We thought California, Michigan, and Washington DC were going to be the only initial Chevrolet Volt launch markets, but apparently GM had other plans in mind.
Today in a speech in Austin Texas, GM CEO Ed Whitacre announced that New York and Texas will join the other three states as initial Chevy Volt launch markets.
He also announced that New Jersey and Connecticut would be included in the first launch wave in early 2011, bringing the total first Volt states to seven. For New York and Texas, Volts will only be available in New York City and the city of Austin in 2010, with the remainder of those states getting allocations in 2011.
GM said it was the intense interest they were seeing that prompted the inclusion of these additional markets, not to mention that Volt is designed and engineered to handle those more challenging climates.
“We can add markets as diverse as Texas and New York because the Chevrolet Volt can handle both urban commuting and longer trips, in Austin summers and Manhattan winters,” Whitacre said. “The Volt can be your primary vehicle, giving you the freedom to drive gas-free without the stress of planning every trip around the battery’s charge level.”
“Chevrolet is extending the Volt launch to additional states because of strong customer interest and our confidence in all aspects of the vehicle and battery,” added Tony DiSalle, Chevrolet Volt marketing director.
To celebrate this terrific announcement (I’m a New Yorker) GM will drive a Volt from Austin Texas straight to New York City, a 1776 mile trip that would be considerably more tricky in a pure electric car.
GM is calling this trip the Freedom Drive, representing both freedom from oil and freedom from range anxiety.
“This drive is a demonstration of the freedom the Volt will provide customers – freedom to drive where you want, when you want,” said DiSalle. “Whether you are driving 50 miles or 1,750 miles, the Volt is the only electric vehicle that can be a family’s primary car.”
The Volt will take the last leg of the journey from New Jersey to New York, stopping briefly along the New Jersey Turnpike to pick up none other than yours truly as I accompany Volt vehicle line director Tony Posawatz for the home stretch. I will also be able to asses and experience firsthand in a nearly complete car the true performance of the Volt in real-world world highway driving, hopefully putting recent rumors to rest..
We will arrive at Pier 92 in New York City for an exclusive July 4th celebration. The celebration will include the Volt and members of the Volt team. The highlight of the party will of course be the famous Macy’s fireworks celebration over the Manhattan skyline. This waterfont pier location will be a perfect front row seat to experience the show.
In appreciation for our longstanding support, GM if offering GM-Volt readers free exclusive invitations to the party which will begin at 5:30 PM. There will be food drinks, friends and family are welcome.
The first 70 GM-Volt readers and their guests who registered here got exclusive free invitations to the event:
[UPDATE: CAPACITY FILLED]
On its way from Austin to New York the Volt will also stop off in Little Rock, AR on July 1; Nashville, TN and Roanoke, VA on July 2; Washington, D.C. and Frederick, MD on July 3; Philadelphia, PA and finally, New York City on July 4.
If you can’t make it to New York, enthusiasts in the Washington DC area can meet up at Criswell Chevrolet in Gaithersburg, MD on July 3rd. The time will be from 2PM to 4PM. There will be food and drinks and opportunity to test drive a Volt (confirmed).
Independence from oil is about to begin.
See you there!
This entry was posted on Thursday, July 1st, 2010 at 12:15 pm and is filed under Launch, Marketing, Volt Nation. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.
+13
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:23 pm)This is all great news! I’m on the wrong coast but for those who can make it the party in NY seems absolutely wonderful.
A couple of good developments. One is that management is thinking about demand. That’s a good thing. Second is that they are adopting Tagamet’s idea of tying July 4th to the Volt roll out. That’s another good thing. Third they are moving on from the “Volt is a green car” to a more flexible “Volt is a gas free car”. This new positioning allows for either a green or a national security message.
Jealous of Lyle for the drive with Posawatz. He seems like he would be super company. Good for you Lyle.
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:24 pm)“a 1776 mile trip that would be considerably more tricky in a pure electric car.”
Great marketing.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:28 pm)And the greeeaaaat Toyota recalls another slew of cars.
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN0112238520100701
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:31 pm)Ed poised to make the official announcement (link on previous item)
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:31 pm)“Whether you are driving 50 miles or 1,750 miles, the Volt is the only electric vehicle that can be a family’s primary car.”
——————————————————-
That’s what we love about the Volt!
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:32 pm)Great news Connecticut and New Jersey are in the next wave early 2011. Brightened my day!
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:33 pm)SWEET!! Okay so I have to ask… Does this mean all New York state, or just NYC area? (I’m in Syracuse)
And if I wasn’t going out of state for the fourth, I would totally take some of those free tickets!
join thE REVolution
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:37 pm)Congratulations to all in those market areas. And I suspect that some people in Pennsylvania are close enough to benefit as well.
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:42 pm)That should mean they are planning to make MORE than 10K Volts in the initial production!
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:47 pm)“GM said it was the intense interest they were seeing that prompted the inclusion of these additional markets, not to mention that Volt is designed and engineered to handle those more challenging climates.”
**** GREAT!!!! Does this mean GM will be building a LOT MORE VOLTS to meet this demand “right out of the blocks”??? These early buyers will be great sales people to help increase demand even more.
A very exciting day and tomorrows announcements promise to be even better.
I would love to be one of the 70 but NY is too far.
The “freedom drive” is a great way increase demand even more! It is just like the early days of the autos with cross country trips to prove viability.
This trip will be a great proof the VOLT is the “better” electric car with the extended range availability for todays market.
+7
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:48 pm)First, I have to agree with DonC, this is a great way to distinguish the Volt from all other contenders.
Second, thanks to Lyle for all his hard work and dedication. Without his efforts, some of these incredible events might not happen.
And last, a special thank you to all the folks at GM for extending an invitation to us, and for their diligent efforts to make the Volt a reality.
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:51 pm)When Ed pulls up at pier 92 and hands you the keys to this Volt, be sure to ask how many gallons of gas he used (and the number of recharges he did) to drive 1776 miles!
No, can’t make it on the Fourth. I wish all those present on pier 92 a safe trip and a wonderful experience.
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:52 pm)I’m in Austin, so I called my nearest dealer and gave them my contact info for when they have more information about ordering the Volt.
Austin Energy, our local utility, is a big supporter of renewable energy and plug-in vehicles.
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:53 pm)I’m still waiting for confirmation on how many our dealership will get. My General Manager did tell me we will start taking deposits next week, whether or not the official price has been released yet.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:54 pm)LeoK (If I remember correctly from Karl Chervolet) Any additional information about CT dealers that will part of this first wave? Will there be a handful of dealers selected or are all CT dealers going to be able to get Volts?
-26
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:55 pm)(click to show comment)
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:56 pm)Good for you, Lyle!!!
So I guess you will be getting one of the first Volts!!!!
Now, GM just has to let the rest of us know when we will be able to buy a Volt in our local areas.
Go GM! Go GM Volt Team! Go GM Volt Manufacturing Team!
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (12:56 pm)Coolness! I thought my home state of Texas (and Whitacre’s btw) would be left out in the cold until 2012.
This creates a really good chance that I can get a Gen1 Volt the first part of next year!
I’m stoked!!
/it’d be really cool if we could get the allocation numbers by dealer, but, that’s probably too much to ask.
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:01 pm)Lyle, slight correction to your post.
I just called Criswell and their sales manager indicated that you will not be able to test drive it but you can check it out and sit in it. I thought it might be too good to be true but since I haven’t seen one in person yet, I’m still happy. They also have a right of first refusal list with about 5 people on it and I’ll be sure to sign up on Saturday.
Any other Volt fans going to be there at Criswell between 2 and 5?
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:04 pm)Sounds like NYC and ‘burbs.
Whitacre said three areas added NY, Conn. and NJ. I’m sure you could make a trip “downstate” and get on a list.
You have the beginnings of an electric car corridor from Conn. to DC. I’m sure Gm could sell the whole first years allotment just along this route. Call it the freedom from oil highway – hope they plan on ramping up.
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:05 pm)Very happy about the CT part since I’m right over the line in MA.
@garrytman: I believe from speculation in recent articles that dealers that have been through training and are certified to support the Volt will be getting them. I hope most do, though unless they announce greater supply, it may take a while for the dealer to see the value.
