I recently learned that it's not a true electric but rather a hybrid since it has an ICE backup. Was the original plan all electric? I actually like the idea of a gas engine as a backup.

I'm hearing a lot of hype since it's nearing its release date. Read that all preorders have been filled with a long waiting list (or something to that effect). Will it be any better than the current hyrbrids such as the Prius?

I think it looks way better than the Nissan Leaf.

Btw, my 1st-generation Honda Insight (CVT model) got a range of 511 miles with a 9.9 gallon fill-up. The average on the car's computer said 54mpg for that mileage. Time between fill up was 31 days, driving was 95% city with the usual stop signs/lights with speed between 0-45 +/-5. My higest mpg at one point was 76 mpg.