GM dealerships now able to sell their Chevrolet Volt demo models

General Motors dealerships can opt to sell their Chevrolet Volt demonstration models to increase the availability of the plug-in hybrid. GM delivered the notifications to its dealers today. In past times, the manufacturer has required dealers to maintaina minimum of one Volt as a demo model to enablecustomers to experiencethe innovations together withto stir interest in other fuel-efficient models in the showroom like the Chevrolet Cruze. The decisionto let go of the 2,300 demos on dealer lots comes asthe manufacturer is facing a steep curve in meeting its observed at close rangegoal 10,000 Volt sales this 2011.

Through October, the manufacturer had sold 5,003 units. Dan Akerson, GM chief executive officer, has mentioned the 10,000-unit goal. He also underlined the need for the company to lead when it comes to innovation and to spread the Volt technology across the company's brands. GM released the Volt in December in only seven markets. Since July, the company has been rolling out the vehicle nationally, and it is now close to its goal of 2,600 dealers in all states. However, many dealers have only received one Volt and must keep it as a demo version.

GM has mentioned in a memo sent to the dealers that many of them have requested to sell the demo version in order to meet customer demand. Spokesperson for GM, Tom Henderson, stated that the company is "giving them the choice to satisfy their clients and the flexibility to meetpent-up demand." This move will boost the quantity of Volts available for sale from 1,800 to 4,100, Henderson disclosed. There are also 1,100 units that are currently in transit. The manufacturer will reimburse $1,500 to the dealers as compensation for the depreciation and for the cost of removing some decals from the demo models. Henderson further stated that to help the dealers to qualify for the payment, they must sell their demo vehicles by January 3. [via : Autonews]
Photo : 2011 Chevrolet Volt