The 2011 Chevy Volt
GM makes an ambitious promise to reinvent the vehicle with the 2011 Chevy Volt. This plug-in hybrid or extended range electric vehicle is aimed to wean itself off gas with fuel estimates as high as 230-mpg. So if you drive like 75 percent of commuters who travel less than 40 miles a day, you'll remain in electric battery mode only with no need for the Volt's small gasoline engine generator to switch on and start drinking—or rather sipping—any fossil fuel.
The Volt plugs into any standard household outlet and costs about $.80 for a daily charge. It takes an average of 8 hours to fully charge or just 3 hours with a 240V outlet (the same type of outlet used for a typical blow dryer).
GM claims the Volt delivers 150 horsepower and travels from 0-60 in about nine seconds, instant torque intact. The performance of the Volt is reported as a sporty feel with assertive road traits. More important, the Volt meets its acceleration claims.
She's no eyesore or too futuristic for average tastes, either, with modern sedan styling along with sufficient interior room. Californians, look out, because you have first purchasing dibs on a Volt in late 2010.