My traverse is about due for service so I will be speaking to my dealer within the next few weeks and this will remain on my topic list (as it has for the last couple of years)
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:07 pm)WAY TO GO LYLE! It’s great to see all your hard work paying dividends, and even greater that *we* get to share in the excitement! I submitted as soon as I saw the opportunity in the post, so I’m hoping that the 70 slots haven’t all been scooped up. My Dear One is busy, so I’ll have to settle on bringing my wife. (g).
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
LJGTVWOTR!!
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:08 pm)I may be in a minority here, but these early Volt markets seems to be a little unfair. I have long taken the position that GM’s initial roll out plan should somehow included at least one (1) dealership in each state. In the case of very small or sparsely populated states, one (1) dealership for an area.
My point is to give everyone a chance!
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:08 pm)Excellent idea! Looks like they’ll be able to charge at least once a day.
40miles x 5 days = 200 miles
1776 – 200 / 50 mpg = 31.52 gallons
1776 / 31.52 = 56.345177664974619289340101522843mpg (oops. got a little carried away!)
Wonder if they can get some KwH during lunch and do better?
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:11 pm)From a Canadian perspective, 1776 miles. “1776″ isn’t that your year of independence?
Can’t wait for this car to hit Canadian markets. I think a lot of people here on this site overlook the advantage this car will have in other markets around the world. First off, all estimates of gas cost and electrical cost are based on US prices and what it cost there, while the cost of gas here in Canada is much highter than the US and our electrical cost are much lower. For us Canadians this car will fly off the lots. Can you now imagine what it will be like in Europe? With estimated price of gas between 5-8 dollars a gallon?
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:12 pm)Hey Tag! Long time no see!
If you’ve been reading the posts the last couple days… We really need you here!!
-8
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:13 pm)Honestly, GM’s comment about we can add Texas and New York and sell them there because the Volt can handle the hot (Texas) and cold (New York) weather is really disturbing. Why, you may ask? Simply because with such a childish statement the Rhetorical question becomes, “Then why not sell them everywhere?” This is just PR buzz. Build more Volts GM. You have built a primary car but you keep giving the same BS about electric grids, plug in ready, early adopters, and serious awareness. People in Kentucky or Tennessee or Indiana or wherever couldn’t possible understand this new fangled machine called the volt because it works like a rechargeable battery. We beter stick to the “educated elite”
Hawk
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:14 pm)Just NYC area, however you have been promised that you can purchase your Volt in one of the initial roll-out areas and have it serviced by your local Chevy dealer.
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:14 pm)Um, yes; 1776 on July 4th. Get it?
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:14 pm)Great news all around! The Freedom Drive is a neat idea and will get the word out about the Volt.
Get some good pics or video Lyle!
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:15 pm)Hey ‘Vette Guy,
Any update on that dealer conference you mentioned last week?
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:17 pm)Maan, I wanna go to Manhattan for this Volt 4th of July party.
Hopefully, this event will attract some New York local TV news people. Maybe the big cable news networks like CNN and Fox News will be there too. Hopefully, they’ll interview the Volt development team. Lyle too.
I love the theme of this Chevy Volt 4th of July event ….. FREEDOM.
The 4th of July is a good day on the calendar to learn about the Volt. There’s a lot of people out there that have misconceptions about the Volt. The Volt is a different kind of car but there’s not that many compromises vs. the cars on the road today. Just plug it in when you pull in the driveway after work and maybe buy gasoline for it every couple of months if you need to. Then drive it like any other car … very quietly and without using hardly any gas. Simple as that.
The Volt really is a BIG step towards energy independence for America. The Volt is just the first of many electric cars that are on the way. I’m glad to see that an American company is the first company to build a well thought out electric car (EREV) that (hopefully) will become a huge bestseller all around the world. I hope the batteries get cheaper and GM builds huge factories for the Volt so it gets less expensive over time and everyone can afford one. Then, cars like the Volt should definitely take over the world.
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:18 pm)Holy crap!
Criswell Chevy is across the street. That’s cool.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:19 pm)I think they are trying to get the most out of what they have. If you listened to Ed’s comments this afternoon, GM has paid off the loan portion from US and Canadian governments early, and are working to “make the taxpayer whole.” This likely restricts what ramp up they can do (in terms of basic economics), though I certainly hope that there will be some increase in production to go with the increased number of roll-out sites.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:19 pm)Ed’s speech was of course very up-beat. He said that several plants were going to continue manufacturing in the summer when there would normally be a shut down, because of demand. This is very good news indeed.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:19 pm)For heaven’s sake, they are releasing it in AUSTIN! So much for educated elite! (lol).
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
/hello again all. Couldn’t miss a potential 7/4 announcement
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:20 pm)Better to keep them bunched up at first just in case there are any early growing pains. It’s way easier to fix 50 in one location than 1 in each of 50 locations.
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:21 pm)It’s the best marketing I’ve heard from GM for a really really long time. Hopefully, this is a sign that the overhaul of the marketing department actually made an improvement.
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:22 pm)LOL
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:22 pm)Hey! I resemble that remark!
Actually, Austin is a college town and a very high-tech town. Austin has an extra incentive program for EVs as well.
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:22 pm)I’m not picky. 56 1/3 mpg is plenty good enough for me.
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:24 pm)So how do I get in line for one (I live in NY)?
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:27 pm)I’m really happy for you Lyle. This is like your Olympic opening ceremony and you get to run with the torch.
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:28 pm)I thought that the way I read it, the NYC area would get Volts in 2010, and the entire state would get them in 2011.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:29 pm)What’d be really cool is if they had a special plaque attached to the car saying ‘Collector’s Edition – 1 of 50′. Or something to that effect for the first ones that roll off the line. Maybe 50, maybe 100. Whatever works.
AND. Lyle gets Volt #1!!!
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:33 pm)I would love to see that but perhaps too soon in the marketing timeline to release that information?.. if a couple of weeks after they release the cost of $32k BEFORE the tax credits they announce 60mpg in CS mode then they will own all the blogs for a couple of months.
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:34 pm)Excellent simile!
Tagamet
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:38 pm)AND the ‘High Priust’ is 5mpg lower!
Good times!
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:39 pm)Good point, also if god forbid there were a recall for some reason it wouldn’t have to be a “Nation Wide” recall. They could say, well this is why we did a limited roll-out. It wouldn’t be such a bad thing P.R. wise. Not that I believe there is a chance of a recall with this piece of perfection.
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:41 pm)A 1776 mile drive for independence? Hey GM; I double-dog-dare you to have a George Washington impersonator sticking out of the sunroof as the car drives across the Delaware River.
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:42 pm)If you or any of the other regulars need an invitation I may be able to help.
I missed the 1776 miles when I read Lyle’s post. Yeah, very nice marketing. Very nice.
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:43 pm)Exactly. And just the fact that their widening the initial roll out is a very good sign. To me, it says they realize how in demand this car really is. Hopefully, this means they are a) increasing their planned production, and b) will increase their rollout to the rest of the country much much faster.
-1
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:44 pm)Not to mention the great music scene. Austin is definitely a cultural oasis.
-20
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:46 pm)(click to show comment)
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:49 pm)I thought the exact same thing. Hoping this attracts a lot of good attention to the car and the company.
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:50 pm)I think that would lead to another firing like the Volt Dance did
-16
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:52 pm)(click to show comment)
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:54 pm)I’m hoping that the system wasn’t set up for an immediate confirmation by email, because I didn’t get one (yet). This would be a really SWEET memory, rip tear or bust. (old expression),
Be well,
Tagamet
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:57 pm)LOL
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:58 pm)**** Mild bummer alert. ****
I called Criswell in Gaithersburg, MD to see about signing up for the test drives and the guy I talked to did not seem to think the car will be available for test drives.
Just to look at, investigate and sit in.
I guess even that is a positive, although a mild one.
Dang! I really wanted to test drive the car. Maybe he was wrong.
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (1:59 pm)Double checked by emailing direct and got a reply that we are IN!!!! *What* a thrill! I’m so excited I could just plotz!
Better nap before I stroke out.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
LJGTVWOTR in NYC!!!!
-1
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:01 pm)Sometimes you just gotta take a risk. But think safety, at least have him wear shatterproof glasses
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:06 pm)Great news! Sly marketing! Lucky easterners!
Freedom Drive = End-dependence Rally
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:17 pm)OOps, didn’t notice the name of the other site till I hit the submit button. That wasn’t supposed to happen!
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:25 pm)“Thanks for registering. You will receive an invitation from us shortly that you will need to access the event.”
