LA Auto Show - 2011 Chevrolet Volt

Since the Volt concept debuted in 2007, industry competitors and cynical "car enthusiasts" have publicly doubted the viability of its unprecedented series-hybrid drivetrain. At the Los Angeles Auto Show, a fully-functioning Volt prototype is intended to win over detractors — and put competitors on notice.

Don't think of the Chevrolet Volt as a hybrid. Chevy would rather you call the charge-at-home Volt an electric vehicle, and think of its on-board gasoline engine as an emergency "range extender." When the Volt's battery pack depletes to 30% of its capacity, the 1.8-liter four-cylinder operates at peak efficiency to directly power the electric motor that drives the wheels. The engine isn't intended to recharge the battery pack, and at no stage does the gasoline motor directly drive the wheels. The future-forward driveline allows commuters to travel up to 40 miles on electric power alone. An eight-gallon fuel tank will power the Volt for the balance of its range.

The Volt's suspension has been calibrated to deliver sportier-than-average performance. The Volt is expected to carry a weight penalty of just 400 pounds when compared to its platform-mate, the Chevy Cruze. Inside, the Volt caters to its tech-savvy audience. High-resolution displays in the gauge cluster and center stack boot simultaneously at vehicle startup. Touch-sensitive controls in the center stack eliminate mechanical buttons altogether. Five different interior color combinations will be available, including a faux-anodized theme that coats door panels and interior textures in soft-touch dark red material.

First-generation technology tends to be expensive, but vehement early adopters are sometimes willing to pay a premium to drive a state-of-the-art vehicle. When the Volt reaches Chevy dealers in late 2010, GM expects an MSRP near $40,000 after federal alternative-fuel vehicle tax credits are applied.

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