Chevy Volt the Future is here
The car of the future is here and its name is the Chevy Volt. While all the news is about its technology and impressive gas mileage, no review would be complete without highlighting the surprising number of creature comforts and safety features built into this new generation of automobile.
From the moment a driver steps into this hybrid and settles behind the wheel, he or she will realize this is no stripped-down Spartan mode of transportation. Environmental consciousness will not be mistaken for martyrdom. Pictures and video of the latest electric car reveal an upscale mid-sized automobile, quite a contrast to the stereotypic cramped hybrid.
Chevy Volt Specifications
The specifications for the new Chevy Volt are intriguing. Interior features include six USB ports, Bluetooth for specific compatible phones, three auxiliary power outlets, and energy-efficient Bose speaker system, an audio system that includes onboard navigation and XM Radio for news and entertainment, the ability to play back DVD and mp3 files, voice recognition, and more. Pictures of the interior reveal a dashboard surprisingly uncluttered even with all the electronics packed into this new hybrid. Interior colors are: Light Neutral, Jet Black and Green, and Jet Black – all with dark accents, and Jet Black with Ceramic White accents.
The exterior specs are well within “normal” for today’s automobiles. Painted or polished aluminum 17-inch wheels, a remote starter system, a rearview camera system for parking assistance, and a pedestrian-warning alert that sounds when the turn signals go on are either standard or available for an additional charge. Six colors are available in the first generation: White Diamond and Viridian Tricoat, Silver Ice and Cyber Gray Metallic, Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat and basic Black.
How is the Chevy Volt on Gas Mileage
Features are attractive to the tech-savvy driver, but the real reason people want the 2011 Chevy Volt is the enhanced fuel economy possible in an electric car. Powered by an inline 1.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline/electric engine with an automatic transmission, this vehicle is capable of 50 mpg combined highway/city mileage.
Battery Life
The battery at the heart of the power plant is assisted by a nearly silent onboard generator/gas-powered 80 horsepower engine. On electric power alone, the Volt has a range of 40 miles, or 60 kilometers. This range figure makes it an ideal vehicle for those short trips around town. Recharging is as simple as plugging it into a standard household electrical outlet.
The Release Date
The amenities and supreme gas mileage grabbed the attention of prospective owners and automotive journalists alike in 2010. A waiting list is to be expected. Debuting in the United States in December 2010, an anticipated release date in Canada is set for July 2011.
Availability
Chevrolet anticipates Volt availability in all 50 states by the end of the 2011 model year and limited availability in Canada during this period. With a rollout expected to increase slowly in tempo, a waiting list will be a thing of the past when more dealers will have more of the cars for sale.
How Much Does the Chevy Volt Cost?
How much does the Chevy Volt cost? That is one of the first questions asked after interested buyers step out the car in a state of awe. At present the MSRP begins at around $40,000. The price tag is higher as options are added. For those who find the for sale placard price tag a bit hefty, lease options are expected to run abut $350 per month.
With increased sales volume of its next generation, GM is working on dropping the “for sale” MSRP to a more affordable $20,000 and a lower lease price.
Final Thoughts on Chevy Volt
No review can ever provide a definitive feel for a vehicle. Interested prospective buyers need to watch a video or two, compare the specs and mpg, and keep watching the news a release date in his or her area. How much does the Chevy Volt cost? Balance the initial price tag against fuel mileage savings.