GM gets it right by asking bloggers to review Chevrolet Volt in daily use

GM has endured a winding road on its way back to profitability, and it seems the company is embracing the social web when it comes to the Chevrolet Volt. The company is running a 3 month test with 15 individuals it has picked for technology and electric car moguls and calling the team a Customer Advisory Board. Each member will receive a production Chevrolet Volt and provide feedback back to GM. That’s a good move for a couple of reasons.

It has the potential to provide legitimacy to GM’s claims on reliability and fuel efficiency with the Chevrolet Volt. Some of those selected have extensive experience in the industry and who have opinions developed by long term participation, while others are newer to the electric vehicle enthusiast scene.

Connecting with the Customer Advisory Board also has the potential to build publicity and goodwill online as the participants talk with their contact base about their experience, joys and frustrations. It’s important to note though, that the experience the Customer Advisory Board enjoys won’t mimic and average driver. According to the press release:

Volt Customer Advisory Board members will receive product training, a home electric evaluation and a no-cost installation of a 240-volt charging station to be used for the duration of the vehicle evaluation program . . .

Each member will also be assigned a Volt Customer Relations Manager for personal service and attention.

That’s quite a bit more attention than a typical driver will receive, and those participating already have a background in how the cars should function. They also have a sympathetic heart for GM because they truly want plug-in hybrid electric cars to succeed. GM may encounter several rounds of those buyers as initial pent up demand soaks up initial production Chevrolet Volts. But, eventually the company will need to provide an experience and product digestible by the average consumer.

Hopefully this program is a step in that direction, and GM will continue to pay close attention to what it’s customers are wanting. It’s a pleasant change in direction compared with its intrepid past which focused overbearingly on the bottom line.