Lately, Maximum Bob Lutz was reported saying that the price of the Chevrolet Volt could reach about $48,000. Lutz said that $40, 00 would be possible only if GM doesn’t make a dime on the car. Government incentives are expected to bring the price closer to the $30,000 range.

GM-Volt.com, a site not owned by GM, is running a virtual waiting list showing the interest that people have in purchasing GM’s upcoming electric car. As of May 5th, 20,000 people have signed up saying that they would purchase the Volt when it arrives in 2010.

When it arrives in 2010, the Chevrolet Volt is expected to be powered by a 160-hp electric motor that will allow it run on electricity for up to 40 miles. With the use of gasoline, the car can travel a range of about 400 miles.

Over 20,000 people have expressed their interest in purchasing GM’s electric car, the Chevy Volt when it arrives in 2010. They have all signed up on the grass-roots waiting list managed by the Volts’ leading enthusiast website GM-Volt.com.

The Chevy Volt concept was first unveiled by General Motors in January 2007. It is a sleek and sporty 4-passenger car than can drive for up to 40 miles on pure electricity, powered by a 160 hp electric motor. Beyond that distance, the car uses an on-board back-up gasoline generator which will keep the batteries charged for a total range of about 400 miles.

GM-Volt.com was created in response to GM’s initial announcement to concentrate public opinion on the Volt’s development and to help ensure the concept didn’t die.

The site’s founder is Dr. Lyle Dennis, a New York area neurologist who advocates the country shifting from petroleum use.

Source: GM-Volt