Showing posts with label Electric Vehicles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Electric Vehicles. Show all posts

Friday, April 13, 2012

Prius Plug-in and Volt EREV Analysis


On GM-Volt.com, there is a quality analysis between the cost of driving a 2013 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid (PHV) vs the 2012 Chevrolet Volt Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV). The bottom line from the analysis is: 
"for low mileage trips (less than 16 miles), the Prius PHV is less expensive........ For intermediate distance trips (between 16 and 65 miles), the Volt is the clear winner.......For long distances (greater than 65 to 75 miles), the Prius PHV again gains the advantage."
Of course, cost isn't the only reason people buy cars, even efficient cars. I personally prefer the Volt because of the better-than-Prius drive feel and styling. It fits my commute much better because my commute is ~25 miles per day, well within the Volt's battery-only range and optimal efficiency window as described above (16 to 65 miles). Plus I still have the option to use the car for longer weekend and vacation trips that a Nissan Leaf would not have the range to deliver.
The bottom line is: I am happy to see more Electric Vehicles on the road. The more the merrier. 

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

What could have been -- The EV1

If GM would have stuck with the EV1, instead of scrap them like we saw in "Who Killed the Electric Car?", I really wonder how much further we would be on electric cars today.



Check out this video on the EV1. It is nine minutes and tells a lot about the car. I notice the battery pack T-shaped design on the EV1 is used in the Volt today. Albeit with Lithium-Ion batteries in the Volt vs. the lead-acid in the EV1. I also noticed GM put a portable charger in the trunk and removed the spare just like the Volt today.

Enjoy the video and image what could have been.