THE MOST TECHNOLOGICALLY advanced Chevrolet in history is propelled by a 150-hp permanent-magnet AC motor and powered by an advanced lithium-ion battery pack. After 40 miles or so of driving, a 1.4-liter engine automatically starts to spin a generator that extends driving range another 300 miles before refueling is necessary. Canny electronic circuits are programmed to provide the Volt with strong acceleration, swift passing, and effi cient cruising. During braking, the electric motor serves as a generator to partially recharge the battery pack.
The Volt is electrically driven, because drawing energy from the grid instead of a gas pump costs onesixth as much and eliminates tailpipe emissions. The Volt’s low-drag body and seventeen-inch low-rolling-resistance tires are engineered for maximum effi ciency.
Recharging is painless. A standard 120-volt outlet will top off a totally depleted battery pack in ten hours; a 240-volt connection does that job in four hours.
The Volt is anything but an escapee from the science lab. It’s quick off the mark, agile in traffi c, and fun to drive. The comfortable interior is equipped with eight air bags to protect occupants from collision injury. Electrically assisted power steering, StabiliTrak stability and traction control, and keyless entry and starting are standard. Leaping beyond hybrids and turbo-diesels, the Chevy Volt is the most effi cient vehicle on the market.
