The 2011 Chevrolet Volt is a front-wheel-drive, four-passenger electric vehicle with extended-range capability. It uses electricity as its primary energy source and gasoline as its secondary energy source to power the vehicle. Energy is stored on board in a 16-kWh, “T”-shaped lithium-ion battery, which powers the electric drive unit. The Volt is powered only from electricity stored in its battery for a typical range of 25 - 50 miles depending on terrain, driving technique, temperature and battery age. When the Volt’s battery runs low, a gas engine seamlessly engages to extend the driving range. Based on EPA test procedures, Volt owners can expect an all electric battery range of 35 miles with extended range capability of 344 total miles. With a fully charged battery and a full tank of gas, the Volt can travel an estimated 379 miles.
Chevrolet estimates that drivers who commute 60 miles (96 km) a day (more than 21,000 miles per year) could save about 550 gallons (2,081 liters) of gasoline annually (compared to a similar size vehicle that averages 30 mpg).
The Chevrolet Volt operates differently from all other propulsion systems. An electric drive unit (electric motor) powers the car at all times and at all speeds. The Volt’s engine serves only to create electricity to power the vehicle when the battery runs low.
Depending on the drive cycle, the Chevrolet Volt will eliminate most initial engine starts and substantially reduce associated vehicle emissions.
Thanks to instantaneous torque, the Chevrolet Volt is a fun-to-drive car with quick acceleration.
At 10 cents per kilowatt hour, Chevrolet estimates that an electrically driven mile in a Volt will cost about one-sixth compared to a conventional gasoline vehicle. It is estimated that it will cost about two cents per mile to drive electrically vs. 12 cents using gasoline priced at $3.60 per gallon.
Most Chevrolet Volts are likely to be charged off-peak in the evening or overnight when electricity consumption is lower, potentially further reducing the cost of recharging.
Charging the Volt about once daily will consume less electric energy annually than the average home’s refrigerator and freezer units.
Charging the Volt's battery once per day from empty to full will cost about $1.50, or about the cost of a bottle of water.
