Note: For more from Alexandra, visit the "Ask Alexandra" tab on the Chevrolet Volt Facebook page.

Any remaining preconceptions that plug-in cars are for sissies will be dispelled when you read the way NASCAR driver Juan Pablo Montoya talk about his new Volt. A former Formula One Indianopolis 500 winner, JPMis now the first foreign born driver to win multiple races in the NASCAR elite series and one of only 3 drivers to win in Formula 1, IndyCar and NASCAR Sprint Cup.

Devoted father of three, JPM lives in Miami with his wife, Connie, and he graciously found the time to answer my questions about his Volt. He also sent along family snapshots with his new car. 

1) You are a man who appreciates high performance cars, to say the least. What do you think about the handling of the Volt?

The Volt doesn’t handle any different than any other sporty compact vehicle I have driven. It is comfortable, very quiet and has great acceleration. Overall, Chevrolet built a great car inside and out.

2) What are your two favorite aspects of the car?

It’s great for short trips around Miami because I literally use no fuel. I’ll take my son Sebastian to school in it, and it’s my first option for anything around town. The Volt also has all the extras you’d receive with a luxury car: premium trim package, and all the cool gadgets (OnStar, XM, bluetooth, USB for the ipod, smartphone app. etc...).

3) How much electric range are you getting in your Volt?

Well, I’ve only had the vehicle for a little over a month now. I think I’m getting approximately 40 miles on electric.

4) You have three young children. Do you think plug-in cars are the wave of the future?

It’s hard to say. I think cost-wise it’s a little out of range for people at this point. I know it pays off in the end with what you save on fuel, but the upfront cost might deter people from heading in this direction.

The process of charging the car surprised me. I thought it would be a lot more complex than what it really is. Also, the upgrades that come with the car are fantastic.

6) What are the reactions of your friends, family and fans to the Volt?

I think it surprised a lot of people, to tell you the truth. My wife laughed when I first got the car, because we drove to a Miami Heat game in the car and people around us were in BMWs, Mercedes, Lamborghinis, etc. It’s a fun, practical car for me.

7) Is there anything else you would like say about the car or the technology?

The Volt is a very different concept. It's an amazing-looking car for what it is. I like it and I’m having fun driving it.

Alexandra Paul is a longtime electric vehicle advocate, actress and former EV1 driver. She is working with Chevrolet to educate consumers about EVs and the Volt. Full disclosure, Chevrolet is paying her for her time, but her opinions will always be hers.

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