Has anyone heard anything yet? I’ve heard nothing.
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:26 pm)It is amazing to me how easily people give minus ratings…see post 27. I make fun of GM because they have included two states because of “the volt can handle the weather there” and all of a sudden the post isn’t worth reading? Doesn’t anyone else feel like this is rather insulting. GM should just step up and say, “All right, we are not building enough to meet demand, or we are worried about initial problems so we are limiting where we sell them.” I could handle that a lot better than this underhanded and wishy washy talk they dish out like being plug in ready. I find the truth being told by someone rather refreshing than mindlessly following the person who says what you want to hear. I simply don’t understand why some of you so easily dis a stand on the issue.
Hawk
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:27 pm)We are supposed to get some info at 1:00pm California time… Still holding my breath.
“Stay Tuned”!
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:29 pm)I didn’t hear anything back either…
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:34 pm)Try one of these and it “looks” more like a humorous comment than an angry rant.
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:35 pm)Thanks for the insight. As long as a local Chevrolet dealer can service my Volt, I’m pleased.
Tag, I signed up for tickets too, might change my travel plans to make it to the event. Maybe I’ll see ya there! If I can’t change my plans, I’ll have to give the ticket rights to someone on GM-Volt
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:40 pm)DonC: continued From #64?
That’s why they make two car garages
+5
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:44 pm)_____________________________________________________________
Wow.
New York being added to the Volt launch list!
New York the destination end point of the Freedom Drive party!
GM-Volt readers getting free exclusive invitations to the Freedom Drive party!
What does all this mean?
Can only be interpreted one way:
GM’s acknowledging (Big Time) Lyle’s considerable contribution towards the ground-roots surge of popularity of the Volt.
+1 Lyle
____________________________________________________________
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:45 pm)Yes! A major positive today. Good job, GM. Please keep it coming.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:54 pm)All they need now is a ‘give-away contest’… How about: “Register today at your local Chevrolet Dealer for your chance to win 1 of 10 new VOLTs”!!!! That’ll get your 4th of July sparkler going!
Jul 1st, 2010 (2:56 pm)I also registered. I’m pretty sure I can get out of my current plans…
Hopefully, I’ll see the two of you there!
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:03 pm)No official word yet … but here is what I expect:
In the near future, GM will outline a broad range of criteria that a Dealership must meet prior to being named an “Authorized” VOLT dealer. There is precedence for this as they have consistently done it with vehicles like the Corvette ZR-1 (as CorvetteGuy will attest). The criteria will not be onerous, but it will be far reaching. Items will likely include training a certain number of salespeople, technicians, service consultants and other staff. Likely an analysis of the dealerships electrical system (would assume the need to install a live charging station). Possible technology upgrades for both service capabilities as well as customer communications. GM may set minimum benchmarks for current customer satisfaction ratings and consumer inquirey response times.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:15 pm)Listening to Tony DiSalle.
I must confess, I am an unregistered enthusiast. I feel so cheap, on the outs, a denizen of the netherworlds. Bummer.
“The car will be very tightly packaged”? Can someone in the know explain what this means in human-speak.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:17 pm)Option packages.. probably means no strippers.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:23 pm)Demo Volts!
Allright!, visit your dealership, get the free hotdog & coke, chat and get an autographed t-shirt from Corvetteman, ogle a bit at the cheerleaders, test ride the Cruze for the pre-Volt-demo acclimatization procedure (we dont wants shocks) and finally get in line to drive the Volt..then do the brief post-Volt-demo debrief.
-14
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:27 pm)(click to show comment)
-4
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:28 pm)Merit will be awarded when it is earned. Let’s see the data.
Of course, if that were true, why in the world isn’t it being taken advantage of?
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:30 pm)Very well spoken presentation today. A bunch of good news and Mr. DiSalle gets the engineering.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:31 pm)Boston Tea party was in 1773, battle at Lexington/Concord in 1775. We declared independence in 1776 (the D of I was sent to the printer on July 4th and read publicly on July 8)….the war didnt end until 1783 and the Constitution wasnt signed until 1787…and finally, Washington became the first President in 1789.
-2
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:31 pm)Just saw the web cast with Tony DiSallie. Did I hear correctly that Chevy is not going to increase production of the VOLT even though new rollout markets have been added??? 10K is the number ???
-4
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:32 pm)where can I find a recording?.. missed a bit of the beginning and end.
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:33 pm)Only one piece of new news, only 30k Volts in 2nd year! This is disappointing, I was under the impression from earlier blogs that full production, 60k+/yr would start as soon as June 2011, now this has been not only confirmed that the 10k is for the full 2011 model year but only 1/2 production for second year. Bad news indeed.
I don’t understand how they can talk about expanding markets if they refuse to make the cars.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:35 pm)Thanks, Tony. July sun in Texas? You’re a real trooper.
Only a slight acknowledgement that they’ll sell every one they’ll make at the low initial volumes. Stoic response–was Tony told to be that way, was he tired, or what? He seemed a bit distant. Hope this isn’t just another quick stepping-stone to another job at GM. The program could use some stability.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:36 pm)According to the web cast, there will be ‘Authorized Service’ shops spread out everywhere. Therefore, you could buy a Volt at a Sales&Sevice Dealer and get it serviced just about anywhere.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:40 pm)Awesome! I suppose I can drive from Houston to Austin to buy one!?! Based on the logic of buying one in NY and living in Syracuse, I suppose the same is true in Texas. This development is a totally awesome surprise.
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:40 pm)Now they just need to release the Volt in Seattle,Washington and Portland, Oregon. There known to be some the greenest states in the western United States especially Oregon when it comes to some of it’s architecture. Somewhere in downtown Portland there is green architecture and I wouldn’t mind going down there if me and my family ever went back to Oregon and in Seattle you will notice in parts of the city there are solar panels like on pedestrian signs so of course cars can slow down when there are people and there might be other ways that they might use them especially here in Renton I’ve noticed one of the buildings has solar panels on it if only the other buildings were like this and especially the people who built my neighborhood I live in forbids them as an eyesore plus my mom has told me that she has seen wind turbine blades around one of the interstates not too far from here. So if gm is releasing the Volt in Washington D.C., Michigan, California, the newcomers. New York, Texas, New Jersey, and Connecticut they should as well include Washington State and Oregon plus Redmond is getting Electric charging stations.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:45 pm)In the webcast, DiSalle specifically said ’10k in the 2011 CALENDAR year and 30k in the 2012 calendar year’. The calendar year goes across the model years. 2011 will have a mixture of 2011s and 2012s. 2012 calendar year will have a mixture of 2012 and 2013 models.
I don’t know if this is worse or better than previous reports, but, there it is. I will speculate that this means there will be very few available for Christmas 2010.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:50 pm)What is wrong with my comment I thought it was good whoever did this must be a cyber bully?
-2
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:50 pm)LeoK do you have any idea how long it would take to get a dealership Authorized?
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:52 pm)With DC and Connecticut now being chosen, GM could easily sell all the 2011 allotment in just the corridor that runs between South Mass. and Southern Virginia. So I would conclude that what you are really saying, in a practical sense, is that more should be built.
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:52 pm)Baseball, hot dogs, apple pie, cheerleaders, the latest Chevy products like the Volt and the 4th of July go together perfectly.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:53 pm)You didn’t miss anything, unless you missed the part about only 30k Volts in 2012. Obviously the questions answered were cherry picked to re-tell us what we already knew. None of my questions were answered.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:55 pm)I agree…and it will be nice when the first wave owners get delivery. Maybe one of them will even create a website with a daily log (on energy usage, personal viewpoints, Volt sitings, etc.), user manuals based on input from other owners, and technical documents explaining the Voltec/E-Flex drivetrain.
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:57 pm)I will be at the Gaithersburg MD dealer. It is less then 2 miles from my House
.
Happy 4th to all
And congrats to NYC (Lyle too, I am Jealous) and Austin TX.
-3
Jul 1st, 2010 (3:58 pm)WHAT! No announcement of more to be built? No news. Now the 4K have to be divided up more.
Makes no sense, there’s still the same quantity. What is GM afraid of. Just a poor pet project to make it look like their doing something.
lol, stupid company.
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:00 pm)Dude, you are seriously no fun to be around.
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:01 pm)I think the trolls are out in force to-day, marking down anything positive.
-3
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:02 pm)I rarely ever get minuses on my comments ever?
