One aspect that sets the Volt apart from any other car on the market is its long range for an electric vehicle, something not normally found in other electric vehicles like the Nissan Leaf. Since the Volt runs on an electric motor for the first 40 miles or so, consumers who have a short commute could probably skip refueling for long periods of time. The auto industry gave the Volt the honor of being named the 2011 North American Car of the Year.
Let’s take a closer look at the powertrain that powers this innovative vehicle. The car initially runs on an electric powertrain that switches to traditional gasoline mode after about forty miles. The electric powertrain provides 149 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the traditional engine is a 1.4-liter four-cylinder. Acceleration is smooth and instant, while the Volt provides an athletic, driver-focused ride. Charging the car is quite simple; just plug it into a regular 120 volt outlet. The Volt goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 9.2 seconds, which is pretty quick compared to average hybrid speeds. A home charging station is strongly recommended.
The interior is avant-garde and very modern; it is really worthy of a car of the future. The center console is touch sensitive rather than using traditional buttons and knobs. An LCD touch screen has been installed that controls the radio, the Bluetooth system and a hard drive for music storage. Another LCD screen displays information such as mileage and fuel consumption.
Engineers have included a large number of safety precautions and systems. Standard safety features include ABS brakes, traction control, and stability control. The airbags are in place and the vehicle comes with OnStar Service, which contacts emergency services during an accident. The Volt comes with a safety feature that automatically sounds a noise alert to warn pedestrians when the vehicle is in motion, since its electric motor is nearly inaudible.
A host of conveniences have been included for maximum driver and passenger safety, such as seventeen-inch alloy wheels, keyless ignition, a telescoping steering wheel, a voice-activated command system, and the ability to connect a music player to via USB. You can even install an app on your cell phone that allows you to charge the car at your convenience. There’s also a feedback system that encourages efficient driving through a ball on the screen that turns green when you’re doing well and yellow when you’re not. The trunk is slightly smaller at 10.6 cubic feet.
All in all, the Volt is a unique vehicle and the first to offer a combined traditional and electric powertrain along with a stunning interior that is sure to please anyone who enjoys technology. The base cost of the Volt is around $40,280 but there is a $7,500 tax credit available from the government, which should be a huge incentive for those interested in buying the car.