Jones Beene wrote:
Chevy Volt and the Electric Grid: Drive 15,000 Miles for $73
... if this were true (which it isn't) the average buyer could save
about $2,200 per year . . .
As Terry pointed out, it is likely to be more like $500. But that is
only $427 more; the average buyer saves $1,773. So it hardly affects
your conclusion.
- if she never used the onboard engine (which is possible, but not likely).
Well, a lot of people have short commutes and would hardly ever use
the engine, but they would not be likely to drive 15,000 miles per
year (41 miles per day). But it would not be cost effective for them.
I think the point was that if you drive, let's say, 50 miles per day,
for the first 40 miles (or 15,000 miles per year), it cost ~$1.40 per
day or ~$500 per year (not $74). After 40 miles it gets expensive.
I think everyone understands pricing and mpg estimates will be
complicated. MPG estimates for the Prius are also complicated. The
mpg varies from ~44 to ~80 in my experience, depending on where you
drive, how you drive, how long you drive, what the ambient
temperature is and other factors. An ordinary ICE-only car has much
more predictable performance.
(Note that when I drive a car, I seem to have an uncanny ability to
achieve the EPA mpg rating within 1 or 2 mpg. People often complain
that cars do not achieve the rated capability, but I have not had
that problem.)
- Jed
