According to The New York Times "Wheels" blog, dealers in the early Volt markets of California, Texas, Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Washington, D.C., are adding a premium -- sometimes several thousand dollars -- to the Volt's already significant $41,000 price tag (which drops to $33,500 after the $7,500 federal tax credit).

Despite the fact that GM has discouraged its dealers from deviating from the manufacturer's suggested retail price (by law, though, the manufacturer can't dictate the price at which dealers may sell the vehicles), many are finding it hard to turn down the extra cash. How much markup, you ask? According to the "Wheels" blog report, one Maryland dealer is quoted as saying, "The consensus has settled around $50,000 for the base model, up to $53,000 with the higher equipment level.” That's nothing compared with one dealership in California, which responded to a request for lease information by responding that the asking price is MSRP plus $20,000.

Early adopters aren't exactly known for their restraint, nor for bargain-hunting, but 20 freaking grand on top of a $41,000 price tag for a Volt seems certifiable to me.