-1
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:02 pm)“If you can’t make it to New York, enthusiasts in the Washington DC area can meet up at Criswell Chevrolet in Gaithersburg, MD on July 3rd. The time will be from 2p to 5p. There will be food and drinks and opportunity to test drive a Volt.”
I just got off the phone with Criswell Chevy.
No test drives. Not even sure if you can sit in the car. They are planning on being packed and only have a 2 hr window for viewing the singe volt given to them by GM.
They are taking deposits and have several already. These are 100% refundable if you don’t like the car when they start arriving.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:03 pm)Hopefully, CNN will do a story on TV about the Volt this weekend at the Volt 4th of July party in New York. It looks like CNN Money already has heard about the drive from Austin to New York. They gotta interview the Volt development team and Lyle. Cmon CNN. The Volt is going to be one of the biggest new car rollouts in history. They gotta be there to cover it.
http://money.cnn.com/2010/07/01/autos/volt_release_states/
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:06 pm)What logic? People will as rationally as possible make up their minds, and then do whatever crazy things they must do, to get to that goal. If their minds weren’t already made up before they consciously began to mull it over. See my comment @ #71
Aren’t totally awesome surprises totally awesome because they transcend all the logic we were using until the moment we were surprised? Not a very good example, never mind, time for a nap
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:06 pm)Surprising news indeed. Now what do I do? Cancel my Leaf reservation? hmm, I’l wait a bit more until the official volt pricing is out.
Somebody at GM is getting things right!
Good move, sell alot before the IPO.
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:07 pm)I agree Roy H I don’t get why theses cyber bullies have put minuses on my comments and it makes no sense at all it’s nothing but bull I tell you.
-10
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:07 pm)(click to show comment)
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:09 pm)Biggest? LOL.
+5
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:14 pm)Low production can only mean one thing. GM will be loosing money on each Volt and wants to keep the losses to a minimum.
-11
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:16 pm)(click to show comment)
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:16 pm)How about these newer things. I didn’t know this before:
1. There will be Authorized Service Centers beyond the first markets.
2. Texas will be one of the first markets.
3. NY, CT, and NJ will be one of the first markets.
Some of you guys just throw cold water on everything. It’s un-American I tell ya. The dude is a marketing guy. Of course he’s going to cherry pick the questions. sheesh.
What’d you ask him? The price? CS mode mpg? Ya just know they aren’t going to answer questions they’re not ready to answer yet. Some of them (like CS mpg) they won’t ever answer as it’s irrelevant to the sale of the vehicle. (Marketing is all about sales in case you were wondering.)
When you went to buy your last new car… Didja ask them what the fuel mileage would be driving 55mph in Kansas? Did they answer with an exact number? Nope. They pointed to the EPA sticker and said: YMMV.
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:24 pm)Who are you people? You just want to make fun of people of there comments plus we need a variety of electric vehicles not just one type I just don’t get these minuses at all.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:26 pm)Knew that about six months ago.
Ok this is not old news, but given in the blog heading, not new via Tony DiSalle in his “Answer questions” video.
I tried to ask questions that were not previously answered, but might be answered.
Can you give us a date for the MSRP announcement?
Why only 30k Volts in second year?
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:26 pm)There is plenty of time between now and when the first VOLT’s might start arriving….
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:29 pm)Hold your head up high, stick your chest out, and don’t let those cyber-bullies intimidate you.
…And to the folks who reached beyond all of your previous limitations to give a minus one to the comment @ 109 I say LOL…
Oh and which side of the double entendre got the -1?
AAAhh hah ha. 
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:30 pm)Fight back! There’s more of us than bullys.
I just went through and plus + regulars that were in the red. And minus for the bullys until they are voted off the island!
Plus, don’t reply to them. Eventually they’ll go away because it won’t be ‘fun’ anymore. Their comments will disappear and you can’t fight Cool Hand Luke.
-13
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:40 pm)(click to show comment)
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:40 pm)Yes, that is true. But a word of caution…
JUST STOP AND THINK ABOUT IT…. if you are a dealer in a launch market, are you going to sell any of the few VOLT’s you get to folks living outside your market? Or are you going to sell them to folks living in your market who will likely come back to your dealership for maintenance and warranty service? Every authorized dealer will have to make significant investments in tools, training, parts, etc and therefore it makes good business sense to keep sales within their market area.
Yes, there will be dealers around the country who will make the investment NOW to become an authorized service provider. These dealers know they will eventually begin selling the VOLT and they will figure they will be a step ahead. Particularly for dealers in vaction travel spots, this will make sense if there might be folks traveling in their neighborhood. The concept of a national network of Service Providers is for just that: covering the needs of folks while they are traveling from home.
But back to the actual launch markets. If a dealer in one of those markets chooses to sell a vehicle outside of that market, there is only two reasons: 1) there were no buyers within his market so he had to reach outside his market to sell the vehicle (not very likely!) or 2) the dealer chooses to sell their VOLT’s to the highest bidder who happens to be from outside their market, but whose money is still good.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:51 pm)1. The date is ‘sometime before launch’. There’s no way the marketing guy will answer this question. It’s a marketing ploy to not give out too much information at once. It needs to be timed just right to not conflict with IPO and competitor’s announcements.
2. Because they are GM and have been doing this crap for over 100 years. I think they know what needs to be done better than some armchair quarterbacks. (No offense intended to GM-Volt bloggers.)
IMHO, they shouldn’t have said anything about proposed build numbers unless it’s just smoke for the competition. 10k and 30k is just setting an expectation. It has no basis in reality other than a prediction/projection from what they think right now. Two years from now is a long way off.
If the demand is higher, they will figure out a way to make more. It’s no different than Doritos. Eat all you want; we’ll make more.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:51 pm)Wish I was closer to the east coast! That would be a fantastic event, and on the 4th of July too.. The live oil gusher feed on CNN is just another reminder that we really need to switch to electric driving. The Volt is what we need to bridge the gap without drastic lifestyle changes .. Great job Lyle for sharing so much information about this game-changing vehicle!! Showing up in the freedom drive Volt is very fitting. Enjoy!
-11
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:54 pm)(click to show comment)
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:56 pm)john1701a might need to change his “online name” to john2024 (reference the Bible – show me the MSRP, CS mpg, gas tank size, etc.). GM loves hype…and I agree…it can be exciting. However, some vehicles get more hype than deserved and potential buyer’s could be disappointed.
I’ve wondered if most Volt buyers will care less if the CS mpg is considerably lower than level set by enthusiasts (approximately 50-60 mpg). If the buyer’s daily commute is within the “real world” EV range, it is less of a concern. john1701a is like most US car owners that enjoy telling you “why their vehicle choice is the best?”.
I think that GM needs to design their first EREV that MOST new car buyers can purchase. Which means…a vehicle that is priced well below the median new car price. $40K MRSP is not even close. It is yet to be seen if GM has balanced MSRP, performance, and features of the Volt to make it a “win” for the company…and the country. If the hype wins over buyer’s with inadequate credit ratings, a high repo rate tends to lower the hype of a product. Especially if a few costly repairs are to blame.
Now to get into the fun…GO VOLT!
Jul 1st, 2010 (4:58 pm)We could call it ‘john1701b.com’. HaHaHaHaHaHa!
But seriously, I think that’s the intention of the VoltNation sites here on GM-Volt.
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:03 pm)Wall Street Journal: “GM Revs Up Volt Production to 10,000 Cars”.
http://bit.ly/baod2h
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:04 pm)Has anyone tried to register and not gotten in?
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:14 pm)“If dealers want a Volt in their showrooms, they must undergo specialized sales and service training and install a higher voltage charging station. They also must agree to keep at least one Volt in their showroom to demonstrate to customers”
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:16 pm)Some good points but…
Dag nabbit, I resemble that remark.
One small point here, When I was in grade school I saw a short film on how the chip maker started, and nothing gave me the impression that the first chip off the line would cost a chip maker any where near the more than 750 million dollars of the first Volt sold. Also, the marginal costs and profits or losses would be a great deal less for a bag of chips than a new model car.
Except for that you’ve got it right on the money.
Yes, except we don’t know if that’s more for; 2011, 2012, 2013, Gen II or Gen III. I don’t know their cost structure and it’s a moving changing set of targets.
