the low 20s & then give people the option of trimming it out later if they want or have that option financially.
I am in my forties as well & I have a great job that could afford a vehicle in the forties, but now that I have seen the production version, the car no longer appeals to me because it looks just like the cars I have refused to buy for the past 20 years, so I say it’s time for fans of the Concept Volt to RE-VOLT, & maybe just maybe we can save you from yourself.
September 19th, 2008 at 6:09 am
If the front grill is fake, why have it there at all? I think the overall production design would have looked better without the fake grill.
September 19th, 2008 at 7:15 am
Ah, the new Volt……grandma’s new electric Sunday driver car. I am already starting to hear it.
September 19th, 2008 at 11:16 am
I far prefer the production version
I wouldnt be caught DEAD drivng that concept, it’s UGLY and looks PAINFUL
WAY TO GO GM !
My Chevy dealer already has my deposit
.NFD
September 19th, 2008 at 11:22 am
The new production Volt looks AWESOME based on the new pictures posted from GMs announcement. Can’t wait to drive it.
The concept car was far too impractical for a family car IMO
September 19th, 2008 at 11:55 am
Nasaman # 167 Somewhat off topic, but I’ve been racking my brain as to what GM may be doing in response to Lutz’ remark on 9/16 during his chat session when he said, “The Volt uses a ‘top secret’ transmission that other manufacturers have never even thought of.”
RB Says: #174
Nasaman, I’m glad you picked up on the top secret transmission comment from Bob Lutz at the centennial online blog session as I have been pursuing more info in this as I believe it’s the mast major unknown area of the drivetrain that can make a noticeable difference on how the car will behave. I was the one that posed this question to Bob as well as several others along the same lines. The fact that he chose to answer this particular version of the question (I had some more longwinded ones as well) plus responding to my follow-on question about Tesla, does lead me to believe this transmission will feature some sort of torque multiplication via either fixed ratios, or variable. Their challenge will be how to do this with the least amount of geartrain losses and still make the transition to direct drive smooth given the high torque output of the motor. There was another blog that was following the patent office submissions, but all those were believed to be for hybrid designs, and not a pure electric. In his later response where he confirmed that Tesla would be the one inspired this time,… I also think this supports gear multiplication because Tesla originally designed a two speed transmission of apx 1.6/1 for its first gear, but had to abandoned that idea due to design and manufacturing issues. Some people claim an electric does not need a transmission which I can agree to, but the math is clear, some gear multiplication even on a motor with a totally linier torque curve is advantageous.
I think if they choose a 2 speed transmission, that 1.7/1 would be ideal.
Let me illustrate the point another way, a typical 4 cyl engine with a peak of 150 ftlbs torque has a transmission that provides apx 4/1 between its highest and lowest gear. That equates to 600 ftlbs torque to the differential in 1st gear. Even off its peak (i.e. gas engines do not have a liniear torque curve), the motor still makes 100ftlbs which equates to 400 ftlbs to the diff in 1st gear. If the Volt is to have decent off the line get up and go with its strong apx 250 ft/lbs motor, a 1.7/1 will give it 425 ftlbs to the Diff and probably be able to stay in that gear up to 75mph, where as the traditional 5 speed 4 cyl car world have to shift out by 35 mph. These numbers are not suggested to be what the volt will be, but only to illustrate the point. Another thing to consider is that a little modest gearing will allow the motor to spin up with less current draw due to the torque multiplication, and therefore less taxing of the battery. To achieve the range GM wants on the EPA test profiles (I mean they cannot state range based upon a strady state speed, they will have to adopt the test profiles the EPA uses, and that means a lot of varied driving), they will likely want to take advantage of mechanical torque multiplication through fixed or variable gearing.
As for your idea of alternating the motors torque curve electronically by adjusting its timing, I agree this does have a useful effect, believe it or not, its common on RC race cars where you can test a lot of these tuning parameters on a small acale and see first hand the results. These were DC motors, and it made a big effect (though not as much as a gear change). An important point, both the timing and the gear changes had an effect on the range of the battery. For this point alone, don’t count out GM from using both (assuming variable timing is applicable to A/C motors).
I’m very excited to hear more of this “Top Secret” transmission, so if anyone hears anything please set up a post.
Anyone, anyone who made it to the end of this long winded opinion should be congratulated, … and you have way too much time on your hands!
September 19th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
If God wanted us to drive eco cars like the Volt there would be no oil in the ground. God gave us oil to TAKE not save.
Liberal solutions like batteries are a slap in the face of religion. We should spread the word of God to the arabs so they will share the oil with us.
Giving up wont spread the word. The Volt is a cowards car.
September 19th, 2008 at 4:09 pm
It’s not that the production car looks bad. It looks like an Acura. It will probably sell well based on functionality alone. Just look at the Prius. The disapointment will be the “promise” of what could have been. Striking looks, great functionality, good price. This could have been exactly what GM needs to buy respect in the market.
