Chevrolet Volt ready to reach the market

Chevrolet has presented the 2011 Volt, the brand’s electric vehicle with extend range that is set to reach the market before the end of 2010. With its five door vehicle Chevrolet wants to offer the benefits of an electric vehicle without the range limitations, which have been associated with other electric vehicles in the market.

“The Chevrolet Volt can be the only car you own,” said Mark Reuss, president, GM North America. “The Volt delivers it all: a revolutionary propulsion system, progressive styling, industry-leading safety, premium amenities and user-friendly technologies, and spirited driving dynamics.”

The Volt is powered by GM’s Voltec propulsion system, consisting of a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and electric drive unit, which provide pure electric range between 25 and 50 miles. The range is extended up to 350 miles thanks to a 1.4-litre petrol engine, which operates the vehicle’s electric drive system until the car can be plugged in and recharged or refueled. This is what distinguishes the Volt from electric-only cars, as they cannot be operated when recharging is not immediately available.

The Volt proves that electric cars can also offer driving pleasure. Not only does the Volt reach a top speed of 160km/h (100 mph), the electric drive unit’s excellent low speed torque of 273 lb.-ft. (368 Nm) gives it the ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 9.0 seconds and to drive the quarter mile in less than 17.0 seconds.

The Volt’s battery can be charged either through 120V conventional household electrical outlets, or through a dedicated 240V charging station. The vehicle is completely rechargeable in about four hours using a 240V outlet and 10 to 12 hours in a 120V outlet.

“The Volt is a revolutionary car, and we wanted the design to make as sleek and dynamic a statement as possible,” said Bob Boniface, director of design. “When you look at this car, it’s very technical and refined in its execution, with lots of interrelating surfaces that bring clean, crisp edges and creases.”

GM engineers worked very close with aerodynamicists in the wind tunnel in order to shape the Volt. Thanks to it designers and engineers at GM were able to develop the most aerodynamic vehicle in Chevrolet’s history. Reducing the energy needed to overcome air resistance, Volt aerodynamicists were able to contribute with estimated eight miles of electric range, and 50 miles of extended range. 

The Volt’s rounded and flush front fascia, tapered corners and grille enable air to move easily around the car to reduce drag. In the rear, sharp edges and a carefully designed spoiler control air flow. The rake on the windshield and back glass also helps reduce turbulence and drag.