Feb 01
GM CEO: Volt Will Roll out Simultaneously in US, and a Billion Dollars Couldn’t Bring it Sooner
An area about the Volt that remains unknown is exactly how GM plans to roll out the car.
So far there have been announcements about California, Michigan, and Washington DC being initial markets, but the exact timing of showroom arrivals isn’t clear. GM executives over the years have generally stuck to the premise that the cars will gradually and sequentially be rolled out state by state throughout the nation albeit quickly.
I recently had the chance to go straight to the top and ask GM’s new CEO Ed Whitacre the question that always nags at me, why not release the car throughout the nation simultaneously?
“Our plan is to introduce it everywhere simultaneously,” he said.
He cautioned that volumes will be low. ”We’re not going to have a great number of them,” he added.
GM expects to produce about 10,000 Volts the first year.
Whitacre also said there are plans to get some Volts in the market prior to November 2010.
“We’re going to have a few out early,” said Whitacre. ”We’re in the testing stage now,where its pretty much done.”
He explained how GM’s board offered significant funding to see how soon the car could be launched.
“I did ask them ‘If I gave you another billion dollars could you get it out sooner?” he said. “They said no because its all about testing.”
“Its being tested in the desert and the artic now, the timeframe is dependent on testing,” he added.
And finally Mr. Whitacre told me something about the early Volts that was a gift beyond my wildest dreams.
“I’ll put you on the list to get one,” he promised.
Booya!!!
This entry was posted on Monday, February 1st, 2010 at 7:37 am and is filed under Launch. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.
+18
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:44 am)Good morning, all
Test, test, and test some more.
I am so happy they are testing the hell out of this car.
Way to go GM. Way to go.
+59
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:47 am)Well congrats on your pending new Volt! After the work you’ve done, they’d be crazy not to get you one. I mean, it’s not like they’re giving it to you for free; they are simply making sure you get one of the first ones. This gesture doesn’t cost them anything except an exercise in good grace. They are smart for doing it and you are deserving to get it.
But why did you cut off the last part of Mr. Whitacre’s statement? You know, the part where he said “…. and of course, Jim in PA will also be on the list as our little way of thanking him for his uninformed postings, criticism of me, and periodic threadjacking. We couldn’t have done it without you, Jimbo!”
+5
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:49 am)Three cheers for you Lyle! Hope the smile did not crack your face in two.
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:50 am)Great news (for you and us), Lyle!
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:50 am)Go Lyle!!!
Congratulations, man ^_^
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:51 am)Sure does seem like the quality is going to be right there.
+7
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:58 am)Well, it seems only fitting that Lyle should get one of the first Volts.
They’re testing them in the desert, they’re testing them in the artic, might as well have someone test ‘em in the jungle (i.e. New York City).
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:16 am)So, there is a list. um!
NPNS!
+5
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:20 am)From the article:
“I’ll put you on the list to get one,” he promised.
There really isn’t anyone alive more deserving of a Volt than you, Lyle.
I hope you get it sooner rather than later.
+4
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:22 am)I just watched “Who killed the electric car” again this weekend… what a difference 10 years and 1 bankruptcy makes. One of the guys in my dojo had leased an EV1 and I saw it there in the parking lot from time to time. He still will not forgive GM and told me he wanted an apology letter from them. I told him I was getting a Volt and he shook his head saying that he will never trust GM again. I said I could not blame him but I am very much looking forward to getting my first generation Volt and comparing notes with Lyle on how amazing it is.
I am also impressed that despite all that has happened GM has maintained the patience to ensure that the testing is done right to make this a great product.
+7
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:27 am)Booya! Haha, nice Lyle. Could you please ask him to put the other 50,000 of us on a GM-recognized list too?
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:29 am)It is not clear to me whether “everywhere” refers to the three initial markets, or at every dealership nation wide. I expect everywhere refers to the three initial markets, for about four months, followed by a national on sale date sometime in the spring. How do others see it?
+5
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:31 am)It certainly is exciting. It is now February, and soon Lyle will have his Volt.
But only 10,000 the first year. The slow ramp up as they build up their production facilities and supply chains while keeping supply well short of demand is still sort of maddening.
Hoping each year can see incremental improvements, much larger production runs, and other models reaching production.
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:33 am)Fantastic news!
When’s the first Volt-led all-EV road-ralleye?
+5
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:35 am)They can test and test, but they’ll never think of everything. Put the Volt in some consumers hands, then it will get a real test that tells something.
+5
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:42 am)What can you say to this reaction?
A web surf of the EV blogs and Volt specific blogs expose the huge number of people who are showing high interest in the Volt. GM is aware of this. And GM is also aware of dealership feedback regarding shopper inquiries.
I spoke with the manager at Paradise Chevrolet in Ventura. Flat out told him that I didn’t want to buy a car he had on the lot. I told him, “I am interested in the Volt”. And “information about the Volt”. He nodded and replied, “We’re getting a lot of hits on this”. I test drove the Malibu before leaving.
Happy to hear of the thorough testing program. Great to hear Dr. Lyle (just a regular guy) Dennis is firmly on the consideration list.
A good day for the Volt community.
=D~
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:44 am)“Our plan is to introduce it everywhere simultaneously,”
====================
I am with Van @ #12 on this one.
So how can there be a limited rollout in three or four markets, and have that statement above from Mr. Whitacre be accurate?
OK, Lyle, you got yourself on the list. And I am thrilled about it for you. But now it is your moral duty to get the rest of us here added as well………………..
Jim I @ #1396 on the list is ready!
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:45 am)Can hardly wait for you to get your Volt. That’s when the real reviews start. I have a feeling that this car is going to be near perfect and sales will out strip GM’s wildest dreams. I sure hope they have a real marketing program and have removed the shameful stuff that they were producing from that program.
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:47 am)Hey Guys, finally saw the Volt in Person at the DC Auto Show and I have to say it looks a heck of a lot better in Person than in Pictures. Can’t wait to get mine.
Also Congrats to Lyle, he deserves a top spot on the List.
+5
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:49 am)“And finally Mr. Whitacre told me something about the early Volts that was a gift beyond my wildest dreams.
“I’ll put you on the list to get one,” he promised.”
____________________________________________________
+40,000 for Ed Whitacre! So glad to hear that Lyle—You deserve it!
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:50 am)Lyle,
Is that one for you off the assembly line somtime in regular production or one of the “early” ones? Early would be fantastic for you and us.
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:50 am)So how do we get on the list?
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:51 am)I read “everywhere” as meaning all dealers everywhere, though on second reading you may well be right.
To me the more critical issue is volume. So long as volume sticks to 10K in the first year and 60K in the second, Volts are going to be in short supply IMO though 2012, at least.
Volume is where a billion dollars might make a big difference, although even here there is a question about capacity to make batteries.
And Lyle, congratulations on “being on the list”. Whatever that means, it has to be good!
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:56 am)Off topic, over the weekend I received an email from a local dealership that began as follows
I want to take a minute of your time to bring you up to speed on the situation with General Motors. As you know, GM filed for bankruptcy protection last year and also received billions of dollars of bailout money from the federal government (i.e., you and me – U.S. taxpayers). GM placed part of the blame on the fact they believe they have too many dealers and that dealers cost them money, which simply is not true. Let’s see … I pay for all of the cars and trucks on my lot, I pay for my advertising and I pay for the training of my staff. How does a dealer cost the manufacturer money? We are their customers. We buy their products!
