To commemorate General Motors' 110th birthday, the American manufacturer has lifted the veil on the much anticipated Chevrolet Volt.The
Chevrolet Volt is powered by an electric engine producing 150 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque. The energy required to power the engine is accumulated by
lithium-ion batteries . This drive train allows the Volt to reach a top speed of 160 km/h and to travel 64 km in electric mode. Past this distance, a combustion engine acts as a generator and provides the electricity required by the main engine, increasing the Volt's operating range by several hundred kilometres.
The Volt's batteries can be recharged in a 120-V or 240-V socket. When plugged into a 240-V socket, its charge time is an estimated three hours. With a 120-V socket, the batteries recharge in eight hours. GM says that if the Volt is recharged daily, it will consume less energy than a fridge!Based largely on the Volt Concept design presented at the Detroit Auto Show in 2007, the production Volt is, according to GM, one of the manufacturer's most aerodynamic vehicles. Inside, an LCD monitor replaces the usual instruments. In the middle of the dashboard lies a touch screen displaying the vehicle's information. For an extra fee, the Volt can be equipped with a
navigation system with hard drive.Production of the Volt will begin at the end of 2010. No prices have been announced.
photo: General Motors