The easiest way to get consumers interested in groundbreaking technologies is to offer products that they feel familiar with at affordable prices. When Chevrolet launched the range-extender Volt hybrid, it missed the part about reasonable pricing, as the electric-model that features an internal combustion engine to charge its on-board battery system kicked off at $40,000…after a $7,500 government subsidy. Last summer, GM slashed prices by $5,000 and now we learn that the second-generation model, set to appear in 2015, will start at even lower price point.
The news comes via Reuters, which sites unnamed supplier sources who said that the new 2016 Volt range will include a new lower-priced model with a smaller battery pack and shorter driving range, a move that mimics Tesla’s strategy with the Model S.
When asked about the report, Chevy spokesperson Mike Albano declined to comment on the story, and stated that, “Volt customers are the happiest customers in the world. We found a formula that works for them, and we’re not going to deviate from that formula.”
The supplier sources told the news agency that, while the standard Volt will likely continue to carry an entry price of around $35,000, the lesser-capable and without as many standard features base edition will start from just over $30,000, after taking into account the $7,500 federal tax break in both cases.
They added that the new Cruze-based Volt will go into production towards the end of next year at GM’s Detroit Hamtramck plant and that in standard ($35k) trim, it will offer a similar driving range to the current model at around 380 miles (611 km).
Note: Current Chevrolet Volt pictured
By John Halas
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