-13
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:21 pm)(click to show comment)
-17
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:22 pm)(click to show comment)
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:28 pm)Totally excited about the to do. I did get the reservations and instructions. Sounds like the security will be appropriately tight. Photo ID, and copies of both forms for each person. Gee, maybe they won’t let me in (lol).
SEE YOU SOON!
Tagamet
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:29 pm)Off topic:
I just checked the GM GlobalConnect ordering system. The 2011 VOLT is still not in there. The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is there, but no prices yet. It does show available colors and “Crystal Red Metallic” is NOT on the list. I don’t get it, since most of the images online show it in red. Colors are: Silver Ice Metallic (like my Vette), Imperial Blue Metallic, Black Granite Metallic, Summit White, Taupe Gray Metallic, and Ice Blue Metallic.
Anybody want a Cruze?
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:34 pm)I believe pure EVs will use more gasoline than EREVs.
Here’s why: Most pure EV proponents say they will use another car for longer trips. In most cases that other car doesn’t get 50 MPG.
For example, let’s say you own a Nissan Leaf and use a Toyota Corolla for longer trips. With a typical driving pattern, assuming you only charge overnight:
Vehicle ……………… Gallons per year
Volt ………………………. 37
Leaf/Corolla ………… 39
Prius …………………… 228
30 MPG car ………… 380
20 MPG car ………… 570
-16
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:34 pm)(click to show comment)
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:36 pm)So you’re tellin’ me Osama bin Hiden is gonna want one? Perhaps, not such a bad idea for the guy – if he drives in EV mode, he’ll have less of a heat signature! L
L
OK, If I don’t worship Muhammed I’ll still get murdered or spiritually outcast —- ohhhhh kayyyyy….
Are you saying everyone needs to face Mecca…..ohhhhhhhh kayyyyyyy….. I hope I’m on a secure server…..
Wouldn’t you think Middle Easterners would be afraid of the Volt and Voltecs? I mean, O.P.E.C. would keep the price per barrel as low as possible to help sink EVs and EREVs…..If we all drove ‘em they’d be on camels in a tent out in some God-forsaken desert….
Oh ooooooh kayyyyyyy…..now I get it…….
You’re a fake —- and you’re trying to be funny………..ahhhhh…
…………didn’t work.
RECHARGE!
James
-3
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:37 pm)Same old song from me: “too little, too slowly”
Range-Anxiety is a problem Volt solves, right? Well then, how come GM has lowered second-year production volume from the 60,000 we’ve been hearing about for years to just 30,000? Why do that when Nissan has already received over 15,000 Leaf pre-orders from just the US alone? It doesn’t make any sense.
And of course, with Toyota providing 600 plug-in Prius to businesses & organizations wideworld over the next year for long-term real-world data-collection, what is GM thinking?
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:38 pm)I tried to register and didn’t get in, if that’s the same thing. I would love to go, with my family.
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:40 pm)I’ll bet most of those people have no conception of what charging for 3 hours to drive 2 hours really means.
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:46 pm)Us stupid dum dums buy most of your stuff, so I wouldn’t be so forthcoming with the insults, if I were you.
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:47 pm)Interesting…. you have some good points …. but #2 about doing it for over a hundred years may be suspect… they did go bankrupt … the “new GM” may be looking at different way to do things.
Sure hope you are right about the 10k to 30k numbers as maybe being “smoke” or “setting expectations” … both are good strategies. :+}
“eat(buy) all you want …. we will make more” I like that!
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:49 pm)I did finally get an email confirmation at 5:00pm.
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:49 pm)Except that GM had previously stated they would build 60,000 Volts in the second year. So why did they pull back the numbers?
To be clear, I have no problem ramping up the line initially. The first year production volume doesn’t really count.
But the second year is when they are supposed to get the line cranked up and rolling out 200-300 Volts a day. If GM doesn’t do this, then I have to wonder what their motivation is.
A number of GM spokespeople have come on this site and basically said outright the the Volt is supposed to be a halo car, to get people interested in other GM cars and trucks. They’re trying to copy Toyota and the Prius, bit it won’t work. The Prius halo worked because it’s all about efficiency, and most of the other Toyota were more efficient at the time.
But the Volt is about using electricity instead of gasoline. Why would I buy some other GM car if I wanted to use electricity instead of gasoline? That makes no sense. I would buy some other car that runs on electricity. So the Volt won’t work as a halo, but demand for the Volt itself will be huge, and I think this is all going to be a big shock for GM. They’re actually going to have to build these things…
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:53 pm)Yes, my thoughts exactly, +1.
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:53 pm)I really don’t get all the trolls who disparage the VOLT because it can use gasoline if needed.
Most Volt owners will probably eliminate most of their gasoline usage.
And get great gas mileage when they do use the ICE.
You gotta problem with that?
If America could adopt Voltec type technology throughout its fleet, about 80% of gasoline usage would be eliminated. Thats an excellent first step backed by over a billion dollars of research.
The second step, pure battery travel, comes as battery tech and charging availabilty improves. And we will get there as the various types of electric cars become more accepted and utilized. One day internal combustion automobiles will be but a memory. But thats NOT going to happen overnight, regardless of how badly you want it to.
If you are an ardent environmentalist, VOLT is one of the best news stories for you this year.
Why be so negative? This is a fantastic first step!!!
(Now go sit in the corner and think about what you have learned today.)
GO VOLT!
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (5:56 pm)Man, I hope GM proves me wrong. I hope they prove me wrong, I hope they prove me wrong.
But why no co-announcement of more output to match the new sales zones? I know, I know, “stay tuned”.
It’s great that Texas is in – oil country! Nice! Soon Houston and the rest of Texas may be in, and just one or two Volts driving around is such a powerful message so near BP’s main U.S. office and Texas’ proximity to the Gulf!
RECHARGE!
James
P.S. - GM – PLEASE DON’T FORGET SEATTLE AREA ( Microsoft – Boeing – Starbucks – Amazon.com…. ) We have several huge Microsoft campuses, Bill Gates could drive one, Paul Allen, Steve Ballmer….and those free Prius campus shuttles need to be Volts! Microsofties can afford Volts, man.
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:00 pm)I agree!!!
If the Volt is supposed to be a HALO car.. it will not work for anyone interested in an electric car. They will just go somewhere else… SOOOO what is the game plan GM is trying to accomplish???
Did they get info the demand is not as strong?? or ???
This will be an interesting thread to follow …
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:14 pm)OT but related to Texas’ Volt rollout -
MIXED MESSAGE DEPT.
BP announces plug in hybrid charging stations and solar arrays to power their gas stations…
http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.solardesign.com/images/BP-chargeport-200.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.solardesign.com/projects/project_display.php%3Fid%3D1&usg=__vZCELREbai11SrDfRspnu9TieeM=&h=258&w=200&sz=24&hl=en&start=4&itbs=1&tbnid=yhbtwwgUewJVwM:&tbnh=112&tbnw=87&prev=/images%3Fq%3DBP%2Belectric%2Bplug%26hl%3Den%26gbv%3D2%26tbs%3Disch:1
Uh………Do you really think this will turn around public opinion of BP? ……uhhhhh.
RECHARGE!
James
Volt is a much stronger presence in Texas, BEEEE PEEEEE on our oceans
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:17 pm)Capt Jack has been expressing an interest in strippers for over a year now.
Sorry capt. It looks like GM will not be providing you with strippers.
.
.
.
(What??
I am talking about cars with only a few options. Get your minds out of the gutter)
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:19 pm)What started off so promising turned into a bummer as far as I’m concerned. Whitacre’s performance at the Austin Chamber of Commerce was, at best, horrible. All this stuff about how great Texas is for GM because it’s a great market for Escalades and Tahoes just reinforces the reasons why GM vehicles are so unpopular on the coasts. Ugh. And then he says that driving the Corvette is “addictive” and that, oh by the way, he drove to the event in a Volt. Wow. What a happy afterthought. Really, if I hear one more old white guy wax eloquent about a Corvette I’m gong to puke.
Then we have the production numbers dropping to 30K for the second full year of production, the reason for which is that GM needs to learn how to make the cars. Huh? They’ve been making cars for a hundred years and still can’t ramp up like Nissan?
Here is what one commentator had to say about this entire fiasco:
From Business Week about the SMART car: “The U.S. debut of the urban two-seater is foundering after a promising start in 2008, when North American sales propelled Smart to its first profit. With just one model, the “ForTwo,” U.S. sales plunged 41 percent to 14,600 cars last year, more than the 15 percent decline by Daimler’s Mercedes-Benz.”
