 |
| Chevrolet Volt open for orders |
|
|
Dealers in the US have begun taking orders for the Chevrolet Volt, GM's hugely ambitious plug-in hybrid car.
The Volt is the industry's first electric vehicle with extended-range capability.
In North America, the manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price starts at $41,000 (about £26,300), with a federal discount available.
Depending on their tax situation, Volt owners can qualify for up to $7,500 (£5,000) in income tax credit, as well as other potential state and local tax credits, depending on location.
The Volt will be initially available to Chevrolet customers in California, New York, Michigan, Connecticut, Texas, New Jersey and the Washington D.C. area.
General Motors is providing an eight-year/100,000-mile battery pack warranty with the car for added peace of mind.
Customer deliveries of the Chevrolet Volt are scheduled to begin in launch markets late this year with initial production limited.
The Volt has a total driving range of about 340 miles and is powered by electricity at all times.
For up to the first 40 miles, the Volt drives petrol- and tailpipe-emissions-free using electricity stored in its 16-kWh lithium-ion battery.
When the Volt's battery runs low, a gas powered range-extending engine/generator kicks in to extend the driving range another 300 miles on a full tank.
It will come standard with a 120-volt charge cord that will provide owners with the ability to charge their Volt directly from a standard home electrical outlet.
However, a total of 4,400 Volt buyers in launch markets could be eligible for a free 240-volt charging station, including home installation.
The European version of the Volt, called the Vauxhall Ampera, is due to be launched here in the UK in 2012. |
