Volt to achieve 230 mpg in the city

Updated, April 8, 2012

So now its all about city fuel economy?

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Editor's Note -- This article was written in 2009. Since Volt sales have come up short and claims of 230 mpg's are almost haunting. Was the Volt over-hyped? Were claims of 230 mpg irresponsible?

230 miles per gallon. That's an impressive number for the Chevy Volt's city fuel economy. Still, I can't help but ask, Why is it when GM markets the fuel economy of all its other 30 mpg vehicles, it's always highway fuel economy that is the standard?

Nonetheless, there was never a doubt that the Volt would achieve stellar numbers on the EPA's city cycle. In the city, the Chevy Volt is essentially an electric vehicle. Makes me wonder, what's the fuel economy of the Tesla Roadster, since it NEVER uses gasoline?

Unlimited miles per gallon?

Inevitably, as electric vehicles become more common, it seems the EPA's methodology becomes more and more obsolete - if it already isn't obsolete.

Regardless, a consumer can still buy a 50 mpg Toyota Prius, pay for its lifetime fuel use, and still save thousands compared to the Volt - and that's after a $7500 tax credit. If the government doesn't extend tax credits for the Volt, it's cost-effectiveness becomes, well, nonexistent.

Hopefully, by the second or third generation Volt, GM will be able to bring down the costs of the Volt to make it more cost-effective for average Americans. In the interim 230 mpg will still provide a lot of bragging rights for Volt early adopters.

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Labels: Chevy Volt electric vehicle concept