So to put it in perspective GM is aiming the 2011 Volt sales target below the unsustainable figure for the failing SMART car. As I have said, GM is not serious about the VOLT.
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:19 pm)MIXED MESSAGE DEPT.#2
….ugh! Picture didn’t work…..wait for it……
RECHARGE!
James
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:20 pm)By the way I just made a similar drive from Houston to NYC in a Chevy Aveo and I can tell you that it was a pleasurable drive and getting 35 mpg was not bad. Getting 40+ in a Volt would be even better.
Glad to hear that Texas is going to be a launch market. It makes sense to add the 2nd and third most populous states into the mix.
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:24 pm)I know full well that I shouldn’t post this *but*, what ever happened to the reasoning of keeping the production numbers low given the revolutionary technology and it’s possibility of needing some early “interventions” (which would be more easily accomplished on 10,000 vehicles than on 100,000 vehicles)?
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!****NPNS
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:27 pm)??????????????????!!!!
There!
lol, RECHARGE!
James
TAGAMET!!!! ~ Good to see you back man! Welcome back!
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:31 pm)Under-promise, over-deliver. (g)
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!****NPNS
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:34 pm)While in Texas, I hope GM takes advantage of a P-E-R-F-E-C-T opportunity to snap some promo pics in BP’s corporate parking lot – making sure there’s lots of BP signs and insignia in the background.
RECHARGE!
James
If GM makes Volts we can all buy – might I suggest a VOLTNATION ANNUAL MEETUP in oil country?
Can you imagine a shiney new Volt in front of a oiled bird cleanup center? Or just a nice aerial shot of a Volt speeding along a bridge glistening in the sun over the bright reddish strips of sludge stretching for miles in the waters underneath?
The Freedom Drive is excellent – add my kudos. A Texas City Tour – Freedom Drive II?
RECHARGE!
James
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:38 pm)Hi James! I thought that I was seeing double, but I guess that there are two of you (evil grin)(JUST KIDDING!).
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!****NPNS
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:41 pm)Though Ford is suppose to bring full electric cars by 2012 and I do agree that we do need full electric cars in the future but still we need different varieties to fit all needs for everybody’s taste when it comes to vehicles so think twice before you minus someone.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:47 pm)But Carlos, if I buy your Leaf, How would I drive to my grandma’s house over 565 miles away? I would need a second car! And that car would burn oil. And then there was all the energy used to build the 2nd car. Then they had to ship my 2nd car from somewhere burning oil. Oh and they had to mine the iron ore for the steel and aluminum for the second car. And on and on….
Please Carlos — Please explain the Carbon foot print for driving the Leaf plus second gas or diesel on a yearly basis versus having just the VOLT. And I want conception to womb to cradle to garage numbers.
And if somehow you can miraculously document some advantage to BEV over EREV. Then I would need to say that I would buy the MiEV as it is $10,000 cheaper than your overprice Leaf.
You’ve been served — Dance for me Carlos —-
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:53 pm)Mr. DiSalle has already made the announcement, appears to be less not more.
Let’s compare apples to apples. Anyone remember the numbers he said for each MY? Then convert those for the calendar years and figure out if that will be different from what was announced before.
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (6:54 pm)You must be under “30″. That’s okay. Many of you kids on this site find “hypermileage” or is it “hypermile-ing” a fun thing to do. I suppose when gasoline gets back up to $4.15 in California, I would have fun doing that too. Go ahead and puke, but a Corvette is fun to drive! Especially if you prefer “American-Made Performance”. Stop by and I’ll give you a test drive in a 2010 Grand Sport.
But for now, back to the question at hand… I’m now waiting to see if our dealership owner is going to ‘pony-up’ to the list of demands GM has for dealers if they want to be ‘approved’ to sell and service the VOLT.
And to recap for those of you ready to place an order, here is an estimated price quote:
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:01 pm)Totally Awesome!
Enjoy the fireworks.
+5
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:08 pm)Many still think that way. We know that GM can and should wait until V2.0 before kicking the production schedule up anyway since that vehicle will be a more optimized vehicle for GM and the consumer.
The site is under constant attack from negative nellies who have a knee jerk reaction to cast doubt on anything that happens. I think this stems from an irrational hatred of GM in general.
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:09 pm)A dealers business is selling cars, and they are going to charge me to sell me a car?
I think not.
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:20 pm)Rational or otherwise (more often the latter), there sure a ton of negative nabobs. You may not be a shrink, but methinks that you stayed in a Holiday Inn Express last night.
Won’t be long until we’re rubbing elbows with birds of a similar feather!
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!****NPNS
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:21 pm)I don’t understand your question.
-5
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:28 pm)Seems like it’s more like over-hype and under deliver. As one of the posters over at Autobloggreen wrote: So it comes down to about 10-20 press releases per car produced….
Very disappointing. Very very disappointing.
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:29 pm)Sounds like you’re being accused of wanting a profit or something. Shrug.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!****NPNS
-4
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:31 pm)Yep. And many of these issues will have to be found on the road (not in the lab).
This looks like a pretty good summary of battery Life (and death) issues:
http://www.mpoweruk.com/life.htm
The Volt’s li-ion pack will be subject to more of these issues than a pure BEV (or a plug in Prius, for that matter)
Some factors will be:
1. Cyclic stresses ( in the CS mode)
2. Vibration
3. Whiplash effects — imagine the stress on the battery if running in CS mode up a hill at highway speeds and a fuel contamination/ partially clogged filter event occurs. The engine is now cycling between high power and off with a corresponding load on the battery.
Some of these factors may not look too serious in the lab at first, but factor in some wear/tear/corrosion/years of service and the risk of severe battery damage will increase.
This is all unknown territory. Many more unknowns than for a BEV.
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:32 pm)Way to go GM!!! They finally came out swinging! After taking countless marketing blows from Nissan over the past year, they have stolen back the spotlight and are looking to seize the day. I’m a happy camper right now. It’s time to get this show on the road… bring on the Volt!
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:35 pm)Substitute the Volt for an OS and GM for IBM and that’s pretty much what IBM said about why they weren’t more aggressively competing against Windows 3.1. Their view was that their optimized OS V2.0 would easily make up lost ground. How did that work out? You have to compete early and often. Your competitors are not standing still.
The Volt is technology, and technology is very much a winner take all business. GM doesn’t seem to understand this. With new technology the difference between one and two is very large. Nissan is the obvious winner at this point, with GM more or less squandering a great opportunity of becoming the EV leader.
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:38 pm)Be careful Tag, you’ll be deemed “unfathomably optimistic” or something—LOL! You missed it the last few weeks. Lots of “GM can do no right” fog hanging around here again. Good to have you back by the way! Enjoy the Volt meet-up!
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:38 pm)On the Home Page of this blog site, it says there are 52,241 people signed up on Lyle’s Want List. Maybe it’s just wishful thinking, but I’m pretty sure 52,240 of them would be happy to pay the “Manufacturer’s SUGGESTED Retail Price” to get one. Sadly, the 1 guy who REFUSES to pay ‘full sticker price’ I would venture to say is just not going to get one this year… or next year… or maybe the year after that. I fully appreciate that point of view. I have been saying the same thing about Aston Martins, Bugattis, Ferraris, and others. And you know what? They still won’t mark one down to $30,000 for me. I don’t know why. It just doesn’t seem fair. Them making a profit and all.
+3
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:40 pm)I just saw my first Volt commercial! Finally! I guess the gloves are finally coming off!
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:44 pm)I can’t watch the video here. But was it really so bad? Maybe he means that the Volt is just as much fun to drive as the Corvette? (Not that I personally care about fun to drive. Or would even notice. But it would be a big selling point…)
+2
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:44 pm)#168 add,
If there turns out to be too many battery failures on Gen 1, then I would suspect one of the first changes would be to take the big portion of the bat pack out of the “buffer zone” loop when the car is running in CS mode.
This, of course, would have many implications to the overall design of the car’s power-train.
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:46 pm)Is there something wrong with being young? Or caring about what the world will be like when we’re not?