The dealer was asking that people write and support his dealership in its struggle to avoid being closed by gm. So it seems that the corporation still is squabbling with delaers, and not yet able to get to a clean re-start.
+13
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:58 am)Is anyone here surprised you’re on the list?
With as much ‘Goodwill’ that this site has provided for GM, he should be giving it to you for FREE and throwing in floormats and an Extended Warranty!
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:03 am)Yes, well said. I can see the logic of it, but it is maddening.
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:23 am)Conrats Lyle! No one deserves being at the top of the list more than you.
Naturally, I’m focused on the statement that some Volts will be released to *consumers* before this November. Could that be alluding to Independence Day? In any case, the time is getting (relatively) short before the wheels are on the road!
Thanks again for your fine work. I guess GM helped a little too.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
+16
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:31 am)I’ve always gone a bit against the grain by supporting GM’s decision to seize and crush the EV-1s. It was an economically unviable car, and as soon as it became apparent that GM didn’t need it (due to California’s change in zero emission requirements) and that they would take huge losses on the vehicle, they did what they had to in order to protect their intellectual property. Just look at how much of the EV-1 knowledge was then used on the Volt, and look at how far ahead of everyone else GM is on electric car technology because of it. Crushing those EV-1s was not only defensible but also smart business.
+4
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:32 am)Tag, remember when you and I began circulating a petition to ask GM for a Volt for Lyle 2yrs ago next month at VoltNation in NYC? Well, we now know Lyle was right when he asked us to stand down on continuing that petition. I want to add my sincere congratulations to Tag’s, Lyle! And we didn’t even have to ask GM for a Volt for you afterall!
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:36 am)Sounds great. Lyle should be high on the list.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:40 am)Great news!
I have to say I interpreted “everywhere” as all of the initial roll-out markets at the same time. I think it is important for the Volt to have proper support at trained dealers so imho hopefully this is not a nationwide rollout. Or maybe I am biased because I live in LA…
I would love to be wrong, however, about the “low 30s” comment a couple of posts ago. I also interpreted that as being after the tax credit, but Lyle sure seems to indicate otherwise.
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:43 am)Hi nasaman,
I remember my involvement in your fine idea, and Lyle’s, ahem, “suggestion” that we stand down (g). VoltNation I was a real “happening” and I genuinely hope that there is a followup meeting at some point prior to the release of the Volt into the wild. It’d be so great to sit down with some of the kindred spirits here.
Be well and hope to see you soon,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
-5
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:52 am)I just hope all of this testing really irons out the bugs. It would be a disaster for 10,000 of these to get out and then to have major failures with a large percentage of them.
The recalls/repairs could kill the program before it even got started. It’s one thing to sell a thousand $109,000 electric car toys to rich people what will use them to show off or now and then. Not to mention using Lotus for the car itself. But it is quite another to design and build an affordable electric car that will be driven, and driven, hard by the masses on a daily basis.
There is something nagging me that this “testing” should move from an alpha stage to a year long beta stage with perhaps a two hundred cars spread across the country. I’d rather wait and definitely have them get it right. Then again I guess this limited 10,000 run is the beta test stage.
I guess someone could make another “Who killed the Electric Car…Again” movie if disaster occurs.
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:55 am)I for one, will be there if there is another Voltnation.
I too look forward to meeting a lot of people here.
I met Nasaman and I am pretty sure I met you, Tag.
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:08 am)Congratulation, Lyle on getting a Volt. Looking forward to all your reviews on the Volt, from your personal experience perpective.
+4
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:09 am)If the dealer were honest with himself/herself and with their customers, the answer would be that it takes $$$ for GM to support dealers. If GM can make more profit by selling more cars to fewer dealers without losing too many end customers, then they should do that. Business can be tough. But if GM doesn’t do all it can to be more efficient and profitable then it won’t be around in the future for any dealer.
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:22 am)Could Ed have been referring to the pre-November distribution list?
Maybe Lyle will be able to report on his ownership experience in the fall. Get Charged Up and Press On.
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:24 am)As others have said, how do we get on the CEO’s private list? I am thinking some very high-level/high-profile people are going this route.
Good to see Lyle is getting traction with the Whitacre. Hopefully GM is watching this site and ignoring our political and AGW rants.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:26 am)Way to to Lyle !!!..
When you get your Volt and want to do some real winter testing …. come see me in Central Alberta Canada…
We can compare notes as to how the Volt fares against my 210 Fusion Hybrid….
I will be getting a Volt when they finally get here in 2013 ? ?
# 974 on the “List”…
.. but am keeping the Fusion Hybrid as it is also a fantastic car…
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:33 am)At this point, it’s a pretty safe gamble that Volt will launch this year and be fairly trouble-free.
The WKTEC director is making another movie that highlights the Volt story.
I just hope they get some cars out to some select individuals to use as daily drivers prior to the general launch. They could catch some nasty troubles (such as things falling off in car washes) that developers and their managers wouldn’t possibly know to test for.
I’ll sign an NDA. NP.
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:42 am)Yep! There were quite a few of our east-coast crew there. Was it BillR and his wife that drove for two days to get there in their Prius? I think he’s the one that had the “#1 Volt fan” T-shirt on (a statement with which I strongly disagreed (G))? Great crowd! Imagine how many they’d get there now!
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:48 am)I don’t doubt that GM is monitoring this site and it’d be darn tough to ignore some of the ranting that’s gone on here. JMO.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:53 am)AMEN! I’ve been preaching this for the last year or so. Who knows, it may *be* part of their plan.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:54 am)I am very happy for you Mr. GM-Volt(Lyle)! With hopes they allow your list to be added to theirs.
Zel In FL!
Still ready to be guinney Pig tester!
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:02 am)I tip my hat to you Lyle even though I don’t wear one-my hat goes off to you. You have been tried, tested, and weighed, and have been found worthy!! Way to go. This is great news for you and the rest of us. Although not exactly official, this does make me feel much better in my changes of securing a Volt before 2012. By saying he intends to release in all markets strongly suggests all markets…North, South, East, West, Middle, and surrounding areas. I understand volumes will be small but at least this gives everyone a change to have their cars service locally even if they could purchase one far away from their own market. Again, I look foward to you receiving one and giving us all your impressions going foward. Thanks for all you do educating us and the world on the Volt and electric cars in general.
Hawk
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:12 am)Lyle – great news! I can’t wait to begin reading your daily ‘experience log’ with your new VOLT. BTW, if you need a great local dealer to take delivery from, I’d be honored…
From the article above: “I did ask them ‘If I gave you another billion dollars could you get it out sooner?” he said. “They said no because its all about testing.”
“Its being tested in the desert and the artic now, the timeframe is dependent on testing,” he added.
….I continue to believe GM’s insistance on completing all testing and due dilligence it deems necessary will, in the long run, only enhance the VOLT’s ultimate market success.
In an interesting comparision, I find it interesting that in a matter of a week, Toyota went from admiting they had a problem and stating that they did not have a fix…. to announcing they had the fix and it would begin repairs later this week. They claim the problem occurs after a long period of use… so they must have very impressive testing procedures that can ensure a part designed last weekend can repair a problem that took years to surface. For everyone’s safety, let’s hope they got it right.
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:12 am)What’s noteworthy is this. Its usually the number one operations guy that needs board approval. Now at GM its reversed. Its Whitacre TELLING the board – ‘if I gave you XXX bucks …” Not to make anything out of it – yet -just an observation. Insofar as VOLT and its rollout, it is what it is. Whitacre’s message to Lyle (and the board) he wants ‘ears down’ full flank.
