You know, I considered the Volt as well, but I nixed it. Here's why. I'm a commuter. So I don't need extended range. If I do, then I'll drive my Highlander. What I want is a simple, FULLY electric car. The Volt gives you a combination gas plus an Electric engine, which means it's quite a bit more complex than a 100% electric car. Complexity at this stage means increased maintenance costs over the life of the car in addition to increased upfront purchase costs. That makes the cost/benefit much less appealing to me as compared to the Nissan Leaf or Ford Focus EV. That is why I don't even need to test drive the Volt to know I will not buy one. Some other people may feel more range anxiety than me and feel the extra $9K to assuage that anxiety is worth it. I do not.
So am I surprised that the Volt has declining demand whereas all indications are the Leaf can't produce enough to fulfill demand yet? No, I am not surprised.
Now, if we start seeing declining demand for the 100% EV cars, then I would be surprised, and yes, disappointed. Keep in mind, though, this is a marathon, not a sprint. It will take decades for EVs to reach critical mass, meaning 50% or more market share, since car purchases are a big deal in most families due to the high cost of any vehicle relative to income. |
