Robert and Me
My question was “In April you were quoted as saying you were 90% confident the Volt would be produced. Considering interval developments, has that number increased?”
Mr. Lutz’ answer was a resounding “Yes”. He said GM is now “fully committed” to producing the car. He no longer considers the lithium-ion battery packs as the sticking point, the only issue now is systems integration.
Mr. Lutz pointed out that the first of four battery packs has been delivered. One more from CPI and two from A123 will arrive by year end.
He noted that initial bench tests of the first battery pack were very encouraging and that they performed exactly to the Volt specifications GM had demanded.
He also went on to say that the production Volt would not look entirely like the concept. One reason being that the concept performed very poorly when it was placed in the wind tunnel. In a memorable and humorous statement, he said “it would have done better if they put it in backwards”. Nonetheless, he said the car will be unmistakable in appearance as a Volt.
He told us that at this very moment, late model Malibus were having their bottoms removed and replaced with Volt drivetrains including a T-shaped opening for the battery packs.
He assured us the test Mules will be driveable in first quarter of 08, and in a personal aside told me I would be invited to drive one. He was certain, as well, that the cars would get the 40 miles range and even mentioned that a 45 mile range was possible.
He further went on to dismiss the idea of an NiMh-battery Volt appearing as an interim step indicating that the technology did not fit with the cars engineering design.
He concluded that he has rapidly become convinced that the Volt will truly be a game-changer.
Very uplifting indeed Mr.Lutz, we and the world thank you!
