Honda has the best all-around power options for public choice, including a natural gas model.

Toyota held off a long time. After all, it was first with the hybrid concept in a small car. Then came the Chevy Volt with a longer electrical range, but with a recharge capability.

Toyota now joins the Li-ion ranks with its plug-in version of th egreat selling hybrid. The longer version known as the V will be 300 pounds heavier, but Toyota says the system can handle the upscale.

The Chevy Volt is in a class all by itself. It's not a traditional hybrid in that its drive is always fully electric. However, its generator is ICE driven, and the public has been aware of that, but less aware of the seating.

The interior, nonetheless, will be finally judged by the public at 2011 NAIAS. Will it be enough? Other small cars may be tight in the rear-center seat position, but at least there is one.

Was the limit due to the battery? And will the public accept that limit?

Perhaps we have an answer in that CEO Akerman stated there might be a MPV with Volt technology in the future.

The paint may not be production, but one can only hope. The Ford Focus platform is versatile enough to handle EcoBoost engines and EV.

My choice as candidate for TorqueNews.com best paint at show.

The Chevrolet Sonic has many choices of body style, all on the same platform, of course.

My take on conversation with GM's John Mack is that GM could use the platform for EV like the Focus. Will that or a nat-gas version be in GM's plans? TBD at this point, but an HCCI engine would make sense.

Sergio Marchionne has impressed investors since taking over as CEO in June, 2004. Likewise, the Fiat brand impresses America with its own brand of small car.