September 19th, 2008 at 8:36 pm
Bob,
You need to think outside the box, not create another box. If you would only take a chance on the concept version of this car with the understanding that its base is in the 20’s, you could go down in history as the man that turned GM’s dilemna into delight.
September 20th, 2008 at 8:05 am
You guys could mess up an ice cream sundae! The concept looked hot. The production looks like every other p.o.s. car you have produced and lost market share as a result of. The concept car had an aggressive look, and one for which you pretty much received universal praise. Your production car looks like a cross between the Aveo and the Malibu, two cars that I would never buy one. I never would have bought the Volt simply because it’s electric. I buy for styling as well mechanics. This bland redo of an originally beautiful concept car is a loser. Hey GM, if you think that I am going to spend $40k for a Malibu look alike with innovative guts – think again. GM too often sells based on “American pride”, but often fails to give us something of which to be proud. The concept car was bold and made me proud of you – the production car moves me along to the next hybrid dealer.
September 20th, 2008 at 6:01 pm
With the VOLT design, GM is already several years behind the competition. GM needs an EV that will be highway capable (60+ mph), have a range of 150 miles, and they need to deliver it by 2010. Anything less means GM will be out of business by 2011.
Do the research !!!
Good Luck
September 21st, 2008 at 8:00 am
Can’t believe they changed the design? I loved this unique look of the prototype, even got myself a 1/32 model in my display case. But this design looks like any other car out there. For $40000+ I’m not just interested whats in the inside ….why why why?
September 22nd, 2008 at 6:14 am
You took the wow factor that the concept car offered & flipped it over so that now instead of screaming wow, it says mom, with a price tag that only a well established family can afford.
If GM truly wants to live by its motto the Next Generation, you need to put the concept version of the car back on the table at a price that the masses can afford. In the last year the value of homes dropped significantly. How can GM justify a $40,000 price tag during these hard times when people have less money than ever to purchase vehicles? Check your dealership sales GM. Everyone is hurting. Unless you create a unique vehicle at a price the masses can afford, the hurt you are currently experiencing to your sales figures will only continue.
September 23rd, 2008 at 12:29 am
They had a chance to make a bold statement and maybe put the brand back at the forefront. Instead they dummied down the car to a soccer mom car. What soccer mom is going to pay 40K for this car when she can get a good foriegn car for 25K. If you think somebody is going to throw their money away just to be green or american your mistaken. They said the’re going to build 10K, if they sell half that I’ll be shocked.
September 23rd, 2008 at 2:36 am
I love GM and as an American I have bought nothing but American, until I like others have been squeezed and forced to buy a Japan car in place of my Suburban. I think the idea is good, but at 40k the middle class just cannot afford it in these tough times. GM… I love you guys but this a roll of the dice that just might cost you dearly. Try taking your ideas to the street level of people in America and not some high level engineer you employ who does not have basic simplicity and utility in mind, you just might find your golden egg.
September 24th, 2008 at 8:30 pm
I like the concept car.It’s what got me interesed in the Volt in first place.I believe that this a start in the right direction for America and we despritly need to cut our dependance on any fossil fueled vehicle. I will be very disapointed if I can’t buy the concept /Sport model. Its a beautiful car ,so BRING IT ON GM. BE A LEADER.
January 17th, 2009 at 11:56 am
Detroit is out of touch. Given the same features, the concept design would by far outsell the new design .. not to mention the competition.
January 25th, 2009 at 10:08 pm
The concept matches the hype of GM attempting to boast they can keep up with a start-up like Tesla. This reminds me of the battles between microsoft and any programmer in a garage. They can’t be as nimble and conceptually different as Tesla, and they can’t keep up with Toyota and Honda in product line diversification.
I would buy the production model, but it’s basically a malibu-Aura mix with a little nascar trickery in the decals to make it look somewhat like the volt concept.
My disappointment is with a concept that looks to be competing with a Tesla or Camaro and a production car that’s sliding in line with every other hybrid in the market and it’s coming 5 years after the fact.
December 7th, 2009 at 11:10 pm
The concept is WAY better. Bait and switch. You’ve lost me already.
The production model is a completely different car and BORING.
Soccer Moms and high schoolers are going to pay $40k for a car.
They’ll be buying a $23k Prius instead.
December 14th, 2009 at 2:42 pm
GM you blew it. You had something special with the Concept Volt and totally destroyed it with Production Volt. Most people had nothing but praise for the Concept design. I was seriously considering buying the Concept, but you turned it into a joke. Was that intentional? People like good looking cars GM. Its okay to have style.
I also thought it was interesting that most of the positive comments, which weren’t many, showed up at the top of this poll.