The iCar Is a New Hybrid Car That Breaks the Umbilical Cord Between the Gas Tank and the Automobile

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In 2006, GM was working on a car that would go so far on the battery drivers won't even perceive it as a gasoline powered car because most of the time they'll be plugging it in. In 2007, after briefing some reporters in secret ahead of time, they announced the Chevy Volt. They're expecting it to pop, but they don't expect what actually happens. Here's what you need to bear in mind, these car shows are full of concept cars. Every major car maker brings its latest car of the future and its latest nifty gadgets.

Jonathan Rauch, of the Brookings Institution and the Atlantic Monthly, talks with EconTalk host Russ Roberts about the evolution of the Chevy Volt, GM's planned electric car. Due to the transparency of GM's effort, Rauch was able to spend a great deal of time on site at GM writing a piece for the Atlantic Monthly on GM's plans and hopes. Rauch discusses the huge risks, GM's past failures, and GM's hopes that the Volt might change the company's culture. The conversation closes with a discussion of competitors and the implications for energy policy.