[FroggyTheGremlim]

I saw no mention in this article to things other than "travel" costs.

For example, there is no mention of such items as "comfort" costs. Will the Chevvy Volt be air-conditioned? If so, how will that affect the energy cost per mile traveled? How many kilowatt hours will be required to cool a vehicle to, say 75 degrees, in sunny California where the external temperature is, say 90?

Other things, like heaters in colder weather, which must be electric because there is no heat generated automatically by the engine as in a gas-fueled vehicle. Anyone with electric heat in a home knows the cost of this. How would electric heating affect the Volt's mileage?

[The Great RJ]

I had the same question about the "cost" of running normal auto accessories. In doing some research in the fine print apparently the Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf do have air conditioning. However, using the air conditioning defroster, heater or windshield wipers may reduce range by about 20%. Even using the sound system may reduce the range 10%. One also has to consider the effect of air temperature. My wife's hybrid sees a decreasing in mileage of about 20-25% when temperatures are below freezing.

To put all this in perspective if you are planning a commute in your electric car of 30 miles with temperatures around freezing with slushy snow requiring the use of wipers, heater and defroster I would not be listening to the stereo and would have cab fare ready.

[pankot]

Had electric heat years back. Cost an arm and a leg!

[MediaMole]

The Volt is a gas-electric hybrid. It will use the gas engine to provide power for that air conditioner or heater.

Selling the Volt as an electric car is just a blatant lie. It is a hybrid, just like the Prius. The only difference is that the Volt can be plugged in to recharge the batteries.