[NVDave]

Their press release:

http://media.gm.com/content/media/us/en/news/news_detail.brand_gm.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2010/Oct/1010_volt_launch

Applicable quote:

“The Chevrolet Volt is not a hybrid. It is a one-of-a-kind, all-electrically driven vehicle designed and engineered to operate in all climates.”

GM’s response as of yesterday is: “There is no direct mechanical connection (fixed gear ratio) between the Volt’s extended-range 1.4L engine and the drive wheels.”

Uh... in engineering, we don’t draw distinctions between fixed and variable gear ratios when we talk about “mechanical connection.” Does the force being applied to the drivetrain originate only in the electrical motor? Then it is an “all electrical drive.” Does any of the force being applied to the drivetrain originate in anything other than the electrical motor(s)? Well then, it isn’t “all electrically driven.”

That word “all” means that there is “nothing else.” And there, they’re not telling the truth.

[SeeSac]

Does the force being applied to the drivetrain originate only in the electrical motor? Then it is an “all electrical drive.”

Under about 65 mph that is true.

[SeeSac]

Uh... in engineering, we don’t draw distinctions between fixed and variable gear ratios when we talk about “mechanical connection.”

Who's talking about variable gear ratios?