I was amazed to count 43 2010 Prius on the lot at my local Toyota dealership today when I took my 2003 Prius in for its 120-mile service. In March of 2003 when I purchased my car I felt lucky that they had 3 on the lot to choose from. Up until then, and just after, there was a 6-month wait.

Well, the Volt launch is only 4 months away after all…obviously consumers are waiting to purchase a Volt! ;-)

I think you are right. I know once I got a taste of electric-drive, even if only at slow speeds in the Prius, I wanted more. I think the Volt, and other electrics are going to produce substantial sales reductions in current hybrids.

I think you are right. I know once I got a taste of electric-drive, even if only at slow speeds in the Prius, I wanted more. I think the Volt, and other electrics are going to produce substantial sales reductions in current hybrids.

I have a Prius and it is a wonderful car. I don't expect Volt sales to zoom but it should do well. Personally, I want a Leaf with 150-200 mile range, not two drivetrains. I want to give up oil changes, ICEs, and gas stations forever. It will be possible in 2-3 years.

I'm just glad to see plug-ins entering the market. Finally, the ICE dolts are getting it, even GM and Ford.

Like the Leaf, the Volt has one drivetrain. In recharge mode, the ICE drives a generator, which electrically powers the batteries and the motor.

Volt is a series hybrid, unlike the Prius, which is a parallel hybrid with two drive chains (Synergy Drive).

You are paying a lot for that extra power source in the Volt, and gaining ICE maintenance and other headaches. For an extra bit of cash you could get a large Enginer kit for the LEAF.. or figure out how to unobtrusively install a range extender trailer.

A short stub tap should be easy to plug into LEAFs battery pack, undetectable yet it quietly sustains the battery as you drive.. the LEAFs computer would suddenly think you have a strong aft wind while going downhill :)

http://www.enginer.us/