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Unveiled: Chevrolet Volt
GM centenary marked by introduction of first mass-produced car not driven by internal combustion engine.
Autocar staff  | http://www.autocar.co.uk  |  Posted September 17, 2008   Detroit, Mich.
The Volt will be the first mass-produced plug-in electric car with onboard recharging. (Photo: General Motors)

General Motors has taken the wraps off the most radical car in its recent history, the Chevrolet Volt, as part of the firm’s centenary celebrations today in Detroit.

The Volt is the first mass-produced car that isn’t driven by an internal combustion engine. The front wheels are driven by a 148hp electric motor, with 273 lb ft, powered by lithium-ion battery pack.

The battery gives a range of 40 miles on electric power only. Beyond that, a small gas engine (that can also run on ethanol) charges the battery but is not directly connected to the wheels.

The Volt can also be charged by plugging in to the mains supply, a 240v supply will recharge the battery in three hours, increasing to eight hours for North America’s 110v supply.
GM's centennial celebrations were highlighted by the Volt's unveiling. (GM photo)

GM maintains that the average American commuters’ daily journey is under 40 miles, so the Volt’s range will be adequate for most customers. Top speed is 100mph.

Underneath the Volt is GM’s new Delta platform, just launched in the new Chevrolet Cruze, which will also underpin the next Astra. The Volt uses a torsion beam rear suspension.

It goes on sale in the U.S. in 2010, and should arrive in Europe in 2011.

Dan Stevens/Autocar magazine.
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