Malibu/Volt hybrids on the road in 2008

Don't expect the Volt to look like this

Pay attention in the first quarter of 2008, Bob Lutz told an audience of media members on the eve of the Los Angeles Auto Show, that's when a few Malibu bodies will be welded onto a few Chevy Volt frames to begin fully testing these potentially amazing plug-in hybrid vehicles.

Why add a Malibu body to the hot looking Volt? According to Lutz, the Concept Volt's performance in the wind tunnel was a "cruel disappointment". But that's not the real reason. Yes, the Volt body needs some refinement, but the Volt body is hand built right now. Thus, a Malibu body provides a great interim test body.

Still, Mr. Lutz expects the vehicle to achieve 40-45 mpg on electric power. Additionally, Lutz believes that electric vehicles, such as the Volt, are game changers that will, ultimately, enable automakers to abandon conventional automotive technology.