The new, second-generation 2016 Chevrolet Volt, which is set to go on sale in Canada this fall, will offer a range of 85 kilometres in fully electric mode. That’s an improvement of around 40% from the outgoing model, GM announced.
“We listened to our customers,” said Andrew Farah, vehicle chief engineer. “They were very clear when they told us that they wanted more range, and a fun driving experience behind the wheel. We are confident that the 2016 Volt delivers both.”
Since they use battery power on 80% of their trips, typical Volt drivers will be able to travel more than 1,600 kilometres between gas fill-ups. A new 1.5L 4-cylinder engine/generator (the old one was a 1.4L unit) will take over when the equally new 18.4kWh lithium-ion battery is about to run empty.
GM data shows that drivers of the first-generation Volt achieved, and often exceeded, the published EPA-estimated mileage. The company expects the same label-exceeding result with the new model.
In Canada, the 2016 Volt will start at $38,390. However, buyers can expect to pay as little as $29,890 after the full provincial incentive (up to $8,500).