+4
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:49 pm)I may well have missed something, but what exactly has Nissan done other than talk and take deposits? Help me out here.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!****NPNS
+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (7:49 pm)What channel??!!! This is important. Was it regular Network or a Cable channel? I am interested in what time slot too. I want to know what demographic the ‘new’ GM Marketing Dept is shooting for.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (7:52 pm)Of course not! But not all Corvette owners are old. Some of us are “old AND fat”. There’s so much more of us to love.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (7:55 pm)They said they had capacity for 60,000. Not that they were going to build 60,000. Personally, I suspect that when they open up the waiting list, they’ll change their minds.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:06 pm)In general, I agree that GM is vastly underestimating initial demand. I don’t think it’s meant purely as a halo. But I suspect they think it will take until gen 2 for the car to really take off. I think they’re wrong. And it will cost them initially.
That said, there is a huge difference between an OS and a car. When it comes to buying an operating system, I have a vested interest in having the most popular one. Because it has the most software available. And because that way my software is compatible with that of everyone else I know.
Jul 1st, 2010 (8:09 pm)No, I’m pretty sure they gave projected production numbers for the second year at 60,000. IIRC, that was 18-24 months ago.
Jul 1st, 2010 (8:11 pm)?
By the way, I just read over your post again–and, for the record, I will be shocked if GM offers 0% financing for the Volt.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:11 pm)I am watching the Mets game on SNY(Sports Net New York) It was around 8:00pm and the commercial was shoo from the point of view of the driver inside the car. The car is driving on a winding country road and all you hear is slight road noise ( I drive a MINI-E so it was exactly what I’m used to hearing as I drive) so I thought it was a new Leaf commercial. They then say something about breaking the rules and then it had the Volt logo. I was surprised because I was expecting to see the Leaf. I’m happy they are beginning the ad campaign.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:11 pm)AND low maintenance!
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!****NPNS
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:21 pm)I looked up the reference in Bloomberg. And the article (dated October 27, 2009) said “as many as” 60,000 Volts. To me, that says upper limit. Not planned production…
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=arP5LCH.J88s
And here’s a Reuters article dated January 10th, 2011. And the words are “limited to.”
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE60A0D920100111
Do you have any references without the qualifications?
FWIW, I suspect that upper limit still holds. They can ramp up to 60,000 if needed. They’re just not planning to do so before they have an estimate of actual demand.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:24 pm)Here is a link to prove that not all American car companies are gas guzzlers cyber bullies take a look if you don’t believe me. http://www.ford.com/about-ford/news-announcements/press-releases/press-releases-detail/pr-blue-oval-on-a-green-streak2658-32802
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:32 pm)There are no technological moonshots in neither the Volt or LEAF.. both companies know very well how to build electrics. The issue will be market acceptance, Nissan is taking a big risk and GM is being more cautious. Every new component in a car is risky.. GM could end up with a massive recall based on something as simple as some plastic part in the gas pedal assembly. The problem with electrics is the upfront cost of buying all your fuel when you buy the car, this is a very uphill marketing struggle.
Perhaps the answer for the common man is leasing the batteries.. but that is forbidden by the Lemon Laws in several states.
Jul 1st, 2010 (8:38 pm)Excellent marketing! This will get people to wonder how the Volt can do that long distance and then perhaps get them to start asking more questions.
When is GM’s (GM-Volt’s?) interactive website going on-line that can simply show what the Volt and Voltec is about? How it works with only the click of a mouse.
Oh, don’t forget to tell Tony that they need to budget about 53 gallons of gas for the trip (1750 mile / 30 mpg).
Don’t get depressed when the MPG is low because that is expected (by anyone who looks at efficiency of systems). It is not a dedicated highway car, only an EV that is highway capable. That is excellent, folks!
I hope Lyle does not have a sad face as he realizes the Volt will not get the 50 mpg at 70 mph that he was expecting. Hey, it’s not a miracle machine. It must follow the laws of physics!
Anyway, great news lately. The Volt is almost here and it looks like it’s going to be a great tool to help the world transition away from petroleum while buying us time to figure out and install our next transportation infrastructures.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:39 pm)Well, it’s been a very exciting day, and likely to get even moreso by Sunday. I have some important tests tomorrow, so I’m turning in early.
Night all,
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!****NPNS
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:43 pm)Oh yea of little faith.
Be well and believe,
Tagamet
Let’s Just Get The VOLTS ‘ Wheels On The Road!!****NPNS
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:43 pm)Now that is the best news I’ve heard today! I’ve had the TV off all day. Time to start watching!
Jul 1st, 2010 (8:45 pm)The LG battery plant in Holland, MI will be able to supply 60k battery packs per year by 2012. Bringing in battery packs from Korea is not cheap, the FCC get nervous about the potential dangers in airplanes. This increases the cost of transporting lithium batteries long distances:
http://www.aircargoworld.com/News/April-2010/New-lithium-battery-rule-will-hurt-air-cargo
Jul 1st, 2010 (8:46 pm)We can dream… We can dream…
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:48 pm)This is how it is playing in San Antonio — GM is doing the right thing, get the first 10K on the road and testing year one. Ramp up to 30K and more testing year 2. Release the horses with Gen3 to the masses………….
From MySanAntonio:
San Antonio Chevrolet dealers said local consumers had not expressed much interest in the Volt yet. Since the car’s price had not been announced and other questions remain, customers are taking more of a wait-and-see attitude, dealers said.
“I’d say we’re a little uncertain as to what exactly the reception will be,” said David Vara, general sales manager of Vara Chevrolet.
Chevrolet officials said the company plans to produce 10,000 Volts by the end of next year and 30,000 more during 2012. Markets will be added as production volume increases.
link to the full story: http://www.mysanantonio.com/business/gms_volt_rolls_into_austin_first_97630529.html?c=y&page=2#storytop
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Jul 1st, 2010 (8:48 pm)Oh yes, Dr Leadfoot Lyle
Jul 1st, 2010 (8:54 pm)Thanks for the info. I’m going to try and stop by also, Criswell is only a 46 mile from Gainesville.
Jul 1st, 2010 (9:11 pm)Despite what is printed in the blog, I have contacted Criswell Chevrolet in Gaithersburg and the Volt will not be available for a test drive.
Jul 1st, 2010 (9:18 pm)Still Dreaming about that Red Volt…
Missed out on the pier 92 thing. Wonder if the will have a Red Volt, and a White Volt, and a Blue Volt.
It would make a great time lapse picture with some fireworks in the background.
Cheers
Jul 1st, 2010 (9:28 pm)So unfortunately, I wasn’t able to get out of my plans. I really wish they had announced this a week earlier, but still think it’s great that they’ve invited the GM-Volt fans to this. I did let GM know and they said they’d be sure to fill my spots with someone else.
Alas, I’ll have to meet the two of you (and the Volt) at another Volt event, perhaps the next VoltNation?
Jul 1st, 2010 (9:40 pm)Yep, I’ll be there!
Yep, I’ll be there
Jul 1st, 2010 (9:41 pm)Money is so cheap right now that I am shocked that everyone doesn’t get 0% out of the gate.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (9:49 pm)What are you peeps all excited about, no mention of increased production from the 8,000 maximum , just the need for more dealers as the current ones won’t pay to sell the volt
Think I’m wrong? so me the link
Jul 1st, 2010 (9:59 pm)I’ll be at Criswell on Saturday. Did really want to drive the car; I’ve seen it plenty at car shows.
Only reason I’m going is to see if its a production ready car with the clamshell hood. Every one I’ve seen to this point was the old first prototype with the “pointy” fenders.
I’m most interested in whether or not they’ve dropped the wheel size again. That would be disappointing. The car needs to keep a little character.
Jul 1st, 2010 (10:12 pm)I saw the Volt commercial during the evening news in Austin. It was really cool. It basically said something to the effect of the sound of the automobile revolution coming. It had in-car video of a volt driving on a windy road with almost deafening silence. The description isn’t very interesting, but the commercial is good.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (10:22 pm)Guess what everybody! I was looking on my Wii and they were talking about that we may be getting flying cars yes you heard me right and I’m not making up Jetson gibberish at all though the main thing that this car may not catch on is that it will cost a whopping $194,000 Us dollars plus the wings on the car can fold up it’s wings after it has landed on the ground plus it gets 30 mpg on the ground and here is the link to that flying car. Though pilots may like this type of vehicle as it says in the article. http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/07/01/1711035/cars-with-wings-may-be-just-around.html
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Jul 1st, 2010 (10:35 pm)Technically neither GM nor Nissan has sold a single EV yet. And neither one is going to sell many in 2010 and 2011. So the question is really what are the stated plans.
