Skip advert
Advertisement

Chevrolet Volt: Electric Special: Chevrolet Volt

Plug-in hybrid due on sale in 2010

GM is further down the electric car route than BMW. We’ve already seen the Chevrolet Volt in concept form, but GM has now released teaser images of a production version, due to launch in 2010.

A plug-in hybrid, or ‘extended-range electric vehicle’ in GM-speak, it will be based on the same platform as the next Astra and will also be exported to Europe, where it will wear the Vauxhall or Opel badge. GM promises ‘a family resemblance to the concept’ and a 40-mile range on electricity alone following a seven-hour charge.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The Volt will also feature the 1.4-litre petrol engine from the Vauxhall Corsa to help boost the range, improve performance and power the generator that can also recharge the battery. Development engineer Alex Cattelan says it will reach 60mph in nine seconds and max out at 100mph.

Weight could be a problem, though, given the lithium-ion battery pack weighs 180kg, but it’s mounted low and centrally for ideal weight distribution and a low centre of gravity.

Extra Info

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Mercedes-AMG GT 43 2025 review – £100k four-cylinder lacks Affalterbach soul
Mercedes-AMG GT 43
Reviews

Mercedes-AMG GT 43 2025 review – £100k four-cylinder lacks Affalterbach soul

Affalterbach’s flagship GT range now begins with a four-cylinder, lifted straight from the A45 hot hatch. It might have reasonable performance on tap,…
15 Sep 2025
The man in charge of the Porsche 911 on the future of the world’s most iconic sports car
Porsche 911 Carrera T – side
News

The man in charge of the Porsche 911 on the future of the world’s most iconic sports car

We sat down with Porsche 911 model line director Michael Rösler to talk the future of the 911, from hybrids to manuals, to special models
16 Sep 2025
Mini Cooper and Cooper S (2001 - 2006) review – the 'new' Mini is now a classic
Mini Cooper S
Reviews

Mini Cooper and Cooper S (2001 - 2006) review – the 'new' Mini is now a classic

The ‘new’ Mini was perhaps motoring’s most anticipated sequel. BMW didn’t get it wrong – quite the opposite, as it transpired
11 Sep 2025