I agree, and here is the government's classification for an EV:
Government's definition of an Electric Drive Vehicle:
- The vehicle must be made by a manufacturer (i.e., it doesn't include conventional vehicles converted to electric drive).
- It must be treated as a motor vehicle for purposes of title II of the Clean Air Act.
- It must have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of not more than 14,000 lbs.
- It must be propelled to a significant extent by an electric motor which draws electricity from a battery which
- has a capacity of not less than 4 kilowatt hours and
- is capable of being recharged from an external source of electricity.
Meeting that criteria means it is eligible for the $7500 Electric Drive Vehicle federal incentive.
Now, here is how the Government defines a hybrid:
Hybrid vehicles have drive trains powered by both internal combustion engine and a rechargeable battery.
It could be argued that it fits both Government definitions. But, the government only allows one energy efficient vehicle incentive, so your vehicle get's classified in the highest incentive category it qualifies for.
So, Uncle Sam calls the Volt..... an Electric Drive Vehicle.