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:14 am)I remember that shirt. I have a picture of it somewhere, but I think GeorgeK was wearing it. I could be wrong though as this is the best picture I have of it.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:15 am)Lyle,
Just make sure you get your color and trim requests in early so GM makes exactly the VOLT you want and deserve!
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:16 am)Sorry, I forget the picture.
And I can’t quite figure out how to get it off my hard drive and onto this web page.
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:16 am)You go boy! We all hope you get that Volt.
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:16 am)That’s great news. Lyle should be on the list after everything he’s done. And it’s great free publicity for them. As long as the quality is there, which it probably is or they wouldn’t be doing this.
I’m also glad that the board realizes just how critical the Volt is to GM’s future…
.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:18 am)Awww crap. It’s not working.
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:21 am)Tag,
You have me confused with someone else (see Rashiid’s comment at 48).
I drove my Tahoe from NH to Bridgeport, CT and took the train into the Big Apple.
Bill
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:28 am)Thaks Tag and Nasaman, i’ll add : Félicitations Lyle, we’ll be impatient to read your report on the délivery of your Volt and your impressions on the everyday driving.
Did you have the boss’ear to invoke the fate of our want list ??
Best regards,
JC NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:31 am)That’s RIGHT, it was GeorgeK! My bad.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:34 am)How cool for you Lyle !!!
We don’t really know the allocations to California, Detriot or even for DC….but we know that there will be at least 1 Volt released in New York !!
Looking forward to the NY auto show again this year – I’ll be there on the 10th!
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:35 am)Tag,You have me confused with someone else (see Rashiid’s comment at 48).I drove my from NH to Bridgeport, CT and took the train intothe Big Apple.Bill
Yeah, it was GeorgeK. My bad.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:44 am)Booya! What a great way to start a Monday morning! Lyle is responsible for more smiles than Santa Claus. And that simultaneous release part brought a great big smile. Start talking to your local GM dealer and get your name at the top of the list. I’m doing it with all the dealers in my area so they can compete for my business.
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:45 am)To be fair, Toyota isn’t saying that the repair will last for years….
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:48 am)It is very easy to look back and say what should have been done – GM thought that Toyota would lose their shirt over the Prius, and Toyota thought they would corner the green market… clearly, one of these automobile manufacturers was correct. The Volt was not supposed to be an economically viable vehicle either (for now)… but it is being built. Why? Because GM got smacked in the face by Toyota and the American buying public (1.2 million Prius models sold in North America as of AUG09). There IS demand and people are fed up with GM TELLING us what WE want. We the consumer will TELL them what WE want and they better build it or we will buy it from someone who does.
GM also built a prototype “Serial Hybrid” of the EV1 (essentially the same thing as a Volt) but it remained a GM science project until 2007. There is much of the EV1 that has gone into the Volt but a lot of that data was lost when many of the people who worked on the project left the company. How much had to be reinvented there?
Let us not forget that GM researched, built and released the EV1 well before the California mandate (the mandate was based on the fact that a major car company could and did build an electric car for consumers) and that GM decided to fight the mandate with a lawsuit. Explain to me the logic of this. You are GM, you now have a viable electric in limited production. California has said that if you want to do business in California, you have to have these cars make up a certain percentage. Every other car maker was flat on their heels as far as an EV went…GM had a 3 – 4 year head start and could have taken over California and converted people who were driving foreign cars back to US manufactured cars, not just EV’s or hybrids. At the same time parts of the company were fighting each other over the debate of demand. One department had a long list of people who were interested in the car while another department took the list apart by making the lease difficult and telling consumers how limited the product was.
I have two hopes, 1) that GM learned something from this and will not repeat those mistakes. and 2) I hope that the years we have lost because of this do not come back to haunt us.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:07 pm)
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:08 pm)Oh forget it. I give up. I have a picture of GeorgeK and his wife.
I have a partial picture of this that shirt, but I’ll be damned if I can get it here.
Here is the link.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/47164097@N06/4322100089/
+6
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:09 pm)Let’s not forget Dr. Lyle in this. If my memory serves me well, he started this website shortly after falling in love with the Volt concept car at an auto show. We may never know for sure, but the Volt might not be this close to production if it were not for Lyle and this website.
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:12 pm)“Our plan is to introduce it everywhere simultaneously”
————————-
This is totally possible. You just need to travel at the speed of light.
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:14 pm)Sounds like you’ve been watching WKTEC a bit too frequently. Each EV1 cost an extraordinary amount of money to build, was a 2 seater, and had limited range. Sure there were a few people who could pony up that amount of money to buy one, but nowhere near enough to make it market-worthy (production-worthy). When GM “loses” people, they don’t lose the technology that those folks worked on. That info stays behind.
BTW, wasn’t Toyota part of the lawsuit you mention? I also seem to remember an electric Rav4, some of which are still on the road. Why did Toyota give up on those?
The thing that we can agree on is that the market demand will eventually determine which vehicles become successful. Gm can no more demand that people buy Tahoe’s, than Toyota can demand that people buy Prius’. The Prius is successful because it’s a great car that meets a market need – a lot like the Volt.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:16 pm)+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:19 pm)The Volt is getting a good shake down in the testing department. So much so that the few possible recalls should be minor. In all honesty we should expect a few small dings.
The Leaf will be publicly perceived as sister to the Volt. The Leaf and Volt are sure to be tied together in news reports regarding “the new electric cars”. Anyone have a sister or brother that may have tarnished the family name a bit?
It will pay dividends (literally) for GM to advertise the Volt as “not a Leaf”. Words such as solid, more advanced, substantial, real world range, and American engineered are appropriate.
I wish Nissan well with the Leaf. And I will be thrilled if the Leaf owners are happy with their purchase. Just saying, it’s not an extended range Chevy Volt.
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:19 pm)Thanks for the link! I was seated just to their left! I need to do a search and see if I got one of the shirt. I’m pretty sure I did because I remember hesitating to document it! (lol).
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:22 pm)Naw, I could burp at the same time that you do. No need for light-speed.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:27 pm)But would it truely be at the same time?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Relativity_of_simultaneity
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:34 pm)Thank you. How did you get it to show up?
I clicked the image link below and pasted the URL.
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:35 pm)Is it possible that the “three initial markets” are the places where “We’re going to have a few out early?”
Great news, Lyle; I eagerly await your first-hand Volt-ownership posts.
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:36 pm)It would if we both had aether-based Timex watches (g).
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:38 pm)Wouldn’t Independence Day be a good time to have Voltnation II?
.
I’d be up for a trip from Detroit to the east coast. Heck, if Lyle’s car is ready, I’ll deliver it
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:38 pm)I was wondering that too.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:40 pm)Count ME in, but Statik doesn’t have that date open.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:45 pm)July 4th is a Sunday. R U sure Statik can’t make it?
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:48 pm)I would be glad to sign a Beta test agreement if it meant getting a Volt a bit sooner. It might be an added benefit to interact with the GM team to find and fix bugs. I’m fairly confident that any bugs would not be major.
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:52 pm)I clicked “All Sizes”, then copied the link for “Download the Large Size”. I think the link has to point to a /*.jpg for it to post here.
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:53 pm)Well . . . here’s how I do it.
First, if the image is on the web somewhere, I always save it to my hard drive.
Second, I go to “www.tinypic.com,” a free image and video hosting service. There are many others.
