Quote:
Originally Posted by DGthe3
Yes it is, there are 2 types of hyrbid. Its just that the Volt is a series hybrid not a parallel hybrid. Series have two systems connected one after the other while a parallel system allows for one, the other, or both in conjuction to propel the vehicle. If you want to call it an electric vehicle, then call the Prius an EV too, since it can drive on battery power alone for a certain range and speed on electricity alone then the gas engine kicks in if you want to go farther for the 'range extended capability'. Same broad descriptions as the Volt, yet nobody would consider calling the Prius an electric car, yet the Volt somehow is an electric car.
I have no problems with GM kicking Toyotas ass at the hybrid game, but I can't figure out why GM's management doesn't want to highlight this and instead wants to lessen the Volt by referring to it as an EV. Makes no sense.
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Referring to the Volt as an EV in no way lessens it. Calling it a hybrid would make people want to compare it to the Prius, which the Volt outclasses in pretty much every dimension. The reason the Volt is considered a fully electric car is due to its 40 mile EV range. The Prius's EV range is extremely limited by a variety of factors. Plus, the Prius uses both the electric and gasoline motors to drive the car the majority of the time. Volt uses only the electric motor to drive the car.