[ad#post_ad]As we move closer to the Volt's launch date, besides pricing, people are beginning to wonder whether the Volt will be sold only, leased only, or both. Nissan has announced pricing for the electric LEAF and has also announced the lease price.

Recently a GM-Volt commentator wrote about he following observation he had made, calling it "breaking news" that GM would only be leasing the Volt:

I just received my GM Card bill, and it included a notice that we WILL NOT BE ABLE TO APPLY GM CARD EARNINGS TO LEASE A VOLT for the first year, i.e., until November 2011. Then they go on to say that “as of November 2011, you will be able to apply your GM Card earnings to the Chevy Volt.” What caught my attention was the use of the word LEASE in the first year (no mention of BUY), then ambiguous reference to the second year and beyond (no distinction whether LEASE or BUY).
I pointed this out to GM Volt strategic marking manger John Hughes.

"I wouldn't read to much into the note from the card," replied Hughes.  "There will be both purchase and lease options to acquire a Volt when it goes on sale."

GM has said it wasn't expecting the car to compete with the LEAF, considering the two entities as occupying completely different segments.  Pricing thus should'nt be compared either.

"I (am) excited about other EV entries joining us in the vehicle electrification movement," said Hughes.  "It will take different types of EV's at different price points to serve the varied needs of consumers just as there are SUV's at various sizes and price points."

GM will apparently not be releasing pricing in May as was first expected.  Rather Hughes says, "we'll have quite a bit more to talk about later this summer."

I aksed Hughes if he thought becasue Nissan has already released its pricing scheme and pre-order process that it puts them in some way ahead.

"I don't agree that Nissan is out in front," he said.  "Think about it, there is little for a consumer to do but continue to wait."

"Its very important that we deliver a quality experience and that we, our dealers, field teams digital systems,.... are prepared," he added.
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