GM calls it that, yes -- but technically the Volt is a plug-in serial hybrid. It has the electric motor to move the car, and it has a second motor to provide power when the battery runs out -- two motors arranged this way is a serial hybrid.
The EV1 with a larger version of the Volt's batteries would be a wonderful car! And I heard that they had a 4-door version of the Ev1 ready to go -- back then.
Technically, its both. The Fisker Karma has similar technology, just with a shorter range. I did hear they had a 4-door EV1 almost ready. I think it was in the prototype phase when the project was killed. I saw a pictue of it a while back. I'll try to find it.
One of the biggest factors in these that often goes overlooked is battery type. You don't hear about it all that much but there are actually large strides being made in battery technology. Some great Lithium-polymer stuff just around the corner.
I think one manufacturer (I want to say it was Toyota) is going to be using a more advanced battery type, so whoever it is that would be the EV to watch. (Or at least should have the most theoretical potential.)
According to wiki, with 440 Volts, it can be charged to 80% capacity in about 30 minutes with a special quick charger that sends 440/480 volt direct current to the battery. With 220 Volt, it can be charged in 4 hours, and with standard household 110 Volt outlets it can be charged in 8 hours.
Plus a range of 100 miles with a reported top speed
of 87 mph means Ill have to watch this one closely.
Im willing to bet that with the hills in my area
I would only be able to squeeze half that range.
Regarding Leaf pricing: Nissan will only be leasing the battery. So the price of the car will be quite a bit less than the Volt. That's the angle they've been pushing at press events.
They say (grain of salt, anyone?) the cost of the battery lease + electricity will be comparable to the cost of gas for a similar size ICE vehicle.
I wonder if they will charge (no pun intended ) a fee per mile as part of the battery lease.
The more I think of it... the worse I feel because it sounds like another way to pilfer monthly fees from us. My bank account already has enough monthly dues and payments drawn from it.
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) a fee per mile as part of the battery lease.
