Detroit - General Motors (GM) has unveiled the production version of the Chevy Volt to marking its centennial celebratio. The car combines an electric motor with a combustion engine, enabling a zero-emission drive for up to 65 kilometres on one electric charge. After first making its appearance as a concept car at the North American car show in 2007, the production plug-in has been modified with a more aerodynamic shape. It is scheduled for US showrooms by late 2010 as a 2011 model.
GM is hoping to revive its fortunes with the revolutionary concept that features a 111 kW electric engine that taps its energy from a 16 kWh lithium-ion battery. It can be plugged into a standard 120v or 240v household outlet, giving it an electric-drive range of 65 kilometres.
The car can then be switched to petrol or E85 combustion engine drive, extending the range by another 500 kilometres. The top speed is listed at 160 kilometres per hour and delivers the equivalent of 150 hp.
The battery also receives its energy from brake regeneration. According to the manufacturer, the loading time for a 24v outlet is three hours and eight hours for the 120v outlet common in the U.S.
GM is keeping quiet on the price. There have been estimates of between 30,000 and 40,000 dollars (21,000 to 28,000 euros) with the average US driver saving between 1,500 and 2,000 dollars a year on fuel costs compared to a standard compact car.
A European version of the Chevy Volt is scheduled for release in 2011 under the Opel/Vauxhall label.