Third, under “Upload pictures and videos,” there is a file-navigation box. Use it to find the file that you downloaded. The next field down, “Tags,” I’ve never used. In the next section down, make sure “images” is ticked. (There is also a pull-down for resizing options, and a tick which allows an email copy to be sent). Click “Upload Now.”
(You’ll see “uploading picture, please wait.”)
Fourth: You will see four fields from which you can copy a link, and a thumbnail of your picture (a handy way to make sure you uploaded the correct one).
Fifth: Highlight the link which begins [IMG]http://(x).tinypic.com/ , and paste it into your comment editing area:
[IMG]http://i47.tinypic.com/10p9jef.jpg[/IMG]
Fifth: correct the link so that the “IMG” is lower-case:
This is a picture which I took this January in Key West, of an electric car (I just navigated to the file on my hard drive, without downloading from the web; which you can also do).
Happy posting, all.
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:55 pm)Maybe it is time to start up another list. You could make it a survey that lists different times, different places. If there is enough interest, maybe several different cities simultaneously, all linked up with closed-circuit TV?
Feb 1st, 2010 (12:57 pm)He said he’d be in Vegas.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:04 pm)… so his attendance might be something of a crap shoot.
ba-dump-bump.
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:04 pm)______________________________________________________
“I’ll put you on the list to get one,” he promised.
———-
+1 for Whitacre
______________________________________________________
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:07 pm)My point exactly. I wish Mr. Whitacre would just recognize the 50,000 of us who are true fans of the Volt and wish to help GM spread its wings again.
P.S. Pretty glad Lyle get to have his Volt soon. He deserves it plenty.
+17
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:12 pm)Congratulations Lyle. For the top three early releases I’d say It’s Bob Lutz, Rick Waggoner and you. Those guys probably can get one anytime so it’s especially great to see Ed Whitacre recognizing your major contribution.
A note to GM watchers, Ed, and others – what Dr. Dennis has done is an uplifting exercise in grass roots marketing and product development. Dennis recognized the very positive reaction to the Chevy Volt concept and immediately elected to grow that reaction by building this web site. So popular was the idea of a major car company pioneering a state of the art EV, the site took off, fueled by a flux of disparate forces and group identities.
What we see here and hovering around the Volt project are people from all political sectors, green movements, national security interests, manufacturing interests, economic interests, even the geeks! Volt speaks to all these people who do not usually speak to each other. This is no small achievement; demonstrating that Volt is not just an innovative electric car. Everyone here, at GM design and management, Dr. Dennis and those around the world with an interest in lowering dependence on petroleum oil – has made this is a major win.
Best of all… If Volt succeeds in leading the electrification of transport – we have one more reason to keep our young men and women serving in the armed forces out of harm’s way. That alone is worth the price of admission in our book. Driving an EV to work each day and passing by the gas station – is particularly sweet icing on the cake.
Good works.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:14 pm)Change that to : but also smart short-term business and I might agree. In the long term, that decision cost a lot to GM.
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:15 pm)Tuscany Suites (255 E. Flamingo Road) offers good deals on meeting space. Located 2 blocks East of the Strip behind Bally’s.
Coast To Coast AM held a paranormal convention there recently. Pretty much 2.5 to 3 stars all the way around. Takes care of the basic needs. Complimentary gym behind the pool. Room special rate is $50.
http://www.tuscanylv.com/meetings
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:15 pm)Last time it was just the time/place that Lyle announced, and those who could make it came. I THINK there were even a couple of left coasters who flew in and I know nasaman flew in from Florida. I made it a one-day trip by driving ~4 hours, hanging out there, and driving home. Although I know video hookups are possible, it was really great to be *there* with Lyle, Maximum Bob, the engineering team, and all the Voltiacs. Given enough time, I’d fly or take a bus if VoltNation II is somewhere really distant, but I think that that would still be a thrill. JMO.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:17 pm)8X10 glossy’s available in the lobby folks! (lol)
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:17 pm)#80 kdawg
#81 Jackson
Thank you both very much for the explanation. I was really having a rough go at it. How stupid of me. I’ve been in IT for 25 years, and couldn’t figure out a simple thing like that.
Thanks again.
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:18 pm)Jim in PA said:
Well congrats on your pending new Volt! After the work you’ve done, they’d be crazy not to get you one. I mean, it’s not like they’re giving it to you for free …
Great work Lyle!!! There are approx. 40,000 people on your GM-Volt waiting list. If all of us would deposit 1 dollar we could pay for your personal Volt as a token of appreciation for your hard work on this wonderful site for the last 3 years. – Eugene -
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:20 pm)Let’s not forget that the San Diego accident that triggered the whole thing happened with a 2009 Lexus ES 350. So they might try to spin the thing saying that the problem occurs after a long period of use but it ain’t so.
Your “they must have very impressive testing procedures” comment is contradicted by the facts. They didn’t do an outstanding job in this matter. Unless this was only sarcasm from your part in which case I agree with you.
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:23 pm)Nicely said! Feelings that are shared by almost all of us, but not voiced nearly often enough!
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:26 pm)There is a HUGE poker tourney there that week/weekend. I don’t know if that matters or not (I don’t get out much)(g).
Thanks,
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:29 pm)One more time for the geographically challenged: Kapuskasing is nowhere near the “artic” [sic]. It’s about 2000km (1200mi) south of the Arctic Circle. It’s closer to Atlanta than to the Arctic. Sure, it’s cold and remote, but nowhere close to Arctic conditions.
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:31 pm)Excellent idea, but if I was GM I’d rather credit $100 for each Volt sold to a list member. That would get them sales, get Lyle a Volt (or two), AND get US some Volts!
Personally, I think it’d be much better PR, er, I mean, a nicer show of gratitude, if GM just GAVE Lyle his Volt.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:39 pm)That’s a big factor. Just tossed it out for grins. Stayed at Tuscany once. Liked the informal atmosphere. Low cost 24hr dinner. Even won a little at the tables. Pretty good combination.
BTW: Just 1/2 block away is some of the best BBQ you’ll find anywhere. Terrific beer brewed on site. http://www.ellisislandcasino.com/Restaurant.htm
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:44 pm)#42
Too true, alas.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:46 pm)No Rant No Sale
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:52 pm)I bet the ads on this page have paid for a portion of a future Volt.
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:53 pm)It’s 1432.14 miles to Atlanta from Kapuskasing, not 1200 miles.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:54 pm)Its Vegas.. there’s always a huge *something* going on.
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:55 pm)You’re just a *wealth* of travel info! (LOL).
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (1:56 pm)95% of the posts here over the last 2 years are positive. And visitors have stated that the other 5% (excluding course and vulgar trolling) are a good balance. Some of the better points and statements have been made in the contrary. Lately it’s been getting hard to tell if this is still America we live in. USA is much better than USSA.
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:00 pm)I know that if *I* was selling expensive, bleeding edge technology, my first priority demographic would be “People known to go on rants”. Uh, not.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:03 pm)The coldest place on earth (excluding Antarctica), is South of the Arctic Circle
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oymyakon
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:04 pm)I’m sure the Volt will find it’s way to Canada and California. I just hope the Federal Government doesn’t decide the $7500 tax credit is part of the spending freeze. Things have been changing mighty quick.
=D~
-18
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:17 pm)(click to show comment)
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:18 pm)I’m pretty sure that they will be available there sooner than central Penna. Personally, I’ll be glad when I hear that the wheels are touching down – regardless of where they are. I just want to see the Volt be a success, and gradually become as common as Malibu’s on GM dealer lots.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
-16
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:23 pm)(click to show comment)
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:23 pm)That’s a VERY long way from Atlanta (lol).
