LaFontaine Sells Chevrolet Volt to Sen. Carl Levin

Leading the charge on alternative vehicle ownership, U.S. Sen. Carl Levin (D-MI) picked up his new four-door silver Chevrolet Volt at on Friday in Dexter.

Levin, who previously leased his car, said he jumped at the opportunity to purchase the $41,000 Volt.

“It’s the most advanced technology in the world, and it’s made in America,” he said. “I can’t think of a better car than a car which has the capabilities that are the future capabilities. I want an American car with what I consider future technologies.”

Levin said he has been on the waiting list to receive his Volt for six months.

The Volt is an electric car that uses both gasoline and electricity. It averages 40 miles on a full electric charge.

Matt LaFontaine, general manager for the dealership, said Levin received one of the first two Volts delivered to the dealership.

“We’re proud of the fact that Senator Levin is buying from us in Dexter. Obviously, he’s a big supporter of the auto industry,” LaFontaine said.

The purchase comes just in advance of the dealership's plans to break ground this month on a $7 million expansion. The new 32,000-square-foot building will replace two buildings on the property and will include upgrades such as 22 service bays (versus the current 9), new landscaping and lighting, stormwater retention and a car wash.

Village Trustee Paul Cousins said Levin’s purchase is a great investment in new technology, the LaFontaine dealership and the village of Dexter.

“Tell me something that’s bad about this deal,” Cousins said.

LaFontaine said that in order to sell the Volt, staff and sales crews had to go through extensive training through General Motors Corp.

“Not every dealership is a certified Volt dealer,” he said. “I’m proud of the fact that we received 100 percent certification a week ago.”

“I tell people that General Motors is celebrating their 100th anniversary this year, and it has served thousands of clients. Now we can add Mother Nature to that list,” LaFontaine said.

John Edwards, who sold the vehicle to Levin, said this was his first time closing a deal with a senator.

“I’ve worked with a lot of celebrities and judges, but Senator Levin is my first politician to work with,” he said.

LaFontaine said the dealership has about 25 more clients awaiting delivery of the Volt.