The chevy volt, pipe dream or a viable solution?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Topher925
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Pipe Volt
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the viability of the Chevy Volt as a solution to current automotive challenges, particularly in the context of hybrid technology and competition from other manufacturers like Toyota. Participants explore the engineering difficulties, market positioning, and future implications of the vehicle.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant highlights the challenges GM faces in developing a reliable battery and a new series-hybrid drive train, noting the complexity of such engineering tasks.
  • Another participant questions the credibility of the first speaker's experience, seeking clarification on their knowledge of the engineering difficulties mentioned.
  • A different viewpoint suggests that the Volt's price point of $40,000 may lead to its failure in the market, especially with Toyota planning a competitive plug-in Prius at a lower price.
  • Concerns are raised about the long-term viability of the Volt as a temporary solution until a hydrogen economy is developed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing opinions on the Chevy Volt's potential success and the competitive landscape, indicating that multiple competing views remain without a clear consensus on its viability.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference the competitive pricing strategies of other manufacturers and the engineering challenges without fully resolving the implications of these factors on the Volt's success.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in automotive engineering, hybrid technology, market competition in the automotive industry, and future energy solutions may find this discussion relevant.

Topher925
Messages
1,563
Reaction score
7
The new chevy volt design was unveiled today: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080916/ap_on_bi_ge/gm_centennial;_ylt=AuVoT6aLIov8pyZGWNXsNjxsaMYA"

There's a lot of controversy over this car in the engineering world. Since its being developed right in my neighborhood I hear a lot about its development. I think the car looks pretty sharp but GM has a lot of work ahead of them. They still need to find someone who can produce a half way descent battery let alone the monumental task of creating an entirely new series-hybrid drive train. I know first hand how difficult that can be.

They also have a lot of strict competition coming from Toyota who is set to build a similar series-hybrid to be released in 2010, and knowing Toyota they will probably do it at the cheapest price. With the price set at $30k-$40k would you buy one? I just can't see this being a very good band aid until we develop a hydrogen economy.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Engineering news on Phys.org
Topher925 said:
I know first hand how difficult that can be.

How do you know first hand?
 
Check the profile.
 
For $40,000.. it will be an epic fail. Toyota will modify their Prius to make it a plug-in and sell it for 10K less. Then they'll buy GM after their liabilities fall off in a few years.
 

Similar threads

Permanent Magnet Motors & Koenigsegg’s ‘Dark Matter’ Electric Motor
  • · Replies 0 ·
Replies
0
Views
2K
Is the Nissan Leaf a Better Choice than the Chevy Volt for Daily Use?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K