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
+5
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:25 pm)hi EG #110 …..
I think you’ve misjudged the regulars. It’s my belief that this car must be made. And that it’s much more important that GM Voltec engineering grabs a strong foothold in society. Than it is for me to actually get to own one. There’s more altruism here than you realize.
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:34 pm)You have a wicked good memory Tag.
I am in Vegas for the WSOP starting in late June through the 10th (maybe longer). I’m going to do event (54) on July 1st/2nd that runs 4 days as a warm-up, then the Main Event (57) that starts on the 5th.
I actually have a post on it from a couple days ago up at the ‘fantabulous’ Voltnation.com blog site, if you interested you can read it there:
http://statik.voltnation.com/2010/01/27/just-159-days-to-the-main-event/
/votes for Vegas to be the venue for any theoretical Independence Day-Volt Nation II event
(Dave, the Tuscany Suites is a little far for me to hoof to the Rio, heeh. Although I’m still not sure where I am going to land yet.)
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:38 pm)Please, DO NOT RUSH IT. It is a money-loser as is and demand will be limited due to the price. Start sales, sell a limited number, learn the issues (there are ALWAYS issues no matter how much you test before selling them.), and fix the issues that arise.
Meanwhile, battery prices will (hopefully) come down a bit and gas prices will go up a bit. I’d rather have this succeed slowly rather than fail quickly. Let it be a ‘halo car’ for the first few years.
Just look at the Prius . . . it sold very small numbers and at a loss initially. It takes time to build a success. Rome wasn’t built in a day.
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:44 pm)I think Johnny sang it best here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDSN1F72QU4&feature=youtube_gdata
Tagamet reminds me of the guy who ends up on his rear, saying “Oh dear.”
But it really does help to have someone ready to throw up yellow and red flags even if it seems like no one is listening, so thanks go to him.
It helps to keep politics, political leaders and controversies out of it.
Even if you’re politely ascribing credit to quarters and people where many others may not see it due.
The Volt is now like a “folk song of our land.”
And we come to gm-volt for the ongoing concert… not for politics.
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:51 pm)Out of post question :
Was going trough http://www.hybridcenter.org/hybrid-scorecard/
which says Environmental Score for prius is 9.8 where the 2 mode hybrid system is 5.0. The reason they say is
With a 44 percent reduction in global warming emissions compared with the Matrix, the Prius gets the largest percent reduction of global warming emissions of any other hybrid on the market. The smog-forming emissions performance of the Prius is very good, earning it an EPA air pollution score of 9.5. These two factors give the Prius an Environmental Score of 9.8, the strongest Environmental Score of all the hybrids currently on the market
For 2 mode the comments are :
With a 24 percent reduction in global warming emissions compared with the conventional Tahoe 2WD, the Tahoe Hybrid 2WD is in the middle of the overall hybrid pack.
And after this they say : But given the fact that GM was able to squeeze a 21 percent reduction in global warming emissions out of its Saturn Vue Hybrid—a vehicle that does not even have the battery capacity to truly be a hybrid vehicle—the Tahoe’s impressive two-mode, full hybrid drivetrain could have been used to bring far more to the table as the first full-sized hybrid SUV.
So question: Is HSD more efficient or 2 mode because as per this comparison HSD brings 44% improvement and 2 mode brings 25% improvement. HSD is low cost compared to 2 mode.
Comments ?
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (2:56 pm)Nicely written:
http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/green/Review__Chevy_Volt_to_hit_the_roads_soon-83235917.html
@ Dave G: No, I can’t change my avatar as you suggest. I respect intellectual property.
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:05 pm)… well, your ‘handle’ / ‘screen name’ is half right.
… does this count as “mostly” positive?
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:05 pm)What they OUGHT to do is lend him a late-model PPV to use and review for the time being.
And then, when his shiny brand new, production model Volt is ready, complete with engraved platinum “Founders Edition” nameplate, they should fly him to Detroit to PERSONALLY hand him the keys and give him a BIG thank-you party!
After that, Maximum Bob* could take him up for some dogfighting
* = a term used only with affection, mind you.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:09 pm)#119
Hah, you beat me to it. +1 This is showing up on the initial page of the MSN search site at the moment as well.
Note the paragraph where the GM person says that the 40 mile AER is “conservative”, and that drivers not will find it difficult to exceed it. I am not making this up. Check it out for yourselves. Big news, if true.
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:13 pm)Hi statik #115 …
Understood, sounds like you have a great week planned for July. Get ready for those 105 degree Vegas afternoons.
Thanks for the spirited chat all. And thank you Mr. Whitacre for the positive news. See you tomorrow.
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:15 pm)Completely off topic. I mean to say way off topic.
Here is a nice application that can use an advance Li-ion battery.
And as an added bonus, it comes with an off switch.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/TECH/02/01/sex.robot/index.html?hpt=T2
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:22 pm)Wow, I don’t know where you found a song that fits this site so well!
I definitely think that your metaphor at the end nails it.
And BTW, being the Hall Monitor around here is not a job for the faint of heart (or the thin skinned – lol). In relative terms though, it was much harder being the lonely Optimist here in the earlier days of the site. Nowadays, most people believe that the Volt will actually BE produced – that used to be a point of contention.
Thanks for the smile.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:25 pm)It’s a modified limited
hangroll out!Hee hee. Just kidding.
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:26 pm)Far from it, but I remember being disappointed that that proposed date wasn’t good for you. Just looking out for my buddy!
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:28 pm)And you grumble when I “bite” the trolls (lol)
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:29 pm)#124
Well if these guys can take pre-orders, I don’t see why GM can’t take them for the Volt, LOL.
+3
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:31 pm)AHEM, and haw long have *I* been saying that? (g).
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:38 pm)#130
Well, as our resident optimist, I would expect no less from you, LOL. +1
You may have noticed that many others have seen the 40 miles as sort of a best case scenario, which will not be routinely seen in the real world. Sort of like “Your mileage may differ” or “Professional driver on closed course”. This seems like a pretty strong statement coming from GM.
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:39 pm)It needs to be somewhere on the web to link it to this forum.
Feb 1st, 2010 (3:56 pm)Agreed.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
+6
Feb 1st, 2010 (4:09 pm)Sorry for any duplications. I have not read the whole thread.
A few notes:
1) If I paid someone to create a list of customers for my $40,000 product and he got me 51,000 on that list (so far), I would think that would be worth paying him $40,000 to do that. If half those people buy, that’s a BILLION dollars in sales! (That’s not a lot of money in GM’s world but it would look like a lot in my checking account.) GM, you’re crazy if you don’t let Lyle “test” a Volt for a few years and not charge him for the valuable service he is providing.
2)GM, hang on to that extra billion you were going to pay to get the Volt out earlier and use it for technician training and for extra special warranty response as those unknowable service events occur.
3) Lyle, I am looking forward to reading your reports as you drive your Volt. You have been a great fan of the car but also quite honest in your assessments of any shortcomings. Your log will probably sell more cars than GM could do with their own advertising for a while.
Boohaa!
Go Volt!
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (4:44 pm)I went to my local Buick dealer and considered the new 2010 La Crosse but just couldn’t pull the trigger. Was a very sweet car at around the same price as the Volt. NPNS although I did weep a bit when I stepped out of the La Crosse.
Feb 1st, 2010 (4:50 pm)BTW, is a 40 mile AER the absolute minimum buffer for a range extended EV to work and is li-ion the only usable buffer (can you have more than one)?
