Doubling the complexity of the drivetrain, adding the weight of batteries, the cost of charging and fuel, all seems to be building a car more for PR than efficiency. TDI diesel with every Nav system and electronic junkie's dream interior would run 30k. At 50mpg it would only cost 6k in fuel at 15000 a year driving and 4 dollar diesel. In the very long run the Volt may be cheaper, but I would bet on the diesel holding together longer. All that being said, the wife thinks they are cute and would consider buying one in a few years. It's her money, she can blow it however she wants.
