Audi of America president tries to solve the ‘Volt car for idiots’ issue
By Andrew C., 30 Aug, 2010. 0 Comments
2011 Chevrolet Volt
This is Audi of America president Johan de Nysschen's attempt to retract his earlier comment about the EV being patronized by idiots. In a statement, Nysschen said that the report had been picked up by many car forums and that it had 'left an unflattering sense' of his feelings towards electric vehicles and the people who support it. This time, he laid out his beliefs in a far more diplomatic way. He said, In my opinion, electric vehicles will be part of the future transportation of society but only if we go about it the right way. He also doesn't recall using the term 'car for idiots' during his conversation with the writer.
He said that he didn't want to give the impression that he is opposed to EVs. In fact, Audi itself is working on electric vehicles. Continued after the jump! He said that he merely questioned the feasibility of the Chevrolet Volt. He did point out a very valid point that mass electrification of the vehicles would lead to a strained electric grid.
He cited the California Air Resource Board's conclusion last April that electric vehicles presently are second only to hydrogen cars in greenhouse gas impact when measured on a well-to-wheel basis. He said that the 50% price increase that the Volt represents over a similar gasoline car cannot be offset through the savings from reduced fuel consumption. The only way to offset the extreme premium for the Volt is through taxpayer-funded subsidies. And that is what doesn't make sense. Do you agree? Should he be let off the hook?
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