Price conscious performance enthusiasts will want to know.
We might as well start talking about the possible multiple congurations of gen II Voltec now.
I’m surprised that someone hasn’t started a site yet for gen II, since gen I is already launching this year.
My first thread would be on the tradeoffs going to an option for (cleaner bio)diesel and a smaller capacity power pack. The working title of that configuration can be the SportsLocomo(tive).
Feb 1st, 2010 (4:59 pm)If you’re a Volt fan, nothing would be finer than to have to wait two years to get one. That would mean that GM sold 70,000 Volts and that there is still a waiting list. How cool would that be?
The buying public can be pretty fickle, however. What captures the public’s imagination isn’t always what we expect. Let’s just hope that this car is as exciting in real life as it is on paper.
Feb 1st, 2010 (5:03 pm)Given that we’re still speculating about the remaining unknowns of the Gen I Volt, isn’t it a tad premature to start speculating about Gen II?
I’m not sure what you mean about 40 AER being a “minimum”. There’s been a lot of talk about interest in different AER’s so people could choose a 20 AER, but still have the backup Voltec engine to kick in if needed. Obviously, the 40 AER was chosen because it will eliminate the need for the gas engine for over three quarters of the driving public – and still be *relatively* affordable.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (5:04 pm)Good man! Hang on for the VOLT!
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (5:19 pm)Rashiid #124
When you go off topic you really mean off topic.
I will not,will not ,will not get into my Volt savings to get one of those (ladies).
Feb 1st, 2010 (5:29 pm)… just not Toyota floor mats.
Feb 1st, 2010 (5:47 pm)Hi Unni @ 118, the only factor not in your comparison seems the ability of the 2 mode to handle more torque. Hence we see the 2 mode in trucks and the HSD in sedans. Note that the HSD does not provide all that much improvement in the 450h, reducing emissions by around 23%.
Feb 1st, 2010 (5:47 pm)What unknowns? When yours will be registered in your state and sitting in your driveway after you purchase it seems the only question left to ask about the Volt and that’s a question that consumers have to work out with dealers and for themselves.
Thanks for the rest. Apparently the topic on cheaper, smaller AERs has already been beaten to death and we’ll just have to wait and see what next beyond the Volt gen I. I suspect it’s never too early to speculate on GM’s next success.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (5:49 pm)Thou doth protest too much
Feb 1st, 2010 (5:54 pm)This is the paragraph that sounds most interesting for today’s topic:
“It will begin slowly, making preproduction models that will be evaluated for their quality and provided as test models for journalists and fleet customers through the Summer and Fall.”
I sure hope Lyle’s on the list for one of the summer Volts.
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (6:04 pm)#138
40 may not be the absolute minimum, but there is an AER size that -does- become too small to really justify EREV.
Due to the lag time, and power fade issue, an EREV will need a significant amount of battery reserve post EV operation. This will be a matter of testing, but I suggest the ability to run full tilt for 5 minutes.
Taking the case of a 100kW motor and 50kW engine, a battery reserve of ~4.2 kWh is required for post EV operation.
A certain top level will always be required to maintain battery life. I would suggest maximum SOC to be 85% of total.
Using a figure of 5 kWh per Mile, a 20 AER battery size would be required to be ~9.6 kWh versus the 40 AER of ~14.4 (Again this is my example case, not the Volt in specific).
In the above example, moving form 40 AER to 20 AER reduced capability of an important factor by 50%, yet -at best- reduced cost only 33%. In reality, due to the nearly identical packing/BMS requirements, the 40 AER –> 20 AER will likely only reduce Battery costs by ~20%. This would likely shrink as battery raw material/component costs reduce in cost versus the fixed costs of installation, etc.
If we transpose this result to the Volt, If a $40,000 volt gets 40 AER, then the 20 AER Volt would likely still cost ~$37,500, yet get significantly worse gas mileage. IE, the Honda Insight Mistake. The American Consumer (and Consumers at large apparently) are willing to pay more to get a better value. This doesn’t even address the issue of more wear on the smaller battery being requested to provide the same output power as the large battery.
As a result, I actually expect as time goes forward -larger then 40- AER will be more common than -Smaller than 40- AER. The “40″ number of course could turn out to be 35 or 30 (or 45), but I seriouslu doubt we will see EREV less than 30 AER. I think thats a market better servered by the 100 AER BEV.
Feb 1st, 2010 (6:06 pm)I’m kinda curious about the mpg in CS mode and the size of the gas tank. That would fill in the answer to the range/tankful question.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (6:17 pm)I hope Tony Posawatz was just speaking to the audience in this article. I respect Mr. Posawatz’ contributions to the Volt and have enjoyed his comments about the project, but I think someone should send him the results of the poll Lyle conducted here a couple of posts ago. While the Volt is a “green” car and most people will factor that into their decision. Energy independence from oil and all of the associated benefits that come with this independence is BY FAR the number one reason to buy the Volt that people that come to this site voted for. IMO, it would only be higher in the general public.
Yes, the Volt is a “green” but it is not only a green car. First and foremost in the consumer’s mindset it is an ENERGY INDEPENDENCE CAR!!! This is their biggest hook and they need to emphasize it big time.
Feb 1st, 2010 (6:22 pm)Fair enough. Those seem like valid questions, if somewhat pointless when most driving is done within it’s AER.
mpg in CS mode > minimum required to be considered reasonably efficient for mainstream buyers of full performance vehicles
total average range, including tankful > my last full gasser pickup truck, which was 200 miles
Good enough for me.
Feb 1st, 2010 (6:31 pm)Agreed, they should do this for Lyle.
/Gotcha Mike-o-Vick
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (6:35 pm)“It’s all about testing.”
I think this confirms that GM is betting its future on Voltec. It would be disastrous for anything short of a great reputation. It is monumentally important that this vehicle will be the most successful car ever introduced by GM. GM is testing the hell out of this car, their life depends on it!
Feb 1st, 2010 (6:37 pm)I believe the roles reverse if (emmissions cubic foot savings)/mile were used which means more to the environment.
Feb 1st, 2010 (6:50 pm)Hey Tag must have been a slow day at the office huh?? You sure got some air time on this thread but GOOD airtime…. I ain’t complaining
Feb 1st, 2010 (6:54 pm)#140
Maybe there’s a rental market out there? Kind of like the trailer mounted range extender for the BEV. Or maybe the car you rent to go on a trip when it’s out of the BEV’s range. I mean, it must relate to GM-Volt.com in some way or another, or the great R.A. wouldn’t have brought it up. Would he?
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:05 pm)Yep, didn’t have to go to the part-time job today. I only find out the day before if I’m needed the next day – shuttling used cars from dealers to a car auction, or from the auction to the dealers.
I multi-task when I’m “here” though (lol).
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:10 pm)I only grumble when you ‘bite’ for one troll, in particular. Most of the rest still have some entertainment value.
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:13 pm)LOL, it sounds like a clear-cut case of discrimination!
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:23 pm)Great news about simultaneous release, Mr. Whitacre. Thank you.
/need to get a new computer, etc,. this one is 7 years old and is making a new noise. … oh well (g.)
Have fun everyone!
Dan.
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:26 pm)Sarcasm intended… thanks for recognizing it!
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:45 pm)I wonder which desert it’s being tested in?
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:45 pm)The final 10% of testing on the Volt can only be done in the hands of the public. Here’s an example:
My wife is a hard worker. She doesn’t drink. She doesn’t smoke. She likes to stay busy. When she goes to the gym. It’s an hour on the treadmill. Okay, you get the picture.
