Gingrich Gets it Wrong on Chevy Volt's Gun Rack Capacity

Campaigning in Georgia, Republican Presidential nominee Newt Gingrich took a shot at the Chevy Volt and the Obama administration's plan to revive the U.S. auto industry around electric vehicles.

In his speech, Gingrich calls the Volt an "interesting experimental car."  He goes on to say the average annual income of those purchasing the plug-in electric hybrid vehicle is $170,000.  He then criticizes the White House's plan to increase the subsidies for those purchasing Volts from $7,000 to $10,000. 

Questioning Obama's populist platform, Gingrich says that kind of subsidization would go a long way if it were offered, not to the elite of society, but rather to Americans looking to purchase a second-hand vehicle.

Taking one final shot at the Chevy Volt and energy efficient vehicles, Gingrich said, "Here's my point:  you can't put a gun rack in a Volt."  HIs deadpan statement received rousing laughter and applause from those in attendance.

Although humorous, Gingrich's remarks seem to not only be false, but also miss the point of the vehicle's creation.  In an emailed response to USA Today, Chevy spokesperson Rob Peterson said, "Fuel efficiency -- not the availability of a gun rack -- is one of the top purchase considerations for all new vehicles."  Peterson further added, "If accessories for the Volt are that important to Mr. Gingrich, we'll gladly send him a product brochure."

Chevy may not have to go that far, as incensed Volt owner has posted a video on YouTube which not only dispels Mr. Gingrich's gun rack statements, but offers some do it yourself installation tips.