Nissan is aiming to have a global capacity of 500,000 electric vehicles a year by 2012 with plants in NA, Europe, and Japan. In NA their stated goal is to manufacture 125,000 Leafs during 2012, and Nissan says that by 2012 it will have the capacity to produce 250,000 battery packs in Tennessee. GM? Well it’s planning to make 30,000 Volts during 2012 for all global markets. A 16.7x bogey is not small. That’s an enormous game of catch-up.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (10:40 pm)Today Whitacre said the Volt could go 40 miles in EV mode and then another 300 miles in CS mode. Since we know that the gas tank is 9 gallons your 30 mpg figure depressingly doesn’t seem that far off.
And yes, the one weird thing that struck me as being weird about the trip was that, to the extent the trip is being billed as being free of gasoline, that’s inconsistent with using gas for 95% of the trip.
Jul 1st, 2010 (10:44 pm)If the results are included, u betcha.
The lack of real-world data has been a rather obvious shortcoming. It’s long overdue from all the fallout from the “230 mpg” campaign too.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (10:50 pm)Good guess is that demand in San Antonio will horrible. Demand for hybrids hasn’t changed in ten years. High on the coasts and low in fly-over America. At this point there’s probably not much reason to have a Volt dealer in San Antonio.
The great opportunity for GM would be that a very high percentage of buyers would be new to the brand. So if they sell a thousand Volts in CA or NY they’ll get 900 new customers. In fact, given the low production number GM would probably be smart to just concentrate on the coasts since it’s highly likely that any Volt customer there would not own another GM vehicle. On the other side of the coin, the giant sucking sound you hear will be Nissan’s Smyrna plant taking money from the customers of all the other car companies.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (10:52 pm)We have seen over the past few days from GM-Volt front-page posts that the Volt gets up to 33.3MPG (up to 300 miles on ICE as per GM’s educational material, and a 9 gallon tank as per GM according to CR, confirmed by Lyle).
That means that according to your 5 day trip, GM will actually get 37.5MPG for the trip (assuming they do get 40 miles/day electric, which might be a stretch). That is about equivalent to what one would expect from a $15,000 car of a similar size to the Volt.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (10:55 pm)+1
Jul 1st, 2010 (11:10 pm)Then the LEAF is not for you, but it is good for 19,000 others & counting. You’ll need the Volt or Cruze for grandma’s visit until battery range suits your driving needs.
Watch out for the wolf at the gas pump!
GO EV!!!
Jul 1st, 2010 (11:20 pm)The dirty secret that GM doesn’t want you to think about is that while the Volt may be acceptable for a wide variety of people, pretty much everyone has a better choice available. And people buy the car that makes the most sense for themselves, not the car that is acceptable for a lot of other people.
That includes this freedom trip, which could be made using less gas with several hundred thousand cars that have already been sold this year.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (11:29 pm)I still want a Transformers insignia on mine.
And instead of like 50, that should be like for the first 100,000 since those will just be the initial sales.
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Jul 1st, 2010 (11:33 pm)Ohh suddenly I fell all better about BP.
Jul 1st, 2010 (11:43 pm)It’s only cheap if you’re a bank. Or you’re trying to invest. If you’re a borrower, you still have to pay interest.
As far as the Volt–I expect to GM to take every opportunity to cash in on the Volt’s popularity. They can’t get away with charging what people will pay (since they promised that it would be under $40,000.) So they’ll try to make up some of it with interest rates. Although, since they no longer own GMAC, I’m not sure how much they can get out of this. But I would imagine they get part of the proceeds.
Jul 1st, 2010 (11:44 pm)I hope all is well Doc. You and your style have been missed while you were gone.
Jul 1st, 2010 (11:57 pm)About that 1776 mile trip. While this sound like a great idea of a promo (independence the and all) but touting our Volt as a long distance warrior may not be the best approach. If we assume a five day trip of 355 miles each with five recharges overnight, we get 45 mpg assuming a 40 mpg in charge sustaining mode. This is in quiet a contrast from the 230 miles many of us including me accepts for this car. A long distance usage such as the 4 of July promo just makes the Volt look like an ordinary ICE with a reasonably good mileage. I do not think this is the best way to promote the Volt.
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Jul 2nd, 2010 (12:18 am)The point is you CAN do it. (should you need to) Try driving 1776 miles in 4 days with a Leaf! That after potentially not a burning drop of fuel for the prior weeks or months of commutes.
It’s the best of both worlds.
WopOnTour
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Jul 2nd, 2010 (1:08 am)If it turns out the Volt’s highway mpg is in the low 30′s the highway”Freedom Drive” will have to be one of the biggest bonehead marketing moves of all time.
Jul 2nd, 2010 (2:25 am)Not confirmed. If the empty light comes on with 1.6 gallons left in the tank, that gives you 40.54 EPA but YMMV.
Jul 2nd, 2010 (7:14 am)I will agree the Leaf is not for me, and MAY work for maybe even 100,000 people. But then why would you pay so much for a Leaf, when you can by the MiEV for $10,000 less. And don’t tell me comfort. If you are driving under 100 miles, the MiEV will be comfortable enough. And BTW, that 100 mile range is a little sketch. Yes, you and about 5,000 other drivers can probably get it consistently to 100 mile, by keeping your windows up, A/C or heater off and driving carefully. but the other 95,000 will be driving like normal people and probably be getting less than 75 miles per charge on average.
Jul 2nd, 2010 (8:27 am)CEO Whitacre was generalizing when he said, “Another 300 miles”.
Several months ago we heard a report of CS mode mpg in the 40′s. With another report of , “Well over 300 miles total in CS mode”.
1776 miles – 120 recharge miles = 1656 / 45 mpg CS = 36.8 gallons for 1776 miles = 48 mpg.
The Freedom Dive will yeild at least 48 mpg. If the driver maintains 60 mph this number could be as high as 55 mpg.
What separates the Volt from a currently available hybrid is that no gasoline is used for the first 40 miles. Normal trips around town may use no gasoline at all.
=D-Volt
Jul 2nd, 2010 (9:51 am)Was in Little Rock but did not see/hear about the VOLT. Not much fanfare here…..where did it stop?
Jul 2nd, 2010 (10:05 am)Thanks GM for confirming me as a guest for the July 4th NYC event!!!
Jul 2nd, 2010 (7:39 pm)For GM to really shine, they’d have to share performance detail about trip. Considering we’ve got virtually nothing from the pre-production models so far, how much could you actually expect?
The “230 MPG” promotion was so terribly vague, it wasn’t too hard for them to backpedal afterward. Being so-called “transparent” has left much to be desired.
Sure hope GM breaks that pattern with this…
Jul 3rd, 2010 (7:16 am)Will, the volt every tour Illinois ?
Jul 3rd, 2010 (8:55 am)More likely it means that they contracted for a low number of some critical parts and can’t build more. GM’s own management does not believe in the car, it seems.
Jul 3rd, 2010 (4:10 pm)#19 #60 #103 #198 — I got the same story when I called Criswell: that there would be no test drives.
However I’m happy to report that they did put everyone’s name in a hat. My name was one of those chosen and I _did_ test drive the Volt. (This unit was evidently hand-made in January of this year.) It wasn’t a proper test drive, in that I never left the Criswell lot and never got above 10 mph, but I did get to drive the car.
Jul 3rd, 2010 (4:14 pm)btw, the Volt guy said there would be six colors. Four have already been announced: a black, a dark grey, a white, and veridian juel (pictured, image hotlinked from http://www.wired.com/autopia/2009/11/volt-color-naming-contest/ ).
For now the other two colors are surprises.
Jul 5th, 2010 (11:37 pm)excuse my typo: juel -> joule
Also, someone at the Pier 92 NYC event (which was pleasant, but more low-key than I would have guessed) said that the car was not “hand-made in January” as I was told on Saturday but was made sort of on-the-line in September. I’m pretty sure it was the same car both times, so I’m not sure what to believe.
Jul 10th, 2010 (1:55 pm)LOL! HEY! HEY! HEY! I (finally) saw that!!!
I plan to do a lot of Volt educating right here in Texas.
I’m actually going to find out about one of those “Toy Haulers” that is a motorhome that
a race car can drive up into (and has minimal accommodations). (But put the Volt in there instead of course and protect it overnight). The idea is to put on Volt shows all around Texas. I would have the time of my life.
(Imagine getting paid to have that much fun?!)