Famous comedian and Tonight Show host Jay Leno arrived in Detroit Monday night ahead of free performances he’s giving Tuesday and Wednesday night to show support and solidarity for the beleaguered city. His so-called “Comedy Stimulus Package” is for “anyone out of work in Detroit,” said Leno. “The idea is: ‘Come on down. Forget your troubles … and meet other people in your situation.” On Tuesday thousands lined up in cold and snow to attend the show, in which he launched a freewheeling 80 minute monologue.
While in town, Leno spent time on Tuesday visiting GM’s facilities. Leno is a vigorous auto enthusiast and has specific interest in electric vehicles. He is also an ardent and specific supporter of US automakers and the US auto industry. He has most recently bought a new Corvette and Challenger and owns one of the original Baker electric cars built in 1909. He also currently has in his possession GM’s fuel cell Equinox and a MINI E.
While at the GM facilities, Leno was given the chance to test drive one of the current Cruze-body Chevy Volt mule vehicles. He was accompanied by Ed Welburn, GM’s VP of Design, shown above with Jay.
Leno had previously noted “I think you’ll find that the Volt will be a superior package to the Prius,” and that he “would love to be” one of the first to test drive the Volt in real-world conditions.
He was said to rave about the Volt experience. “I’m not an engineer but I know enough … and I saw some impressive technology out there,” he said.
I was able obtain a firsthand report of the event from Mr. Welburn. “Jay and I had a great morning. He and I toured the Volt studio where he saw the final details of the production Volt. He then drove the car and visited the battery lab,” said Welburn. “I can’t speak for Jay, but I sure enjoyed it.”
For those of you who wonder if and when I will have a chance to drive the mule, don’t sweat it, every dog has his day.