Well, she likes to clean my truck (without asking me first). One day I opened my hood to check the oil level. My NEW looking engine was trashed with mud. Looked like I ran the Baja 500. I thought, “What the heck happened?”. Spark plug wires were spotted with gray. Under hood insulation was muddy.
So I asked her about it. She replied, “It’s been a long time since you cleaned your radiator. I washed it for you”.
I didn’t get angry because what can you do really. I asked her to please not clean my radiator any more.
I spray flushed my engine compartment and hand wiped the visible parts back to clean condition. Used WD-40 on a rag to bring the wires and hoses back to life. This is what can happen in the real world.
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (7:56 pm)Dave K.
Quick!! Seal & lock that engine compartment!.(lol)
Per Volt,
As reliable as OnStar is, maybe Britta would have a nice conversation with here that you are the one who OnStar can unlock the hood for.
(If it misses from the wires having WD40 which can weaken the insulation, and, there is an arc at places where the wires touch metal of any kind, then, alas, you may need a good set of factory- quality plug wires.)
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:09 pm)DaveK,
Not sure it was a good idea to clean your plug wires with WD-40. WD-40 will attack polymers and rubber and makes it turn hard and brittle.
Well, at least they look nice for a while…
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:10 pm)Well, you will have to go back in time and start a Volt blog plus it will have to be equal to what Lyle has done here for so long. Congratulations, Lyle.
Happy trails to you ’til we meet again.
P.S. I will fly to New York City just to get a chance to test drive your Volt.
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:13 pm)Thanks for the tip Dan. No, truck is doing great. This happened about a year ago. And was very careful with the cleaning. Just enough to revive the appearance. Will be looking for tires soon. Considering Goodyear Fuel Max.
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:18 pm)Fan noise?
A good cleaning of the computer can be a life extender for computers. Heat is the number one enemy of computers. If you open your pc you will see mostly HEATSINK on the CPU. It is big for a reason, it wants to get rid of all the heat.
So, cleaning your computer at least once a year (I mean take the sides off and vacuum). One issue with using a vacuum is ESD, but I think the odds of damage are much less then odds of an overheat, so I do it regularly.
Clean the fan. Install your own filter, and your pc will last MUCH longer.
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:18 pm)Hi JEC …
A oil product like WD-40 will not hurt the spark plug wires. I’ve been working in the plastic industry for quite a while. Oil products are fine with other oil products. Dan has a good point on the conductive nature of WD-40. When used in excess.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2283270_clean-spark-plug-wires.html
we digress
=D~
+13
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:22 pm)I hope the community enjoys the new function I had my programmer add to the comments.
Now once a comment achieves more than +10 votes the background becomes yellow, letting it stand out.
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:23 pm)We’ll be rooting for you statik. Good luck!
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:26 pm)Good idea Lyle. I thought someone was using a [text/yellow] command of some sort.
And congrats on the Volt consideration. You’re a great example of what’s right in America.
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:29 pm)DaveK,
I learned something new today. I was told in the past that WD-40 would damage rubber products, and after reading WD-40 website, it is indeed safe on rubber and plastics.
From WD-40:
“What surfaces or materials are OK to use WD-40 on?
WD-40 can be used on just about everything. It is safe for metal, rubber, wood and plastic. WD-40 can be applied to painted metal surfaces without harming the paint. Polycarbonate and clear polystyrene plastic are among the few surfaces on which to avoid using a petroleum-based product like WD-40.”
I stand corrected!
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:31 pm)The GMers have been clear on the 300 miles after the 40 mile EV range. Earlier they suggested the gas tank would hold 8 gallons. That might have changed BUT they have been clear that the mileage would be better than “conventional cars in its class” which happens to fit the calcluated 37 MPG pretty well.
Seems like a pretty good bet.
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:32 pm)I noticed that yesterday, but I thought it was my medication.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:35 pm)I know that they were *shooting* for 300 mile range, and know that 8 gals had been *hinted* at….
I’m still betting on higher CS mpg.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:36 pm)I’m betting on Cool Whip.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:37 pm)Goodyear tires are excellent. The original ones on my 05 Element lasted 48,000 miles. Whe going in two years ago to get replacements, the quote was $680. (yikes). Instead, I chose the cheapest Goodyears the tire outlet had, and paid $450.
They have 42,000 on them right now, and, from the remaining tread, I’d say I’ll get the full 48,000 again, yet paid $230 less. (Go figure, literally).
Volt tires will be a special Goodyear type for low rolling resistance.
I wonder what there might be as an advertised benefit for fuel savings?
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:40 pm)You got me on that one! (LOL).
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:45 pm)Interesting cite. I think the article may have been moved here:
http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/green/Review__Chevy_Volt_to_hit_the_roads_soon-83235917.html
I’m not sure why GM is so enamored with the “green story” either. On suggestion, maybe it was Dake G’s, was essentially that if 99% of your product portfolio are larger vehicles, making oil dependence a big issue might not be the most judicious strategic approach.
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:48 pm)They’ve been clear on this for maybe the last two-three months. The big one for me was Posawatz’s interview at the battery plant opening when he mentioned it several times. Ditto for Farrah in his interviews a bit earlier. I’m thinking 300 miles is a wrap.
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:48 pm)Hey JEC at 166,
It’s a laptop, and, it has been really patient with me for hauling it around to all the shops where I update their Genisys scan tools.
(Hostile environments with really bad building wiring and spikes from the 10 to 20 horsepower shop air compressors kicking on and off).
The fan is the only moving part excluding keys. Possibly the bearings are wearing out. (I sure don’t like to spend four weeks redoing a computer system for what I need for it to do. And, only two more days on this Norton 360, which has been an entire year of irritation with that pesky reminder to back up my proprietary stuff with them. I want that to go away too.)
(whatever happens ~ happens I guess).
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:49 pm)Take the “once a year cleaning” rule and divide by the number of cats you have. Two cats=6 months, 4 cats=3 months, etc. Just a thought.
/Hi Harry
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:49 pm)Cool. I like it.
Rashiid only needs one more +1 to put him in YELLOW. Come on, some one push him over…
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:51 pm)So maybe it’s a smaller gas tank. I guess we’ll see soon.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:52 pm)haha!
Yes the cat factor should be calculated in. Also the equation needs to weight in number of kids, dogs, and other hairy animals.
If you have not opened the case on your computer in a few years, be prepared for a big, dusty surprise!
+1
Feb 1st, 2010 (8:53 pm)Continuing to digress.. Is WD40 really an oil. It also has some properties as a solvent. I know it removes greese and can do harm in some instances.
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:00 pm)What # post is Rashiid’s? I can’t find it.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:06 pm)If it is a GM truck, GM wiring and looming design keeps those wires away from metal if the original factory set is installed, because the lengths are exactly the same, and, you don’t have any spare slack touching any metal anywhere.
WD40 has silicone in it. (Very deadly to oxygen sensors and catalytic converters if sprayed into the intake.) Plug wires have many different types of insulation, most consisting of silicone type of rubber. But, if the wire has oil-swelled, then, if it is loomed in the oringinal GM factory looms, it might be OK for a short while, as long as you don’t have a miss. (Just watch slowly and closely at the wires in really dark night conditions to see if you have any arc or a “corona” all along the wire.) If so, time for original quality wires, as the energy would rather ionize accross moist air and dirt down along the side of a wire than across a spark plug gap that is partially insulated with insulating fuel atoms at about one third of an atmosphere (and especially if the resistors inside the plugs are older than 70,000 miles, even for Iridiums).
