One of the most fascinating and unique vehicles to make a splash in the automotive market is the Chevy Volt. The car industry awarded the Volt the honor of being named 2011 North American Car of the Year. It is its extended powertrain which sets this auto apart from the rest. It consists of an electric motor which converts to traditional gasoline mode after the first twenty to twenty five miles. Most electric cars are limited by the number of miles they can travel before a recharge while the Volt is much more versatile due to its backup engine.
The electric powertrain provides 149 hp and 273 lb feet of torque while the traditional engine is a 1.4 Liter V4. This auto handles the same as most traditional cars; acceleration is powerful and smooth while the Volt provides an engaging and sporty drive. Charging the car is a cinch; all that is needed is plugging it in a 120 volt electrical outlet. It will take around 10-12 hours in order to complete a full charge. The advantage that the Volt has over the Nissan Leaf is that the Volt switches over to gasoline mode after the initial 20-25 miles and as a result it doesn't have the 100 mile range limit that the Leaf has between charges. For great prices on Chevy cars visit Eau Claire GMC
Let's take a closer look at this auto's safety features. Standard features include ABS brakes, traction control and stability control. Air bags are in place and the vehicle comes with OnStar Service, which contacts emergency numbers in case of a serious accident. Another cool feature is that the Volt can alert pedestrians via a noise alert of its presence since its electric engine hardly makes any noise. For great prices on Chevy cars visit Eau Claire GMC
The interior is just as modern and cutting edge as you would expect. A LCD touch screen is in place which controls the radio, Bluetooth system and a hard drive for music storage. Another LCD screen showcases information such as mileage and fuel consumption. Chevrolet has even designed a mobile application that allows the driver to charge the car at their convenience. There is also a feedback system in place that encourages efficient driving. There is sufficient room to seat four adults. Cargo space is at 10.6 cubic feet. For great prices on Chevy cars visit Eau Claire Chevy
The Volt is truly unique because it boasts a traditional engine along with an electric powertrain. What it offers the consumer is a revolutionary powertrain and a futuristic and well-designed interior that matches its innovative powertrain. What sets it apart from the rest of the pack is its long driving range which most consumers expect from their vehicles. Since the car operates on an electric motor for the first 20-25 miles, consumers who have a short commute could probably skip fueling up for long periods of time. Pricing starts around forty thousand dollars; a hefty price but there is a $7500 tax credit available making the price in line with the Prius.
Written by Paris Angel - For low prices on GMC, Buick and Chevy cars visit For great prices on Chevy cars visit New Chevy Eau Claire