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2012 Chevrolet Volt Hatchback

Summary

Provided by NADAguides.com

The first American production automobile featuring a plug-in hybrid, gasoline-electric powertrain, the sophomore year of the Chevrolet Volt comes after a whirlwind debut in late 2010. For 2012, the Chevrolet Volt aerodynamic exterior will continue to make a familiar presence on roadways as a four-door sedan. An innovative transportation choice; the 2012 Chevrolet Volt is primarily powered by a 111-kilowatt electric motor. Running on electrical power stored in a specialized lithium-ion battery pack, the 2012 Volt achieves up to 35 miles of driving. When electric power of the lithium-ion battery is exhausted, a 1.4 liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine continues to offer fuel-efficient driving to the front wheels. When electric and gasoline power is both utilized, the 2012 Chevrolet Volt can reach a maximum range of 379 miles. All 2012 Chevrolet Volts comes with standard features optimized to the electric vehicle including air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity and an audio system operating from a 7-inch touchscreen. For 2012, Chevy MyLink will debut on the Volt allowing access to media service Pandora. Sold in limited markets through early 2011, the Chevrolet Volt should be easier to purchase as the vehicle will be offered nationwide in 2012.

Benefits of Driving a 2012 Chevrolet Volt Hatchback

The Chevy Volt is unique in that is the first electric vehicle that successfully marries an electric motor and battery with a conventional engine that keep the vehicle powered up over longer trips. In doing so, GM has created an ultra-efficient vehicle that for many commuters, may require no gasoline at all.

What's new for 2012?

The Volt sees few changes for 2012. Most notably, it now features keyless entry on all four doors, functioning through chrome buttons mounted on the door handles. Inside, the Volt's display has been revised slightly for a better user interface. The main gauge display now displays navigation information, and kilowatt-hours used has been added to the center display stack. In addition, printing has been improved on the center stack and the gear selector readout is now much easier to read in low light thanks to revised backlighting. Drivers also now have the ability to disable the Volt's traction control.

Model Strengths

The latest in high-efficiency technology provides extreme fuel economy with few compromises in performance or features.

Model Review

The Chevy Volt is GM's first vehicle to use so-called 'extended range technology.' It carries a lithium-ion battery as its primary fuel source. The battery is charged by plugging the vehicle into a socket overnight, and will provide a GM-claimed range of 35 miles. Should the driver need to drive further, an on-board 1.4L 4-cylinder gasoline-powered engine automatically starts up to generate additional energy. A regenerative braking system provides additional charging whenever the vehicle slows.

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