(October 18, 2012) LOS ANGELES — Coda Automotive, a developer of all-electric vehicles, announced this week it is offering California consumers 10,000 miles of free fuel through a $552 rebate with the purchase of a 2012 Coda in October.

“With gas prices this high in California, this is the perfect opportunity to spell out the extremely low operating costs electric vehicles have to consumers,” said Thomas Hausch, Coda senior vice president of sales, marketing and after sales.

“When comparing vehicles, the total cost of ownership (TCO) is critical to consider, along with the purchase price, as it provides a comprehensive view of the bottom line. Once consumers review these factors and in turn, discover the benefits of an EV — including significantly lower maintenance costs, avoiding high gas prices completely, low electricity prices, access to the carpool lane, various tax incentives and more — going electric in today’s climate makes a lot of sense. It makes you think: When has cutting edge technology been more affordable than the ‘old school’ version it replaces soon after its introduction?”

The offer contrasts the low fueling costs of EVs compared to high costs associated with internal combustion engine vehicles. The cost to drive a Coda 10,000 miles is approximately $552 in electricity; the fuel cost to drive a gasoline- or diesel-powered vehicle is approximately $1,723 nationally, or more than $2,000 in California.

Coda says its new car is the first all-electric five-passenger, compact sedan with full rear seating and trunk space that meets American drivers’ daily transportation needs without an ounce of gasoline:

Coda also claims best-in-class driving range: The 31kWh 2012 Coda mileage vehicle features an EPA rated combined range of 88 miles per charge. Depending on driving habits and other factors, it can be driven up to 125 miles on a single charge, nearly four times the average daily commute.

Also fast and easy recharging: A 6.6kW onboard charging capability provides a full charge in about six hours on 240 V (Level 2 EVSE) (3) .

Available now in California: The 31kWh 2012 Coda has a MSRP of $37,250. In California, federal and individual state tax saving and credits may bring the price down to $27,250 before the promotion.

Coda’s 10,000 free miles promotion is a point-of-sale instant rebate of $552 and is available through Coda dealers through Oct. 31.