Quote:
Originally Posted by MetroMPG
I'll believe it when the vehicles are in their showrooms. Given Chrysler's current situation, I'm calling "greenwashing" on this one; they've just noticed a passing bandwagon and have climbed aboard.
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Like most automakers Chrysler was waiting for the next leap in battery technology before jumping on the electric car bandwagon. I think Chrysler has seen the keen interest in the Volt and said "Hey, we can do that!" Battery technology has been the big holdup all along, but since GM has decided to jump into the plug-in hybrid market others will follow. The electric-only sports car will replace the Viper as the "halo" car for Chrysler. I admit to being intrigued by the Jeep plug-in hybrid. I was looking at 2011 for my next new car purchase and was focusing on the Volt, but now I'm hopeful of having other options to choose from. Competition improves the breed.
You'll notice Honda is content to sit back and wait for the next generation of batteries before jumping into the plug-in market. Honda rarely leads the pack in design or innovation, but when they do finally jump into a segment it is usually highly refined and well thought out. The only thing that might force Honda's hand is a major plug-in push by Toyota.