GM Is Not Sparking Enough Interest in EV1

I drive an EV1 myself, and I am constantly approached by people who are curious and excited about it [“Electric Car Owner Spots GM Some Ads,” May 22]. What shocks me is how often people are surprised to hear the car is real, that there are charging stations all over Los Angeles and that it’s not an “exclusive” or waiting-list type of car. Anyone can get one.

That’s where GM is dropping the ball. In the past six months, GM has not advertised the EV1 in Southern California at all. The article quotes EV1 brand manager Frank Pierra saying, “This car is not for everyone.” While I admit not everyone can live with a two-seater, many people can and do.

Pierra emphasized the EV1’s $399-a-month lease as being prohibitive. What he didn’t mention is the inherent savings will bring the cost down.

EV1 drivers don’t spend $75 a month on gasoline, don’t pay for tune-ups, oil changes, smog inspections and “regular maintenance.” That adds up to a lot of savings over the course of a year.

GM is limited by its bureaucracy and “tradition,” thinking they can only sell the EV1 to “technology-minded people,” and they are severely limiting this car’s potential and future.

BRETT DEWEY

Sherman Oaks