Chevy Volt: The Hungry Green Machine  

The NAIAS has been in existence since 1907. While there is much enthusiasm in 2009, a bleak economy has restrained the usual glitz and glamour that usually accompanies the annual show held at the Cobo Center in Detroit.

The big three automakers are betting on electric vehicles to revive a crippling auto industry. The focus is on fuel efficient cars that are reasonably priced, and hopefully will soon become reliable for everyday usage. Are drivers willing to accept the limitations of plug-in hybrids?

General Motors Corp. is hoping that the Chevy Volt will generate enough interest to create a sustainable EV market. The Volt project seems problematic, since the manufacturing cost is high, and immediate profits will be small.

GM has decided to open a battery plant in Michigan, which will cost $30 million. The Chevy Volt lithium-ion battery contract will go to LG Chem  of South Korea.

Many citizens are wondering if the GM Volt will live up to all the hype. There are many questions that remain unanswered, or at best have garnered very vague responses. The high price tag, battery issues, low volume, low profit,  and competition are some of the complexities.

And the Chinese BYD  will inevitably be a major competitor in the race. Their car costs less to make and will have a more affordable price tag. Warren Buffett, one of the world’s leading investors, is investing $230 million in the BYD company. This is significant.