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:09 pm)hi nuke #185 …
Thinking I may have started us down a slippery slope.
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:11 pm)Fantastic! I’m happy for you.
I can’t wait to read your comments on it.
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:28 pm)Thought it was a way to get a yellow Volt!
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:37 pm)So Lyle and Tagamet will be getting new Volts at the Fourth of July VoltNation. I wonder who will be getting the Red Volt?
HeHeHe
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:39 pm)I like the way you think! (lol).
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:53 pm)I have got to say Lyles buddy Ed is doing a pretty good job of keeping my interest. My wife says no new cars, I say I am going to trade the HHR for a Volt. She just gives me the look! So I am sorry I missed VoltNation I, I was scheduled to work that weekend. Hopefully I may be able to make the next, as long as it is in the Northeast. Maybe multiple VoltNations would be called for?
GM once gave Oprah 40 cars to give away…
I wonder If they will do something like that again? I rather doubt it. I figure I will get my Volt by Christmas, just which Christmas is the question.
Feb 1st, 2010 (9:59 pm)Yeah, but Oprah is rich (lol).
Whichever Christmas it is that we get our Volt’s, it’ll be a great one!
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:02 pm)Congratulation Lyle, you deserve it. Which color do you want?
I really hope GM learn from his past mistakes.
Lyle, you should read carefully the last section titled “Kris Trexler’s EV1 is at the Peterson Museum” http://www.evnut.com/ev1_museum.htm
I will wait to “buy” (not rent !) my Volt one of these days in the future…
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:05 pm)Very True, my wife told me I could get a used one?
Cheers
+2
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:07 pm)Lyle, you’re a Great American. Personally, I hope you enter politics on behalf of the American dream. This website has helped American industry, using American workers, take the lead on an American vision of a new automotive future. Even Europe with endless $5 to $6 per gallon of gas didn’t make the leap. What you are doing to keep our young men and women out of the desert serving oil barons is well worth mentioning.
Good to have a final post of you driving off into the sunset in a new Chevrolet Volt.
CHEVY VOLT: American-made, American-FUELED.
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:14 pm)Wow, “The Look” and “The Stall”! She must really know how much you love the Volt!
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:32 pm)Let’s hope that 2016 is the year of the Auto Trade Express used EV ad. It’s great to watch this chapter of automotive history unfold. If Nissan follows through with plans to flood the market. We’ll see plenty of these in the used section. A used Volt will be hard to come by.
=D~
Feb 1st, 2010 (10:49 pm)*Maybe* people will trade in the Gen I’s (or sell them), when Gen II hits the streets. I won’t be at all surprised if the Gen I’s retain a lot of their original value. If the Gen II’s are scarce, the Gen I’s might even appreciate in value. God Willing, the Gen I’s will be a collector’s dream, because of their historic value.
Just getting to watch this all play out is really something to appreciate.
Thanks, Lyle.
Be well,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The ***VOLTS’** * Wheels On The Road!!**********NPNS
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:11 pm)That Rocks! Your deserve to be on the list Lyle. Nice!
Feb 1st, 2010 (11:28 pm)That’s awesome Lyle. Glad to see that you are going to be one of the first people to get your hands on your own Volt! GM wouldn’t be too smart if they didn’t. Lyle will probably be one of the Volt’s best salesmen in the next year or so probably. I bet he’ll be interviewed every now and then by reporters when they see him driving around in his shiny new Volt in the Big Apple.
I sure hope that GM is still working very hard on the Volt. They gotta get it right. I want the Volt to be a really good all around car that just happens to have a new type of powertrain.
The Volt is actually getting a bit over-hyped, so they need to make sure the roll out and the PR and all that is optimal. Once the (hopefully good) third-party reviews come in, I bet people will be flocking to the GM dealerships to at least check it out. Then, maybe they’ll start saving for a big down payment on a Volt if they can’t afford one right away.
+2
Feb 2nd, 2010 (12:04 am)Thanks Van and Koz
Feb 2nd, 2010 (1:58 am)First and foremost , Never eat at a newly opened restaurant if you want good service and food and Never ever Buy a first year production car if you are looking for a bug free no issue vehicle its just not going to happen! Just ask the 86 cross-fire Vett people.(85 New plant BG KY new tech&engine)
I totally agree that the Volt was the making of a car that could change the way Americans think of elec. cars and brings eleccars out of the dark ages i.e.. battery Tech and into the main stream . Think 74 pong game ,brick cell phone etc etc… We are possible on the the edge of a new generation of travel. All the testing over a WHOLE year on 100 units , is no replacement for 10,000 to 100,000 real world testing units . So please buy a Volt we need you to buy them , Just go into the purchase knowing that you are a guinea pig and that there is a huge chance that technical problems will pop up and will have to be ironed out over time and 1,000′s of volt sold.
Lyle Enjoy your new Volt !!!!
Feb 2nd, 2010 (2:18 am)Holy Cow!
Maybe I’m a selfish jerk, but what I got out of this was “everywhere simultaneously”.
One Volt allocated to Don K Chevrolet in Whitefish Montana please! I will be speaking with the owner tomorrow to make sure my name is on it!
Contrats to you Lyle… You really do deserve it!
Feb 2nd, 2010 (4:06 am)Been coming here since near the beginning,but this is my first post. Lyle, it’s good to see you getting one. Now all we need to do is get Tagamet one, Nasaman one(to make up for the plug-in Vue loss), and Statik one(for all his positive comments and wonderfully positive attitude towards everyone here:-) ).
+1
Feb 2nd, 2010 (4:39 am)Congratulations Lyle, it must feel like your Birthday.
I’m not much of a poet and here’s the proof !
When the history of the Volt is written,
one man’s name should never be forgotten.
He pushed the vision of Bob and Ed,
and blogging fans gave him much cred.
He brought good news day in day out,
while GM toiled on their star Volt throughout.
Yes his name is Lyle, as you may have guessed.
He’s on the new Volt list, we’re all impressed.
Feb 2nd, 2010 (6:34 am)This is a nice feature you added, Lyle.
I wonder if there is some value going the other way.
For instance, if someone achieves a -20, the comment get deleted. That might help rid this site of trolls.
Feb 2nd, 2010 (7:18 am)The trolls should be offered a Volt demo drive in 2010.
BTW: What’s the minus score record? Something like -45?
=D~
Feb 2nd, 2010 (10:40 am)Fankly, it smacks a little of jingoism, fear mongering and xenophobia, so ya, it’d probably play well with some folks.
Well, then those folks are in for a pleasant surprise in the intrinsic performance and luxury department. No more penalty boxes and hery jerky slow off the line vehicles needed to be independent.
You think that intrinsic performance and luxury don’t matter to mainstream Americans?
Folks are going to want to know if leather seats are an option on a 40k vehicle, including the Volt. It’s ok, they’re green, because that’s one less cow damaging riparian areas.
/remove tongue in cheek
Feb 2nd, 2010 (4:41 pm)Lyle,
What color are you going to order for your Volt?
Eugene
Feb 11th, 2010 (5:20 pm)What are the chances that GM will use your waiting list? I’m in the 30,000 range.
Frank
Apr 5th, 2010 (6:24 am)[...] fact, I had the chance to discuss this directly with Mr. Whitacre myself and he confirmed the plan. He and the board even offered up to a billion dollars to try to get the car out early en masse, [...]