Consumer Reports gave an initial review of the Volt, which I commented on back in March: (http://solarpowerelectriccars.blogspot.com/2011/03/consumer-reports-on-volt.html)
The October issue also has an article about the Volt along with other high mileage cars (Honda Insight, Toyota Prius, Lexus CT, Volkswagon Jetta, Fiat 500). The article gives the Volt credit for its fuel economy, quiet ride, instant acceleration, and good crash test results. It makes some valid criticisms of the driver's visibility, difficulty using the controls, the heater, and the way people can hit their head getting into the back seat. It also criticizes the "brake modulation" and the "narrow driving position"--neither of which have been any problem for me in the 8,000 miles we've driven so far. And the article criticizes the fact that the car only seats four, and that it uses premium gas.
The Consumer Reports article is less negative than the review last March (when gas was a lot cheaper). But what's completely missing from the discussion is that internal combustion engine vehicles (including the high mileage cars listed above) are destroying the planet. There is no scientific debate about this--it is clear that CO2 is causing serious climate change. The Volt is not just a "fuel efficient" car--it doesn't need any gas at all for 80% of most people's daily trips. If the batteries are charged on renewable energy, it does not produce any CO2 for up to 80% of its mileage.
With expected improvements in batteries in coming years, and with an engine designed to run on biofuels, the Volt could provide carbon free transportation.
Compared to the need to warn passengers to watch their head when they get in the back seat, the destruction of civilization would seem to be a more important point to consider when buying a car.
Driving an electric car means never having to say you're sorry.
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