Pop Quiz: What's An EV?Pop Quiz: What's An EV?

DN Staff

May 15, 2010

1 Min Read
Pop Quiz: What's An EV?

Do you really know what an electric car is?

Most consumers don’t, simply because the definition of the term “electric car” is getting so slippery. The Chevy Volt, for example, is called an electric car by GM, but it also happens to have an on-board internal combustion engine.

Auto makers fear the confusion could cause problems for buyers of pure, battery-powered electric cars. That’s why, says The Wall Street Journal, manufacturers are starting to quiz drivers before selling them a car. The little tests could become more important as Nissan and others approach the rollout of their EVs.

“Car makers rolling out electric cars, including BMW, Chevrolet and Nissan, aren’t just handing them over to anyone who walks in the dealership,” the newspaper writes. “Sounding more like matchmakers than sellers of durable goods, car companies say they want to make sure they find the right kind of buyers. There will be questionnaires and interviews. It gets personal. Let’s talk about your driving habits. Can you provide the car with a good home? You’ll need a garage, the right kind of electrical service and a fair bit of patience.”

If my e-mail is any indication, the car makers are on the right track. I’ve repeatedly received notes from people who think the Prius is an electric car and from others (even editors) who don’t know the technical difference between the Volt and the EV1.

So if you’re planning to buy an EV, get ready. Dealerships may spring a pop quiz.   

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