NEW FOR 2012:
– All-new model
For 2012, the Chevrolet Volt is an all-new model and is GM’s first “range-extended” sedan.
The Volt always runs on electricity, initially supplied by plugging it into a wall socket and charging the battery. Once the battery is depleted, a small gasoline engine starts up and acts like a generator to produce electricity to power the electric motor. While the Volt must always run on electricity, it is capable of sending some mechanical torque from the gasoline engine to the wheels to supplement the electric motor when the battery is depleted and additional power is needed, such as when passing.
The Volt uses a 111-kilowatt electric motor with 1.4-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine. There is no conventional transmission; instead, it uses the electric drive. Recharging takes about four hours on 240-volt and 10 to 12 hours on 110-volt. The electric-drive range is approximately 40 to 80 kilometres, depending on driving conditions.
Standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, charging cord, CD/MP3 stereo, navigation system, auxiliary input and USB port, XM satellite radio, cargo cover, touch-sensitive centre stack controls, cruise control, seven-inch LCD display screen with driveline and battery information, floor mats, keyless entry with pushbutton start, variable intermittent wipers, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, heated mirrors, rear spoiler, OnStar, remote starter, cloth seats, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, tire pressure monitoring system, garage door opener, illuminated vanity mirrors, and auto up/down driver’s window.
