Nothing that stands as wide with such distinct lines and untested shapes as the Volt concept gets even average fuel efficiency, never mind 40 miles on an electric charge alone, as is promised for the extended range vehicle from the Detroit automaker. It shouldn't come as a surprise that the production Volt isn't charged with the stylish sex appeal that many had hoped. But it shouldn't be devoid of it either. Unfortunately, it is. The Volt looks like a GM Prius, which followed the rollout last week of the Honda Prius, all paying design homage to the real deal, the Toyota Prius. The Volt, much like the concept Honda Insight hybrid that the Japanese automaker unveiled in advance of the Paris auto show and the hybrid Toyota Prius, share a similar shape. And that's no accident. When placed in a wind tunnel with the dial set for 'maximum mileage,' a lowered front end, narrow body style is sculpted. Toyota figured that out a decade ago. GM is banking on higher technology underpinnings to surpass the Prius in its own green game. Mileage is bottom lineAnd frankly, in the end, that's what it's all about. What's underneath the vehicle, the lithium-ion power pack and its space-age systems are more important than what's outside. Sure it looks underwhelming and boring and bland. But for many, the Volt's extended range capability will compensate for its average appearance. In fact, some have pledged that if it delivered on its mileage promises they'd buy it even if it looked like an Aztek. Let's not get carried away. We'll see if the 'accidentally' released photos prove accurate on Tuesday when GM is expected to officially unveil the car to the public at the automaker's centennial celebration. Or if the company can continue to generate as much buzz from the PR-hype patrol now that the wraps are off the design. GM can do that by delivering the real deal to keep the Volt, and GM, from coming completely unplugged. Auto Editor Manny Lopez's column runs on Wednesday. Reach him at (313) 222-2536 or [email protected].