GM is hoping to erase all fears about the lifespan of electric car batteries by offering a standard eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty on the Chevy Volt's battery pack.  The warranty also allows the driver to transfer it to another vehicle owner at no cost within that timeframe.

By having the Volt battery come with a long-term warranty, GM is aiming to assure consumers of the durability of the Volt and other electric cars. As GM said in the press release, "all battery components [are] validated to withstand extreme temperatures, terrain and driving patterns."  With a solid warranty to back that statement up, hopefully more consumers will be willing to buy the Volt or other PHEVs.

As smart of a publicity move this was by GM, it's also great for us consumers.  Much like how Nissan's affordable price tag on the LEAF has set the bar for EV pricing, this offer by GM will likely force other car companies to follow suit and include similar warranties on their EVs and PHEVs.

via GoodCleanTech